PIONEERS NAME POWERFUL LINEUP FOR CRUCIAL BORDEAUX CLASH

AKAROA – The Pioneers travel away this week to take on Bordeaux in France, naming a boosted lineup for the crucial northern hemisphere clash.French international Romain Ntamack returns to the starting lineup at first-five. Playing in familiar territory, Ntamack is expected to navigate the local conditions with ease.He is joined in the starting XV by powerhouse prop Jayden Baxendale. Baxendale returns to action in blistering form, having crossed for two tries in each of his last two starts.Pioneers Head Coach Buddha Johnston warned against complacency despite the opposition's current standing."Even though Bordeaux are in ninth place, we have to take them seriously at home," Johnston said. "It is tough to play in France anytime you travel here."In-form loose forward Masana Bari Samo is expected to lead the charge once again from openside flanker. His performance at the breakdown will be crucial as the Pioneers push to secure a vital playoff spot.