There’s an excitement about the clash with the Highlanders, renowned for their attacking flair, and the Blues with the best defensive record in this competition. Added to that is that six of the last 10 clashes between the two sides has been decided by seven points or less.
The Highlanders have won six of those 10 games although the Blues have won four of their last five contests.
Blues Coach Leon MacDonald and All Black Hoskins Sotutu are both hoping Blues region fans head to Eden Park on Saturday.
“We are back to playing some good footy, and to make the Blues region proud and keen to support us is pretty special to the boys,” said Sotutu. “So come along and get around us. Get-Up the boys. Let’s win the title.”
MacDonald said his side were disappointed with their Super Rugby Aotearoa finish.
“We were one point away from making a final and didn’t get there through our own form which was not quite where it should be in a tough competition. To be able to turn around, regroup and set ourselves up to be really consistent in our performances has given us this opportunity for the final,” said MacDonald.
“There are guys who have been part of this club for a long time and desperately keen to play in a Super final so it is a special moment for us.
“And there are two teams there who genuinely feel they can win a final. We are stoked about our opportunity and keen to grab it with two hands.
“A big crowd would be amazing for the club. We missed out on a big game – we had a big crowd booked for the Crusaders final round robin game last year and missed that. Covid has hit us pretty hard so the opportunity of a home final is a welcome addition for the club and our fans.
“Hopefully we get a big crowd and we can play some good rugby and make our region proud.”
The game kicks off at 7.05pm with a special offer of two adults General Admission seats for $40 with up to eight children free with travel on event buses and trains included. Get your TICKETS HERE.