HALSWELL HORNETS 2016 SEASON PREVIEW

After taking out the premiership in 2014, the Hornets plummeted to second-last with just three wins last season. But the rebuilding club is confident of rediscovering its competitive edge in 2016.

Coach: Rob Faalilo

Last season: 7th (won 3, lost 11)

Pre-season: “It’s been pretty good. We’ve had really good numbers compared to last year. We’ve got a reasonably young squad with a few new faces.”

Key gains: Ricky Te Ao (Hornby)

Key losses: Jesse Rogers (Hornby), Willie Tafua (Lincoln rugby), Daniel Moevao (Papanui), Tanu Suavine (Papanui)

2016 squad: “We’ve only had the one player that’s come over from Hornby (Ricky Te Ao), and about five 18-year-olds come up Halswell (juniors). In the front-row we’ve got (Phil) Maireroa. Brad Austin will captain the side. Jamie Nuttridge is a good young half and we’ve got Jordan Te Aho as well.”

Goals: “We’re still in a development phase, but it’s a young side that’s got some potential and if we can get the combinations playing well…we’ll be looking to try and make the top four.”

Round 1: v Riccarton Knights @ Crosbie Park 1, Saturday 2:30pm – “At the moment we’re injury-free. We’re coming up against a tough side, so we’ll be looking to try and combat that. It’s going to be a tough one for us and a good hit-out.”