Otago eyeing sensational return to the top

By: Guy Heveldt | Rugby News | Friday October 26 2012 8:55

Six months after almost being no more, Otago rugby is eyeing a sensational return to the top.

In March Otago had to be bailed out by the council and the New Zealand Rugby Union after digging itself into serious debt.

Now they're in tonight's final of the ITM Cup Championship against Counties Manukau and eyeing promotion to the Premiership.

Coach Tony Brown says they desperately need some pride back.

"This time last year this union was looking pretty rough and just being able to start from scratch and fit the players who want it, use local players, club players and still being able to prove that we're good enough to get to this stage has been pretty awesome for us."

Brown says their D-day has dawned.

"It'll be massive and everyone that is in that bottom division wants to get up and I'm sure Counties are the same, it's going to be a pretty good battle but I think we're good enough if we play well enough."

Tony Brown says Counties Manukau will be the same though, having been near the top of New Zealand rugby in the 1990s.

Otago welcomes back All Blacks Tamati Ellison, Adam Thomson and Ben Smith for the match.

Photo: Photosport

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