Southland has been tenacious on defence but you cannot win games camped inside your own 22.
The Stags host North Harbour in Invercargill tomorrow and establishing some parity up front has been a focus for the squad, coach Dave Hewett says.
There has also been some honest reflection concerning the performance against Otago in the Ranfurly Shield challenge.
"We didn't really fire a shot against Otago which was disappointing from our point of view," Hewett said.
"The guys all know that. They know it was a step backwards from the previous week.
"There have been some strong conversations had and some good reactions from the boys."
Hewett expects North Harbour will look to target Southland's pack before looking out wide for scoring opportunities.
"It is the same pretty much every week for us. We've got to be good all across the park and can't afford any lapses. That is the mindset we've got to bring to the game.
"We have to keep working and working hard. As soon as we slacken up they will pounce.
"We'd liked to have a bit more ball to play with. We've shown when we do have the ball ... we can light things up. We just need a bit more of the ball."
Rugged flanker Phil Halder took a head knock during the Shield challenge and has been ruled out.
His absence will be felt. He has been the best-performed Southland player this season.
His spot in the starting XV has been taken by Matt James, while former Otago Boys' High School loose forward Taine Te Whata will provide cover from the bench. He is on debut.
Centre Javaan Fa'amoe-Ioane, who has replaced Moses Faletolu as the starting centre, will be making his debut as well.
Ben Fotheringham will start at lock in place of Ray Tatafu and Joe Walsh comes in for injured loosehead prop Ethan de Groot.
Powerful No8 Bill Fukofuka will be making his 50th appearance for the Stags.
"I think he started in 2014, so it has been a while coming for him," Hewett said.
"He wants to improve on his performance from last week, as well.
"He freely admits and came to us to say his performance was not good enough ... so this is an opportunity for him."
Mitre 10 Cup
Southland v North Harbour
Invercargill, tomorrow, 4.35pm
Southland: Josh Moorby, Isaac Te Tamaki, Javaan Fa’amoe-Ioane, Ray Nu’u, Lausi’i Taliauli, Marty McKenzie, Logan Crowley, Bill Fukofuka, Matt James, Charles Alaimalo, Mike McKee, Ben Fotheringham, Morgan Mitchell, Flynn Thomas, Joe Walsh. Reserves: Greg Pleasants-Tate, Shaun Stodart, Howard Sililoto, Ray Tatafu, Taine Te Whata (debut), Jay Renton, Scott Eade, Moses Faletolu.