Wilson backs Highlanders for title

 

Wilson, who played 72 games for the Highlanders, said he had been really impressed by the performance of the Highlanders this season, including their past two victories.

 

"Just the consistency of their performances and the way they have played the game has been really impressive," he said.

 

"Their last two wins have been very encouraging and just the clinical way they have dealt with their opposition. Against the Chiefs in Invercargill it was just a mature team display while against, which was admittedly a Blues development team, they just did what they had to do.

 

"It was two difficult games played in difficult conditions but they have managed to keep the momentum of the season going."

 

Wilson said there is a real chance of the Highlanders going all the way to a maiden Super Rugby title.

 

"Just the experience they gained last year when they made the play-offs. That is going to be a huge help. The fact they have been there before will make a massive difference to the side.

 

"I know the coaching staff and they will be well prepared, will have worked hard on a plan. They are going to find it tough to just try and grind out a win.

 

"So I hope and I'm sure they will just keep up their attacking intent."

 

Wilson said looking back at the 1999 final – the only other time the Highlanders have hosted a play-off game – it was a marvellous occasion.

 

"But it was different circumstances than this week's game. We had to travel a long way. Had to come all the way back from Africa.

 

"The Highlanders though are safely now back in Dunedin. They have had a wonderful season and will think they have put themselves in a wonderful position.

 

"The big thing is whether they will be able to handle the occasion. They are up against a very good Chiefs side but they [Chiefs] have probably limped a little bit into the play-offs."

 

Wilson said keeping emotions in check was about having a clear game plan and sticking to the task at hand.

 

"People say you should treat it like another game. But the reality is, it is not just another game … you've got to have really good clarity around the game plan.

 

"Work hard for the first 20 minutes and then take stock and look at where the game is. Last year's experience will really serve them well."

 

Wilson is expecting a full house at the Forsyth Barr Stadium and said the team and a big crowd at the stadium delivered a full package.

 

"The side has to feed off the big crowd. The great thing about the stadium and the big crowd is they complement each other. They have that attacking mindset which is really helped by the noise of the crowd."

 

Wilson will be at the stadium on Saturday and said he was really looking forward to the match.

 

"It is a long season, Super Rugby, and it is nice to be at finals time. The reality is the best teams are there and ready to play."