ARROWTOWN has a huge game this weekend against Alexandra and, after some blips along the way, looks to have finally hit its straps.
Arrowtown coach Drew Carmody is confident his side can tip over one of the form teams in the competition if it fronts up.
''They taught us a thing or two last time. We don't want to head into the semis with two home losses,'' he said.
Arrowtown lost 15-10 to competition leader Maniototo last weekend but kept the Ranfurly-based side tryless.
Making the challenge tougher at Jack Reid Park this weekend is the loss of former captain and Southland representative Ben Chisholm.
The No 8 fractured his ankle in the early stages of the match last weekend and had surgery on Sunday.
''It's pretty gutting to lose Ben. He's a big part of our team,'' Carmody said.
''While we'll miss him, we do have good cover and we'll be able to kick on without him.''
Carmody said his forward pack would be a key.
''All of our forward pack fronts up every week and they just love getting in there and smashing people and playing hard every week.''
Props George Ravula and Matt Flower along with loosie Eddie Sefo would be key players for Arrowtown, he said.
Carmody also praised the efforts this season of Uruguayan halfback Jose Asuaga.
''Obviously he's having a great year and he's become a fan favourite.''
Carmody said while it had been a slower start to the year than in previous years, the side was starting to come together.
''Probably the first month or first six weeks of the season were really slow. We still haven't got to where we want.''
The match is scheduled for a 2.30pm start but may be played earlier so players can get to the Highlanders' playoff match against the Chiefs.
