Northland name strong squad for 2017

Northland have named a strong 33-man squad as they look to make a mark on the Mitre 10 Cup in 2017.

Derren Witcombe returns to coach the side that will be desperate to improve on the last two provincial campaigns.

The squad has a good mix of both experience and youth.

Three debutants have been selected in 18-year-old midfielder Scott Gregory, Kamo second five Blake Hohaia and Waipu prop Ropate Rinakama.

Joining them are new signings centre are Jack Goodhue as well as locks Tim Bond and Murray Douglas, who all add experience.

Northland Mitre 10 Cup squad 

Backs

Fullbacks:
Solomon Alaimalo (Otamatea), Matt Wright (Wellsford)
Wings:
Jone Macilai (Awanui)
Utilities:
Jordan Hyland (Wellsford), Rene Ranger (Wellsford)
Midfielders:
Troy Gilbert (OBM), Jack Goodhue (United Kawakawa), Scott Gregory (Hikurangi), Blake Hohaia (Kamo), Tamati Tua (Hikurangi)
First Fives:
Peter Breen (OBM), Dan Hawkins (Otamatea)
Halfbacks:
Malcolm MacLeod (Mid Northern), Matty Markwick (OBM), Sam Nock (Kerikeri)

Forwards

Loose Forwards:
Michael Faleafa (Hikurangi), Matt Matich (Western Sharks), Jaycob Matiu (Hora Hora), Dan Pryor (OBM), Kara Pryor (OBM), Jack Ram (Kerikeri)
Locks:
Tim Bond (Hikurangi), Murray Douglas (Awanui), Josh Goodhue (Kamo), Josh Larsen (Mid Northern)
Props:
Chris Apoua (Mid Northern), Phil Kite (OBM), Ropate Rinakama (Waipu), Howard Sililoto (OBM), Namatahi Waa (Hikurangi)
Hookers:
Matt Moulds (Otamatea), Jordan Olsen (Mid Northern), Ross Wright (Wellsford)