Whalers Prepare for Round 1

AKAROA — The Whalers are preparing to welcome newcomers Hibiscus Coast Heat to Akaroa this Saturday for round one of the WFR Premiership.

When asked about the opposition, backs coach Andrew McCormick remained focused on his own squad."We're not concerned with the Heat," McCormick said. "We have a game plan. We're going to play to our strengths, and if we can execute that plan, we should be coming away with a win.

" The match marks a major milestone for Whalers veteran Isaac Ross, who makes his 25th start for the club.

Veteran prop Nepo Laulala also returns to the lineup for his 15th start.