Blues team named to face Moana Pasifika

The Blues have named a largely unchanged starting line-up for Saturday’s Super Rugby Pacific clash with Moana Pasifika at Eden Park. 
 
The game is the first of a double-header, with kickoff at 4.35pm before the nib Blues host Matatū in the Super Rugby Aupiki final at 7.05pm. 
 
Hooker Ricky Riccitelli returns from injury to join the starting side, while prop Angus Ta’avao slots in to replace Marcel Renata, who has been ruled out with a calf injury. 
 
It will be a special match for second five AJ Lam who is set to notch up his 50th Super Rugby appearance. 
 
Coming off a gritty win over the Hurricanes in Round 8, the Blues are looking to keep their momentum rolling against Moana Pasifika. 
 
“Moana is a big game for us and we will work hard and prepare the same way as we do every week,” said coach Vern Cotter. 
 
“Last week’s win was a real team effort. We made improvements in some key areas and are expecting an even better performance this weekend. We know we can still improve a lot and that’s exciting. 
 
“We’re looking forward to the challenge on Saturday in front of our home fans who always give us a big lift. We’re excited to see them out in force again to support the boys and then our women in the Aupiki final.” 
 
In addition to the on-field action this Saturday, game day features a Pacific Festival on the Eden Park Outer Oval with food, market stalls, community activities and live performances. 
 
Entry to the festival is free from 10am - 3pm, ahead of the Blues vs Moana Pasifika at 4.35pm and the Super Rugby Aupiki final between nib Blues and Matatū at 7.05pm. 
 
Blues Team, Round 9 

1. Joshua Fusitu’a (28) 
2. Ricky Riccitelli (42) 
3. Angus Ta’avao (73) 
4. Patrick Tuipulotu (c) (115) 
5. Josh Beehre (18) 
6. Anton Segner (29) 
7. Dalton Papali’i (89) 
8. Hoskins Sotutu (70) 
9. Finlay Christie (61) 
10. Beauden Barrett (35) 
11. Caleb Clarke (70) 
12. AJ Lam (49) 
13. Rieko Ioane (119) 
14. Mark Tele’a (74) 
15. Corey Evans (20) 
 
Reserves: 16. Kurt Eklund (66), 17. Mason Tupaea (2), 18. PJ Sheck (3), 19. Cam Christie (4), 20. Adrian Choat (47), 21. Taufa Funaki (28), 22. Harry Plummer (81), 23.Stephen Perofeta (71). 
 
Players not considered due to injury: Marcel Renata (calf), Zarn Sullivan (foot), Reon Paul (shoulder), Ofa Tu’ungafasi (neck, season), Sam Darry (shoulder, season).