01-08-2025
Different jersey, same focus for Stag Day victor
Charlie Powell has a perfect record on Stag Day.
Granted, he did play for Southland last season and helped them wrestle the Donald Stuart Memorial Trophy off Otago on Southland rugby's biggest day of the year.
He plans to be part of the heist again — but this time to bring it back to Dunedin.
The 25-year-old Englishman has switched allegiances.
He loved his time in Southland, but the utility back has signed with Otago and has a unique insight into how much the game means to Southlanders.
"I was lucky to get a Stag Day last year. It was awesome and I'm trying to get a win again this year," he said.
"It's a massive day. The Southland supporters are probably the best I've ever experienced, so I know a little bit what to expect, but it's good.
"I'm very excited."
Yeah, Powell might not get such a warm reception now that he is in blue and gold rather than maroon.
The rivalry has always been strong, but the Stag Day promotion has put more of a spotlight on the traditional fixture.
The Southland fans bring enormous passion and they have been loyal through some very lean years.
Powell said the best way to counter the fans' passion tomorrow afternoon was to remain focused.
"I think for us as players, we're just focused on doing our roles on the pitch.
"I've heard very good things about the Otago supporters too, so I think it'll be a pretty hostile environment."
Powell grew up in Bristol and spent about seven years signed with the Bristol Bears. He did not always play and spent a year on loan to the Jersey Reds.
When the chance to play for the Stags came up, he jumped at it.
It was an opportunity to see some of the world and play rugby at a high level.
He had a stint with the Manly Marlins in the Shute Shield this year, but has returned to New Zealand.
"I'm not going to hide the fact that I'd absolutely love to play Super Rugby. I want to play the highest level I can play. I'm naturally pretty competitive.
"For me, it's just chasing the highest level of rugby I can play. Chasing the best version and quality I can bring myself."
The chasing starts again tomorrow.
Veteran utility back Scott Gregory has been named on the left wing for Southland and Powell is on the right for Otago.
Otago livewire Jona Nareki has been given the assignment to mark Southland speedster Michael Manson on the other wing.
Those two are specialist wingers, whereas Powell and Gregory can play in the centres as well.
The versatility tag is a mixed blessing. It can often mean a spot on the bench to cover several positions.
But Powell is keen to embrace his opportunity on the right wing.
Josh Whaanga is sidelined for at least two more weeks, so Powell will get first dibs at the No14.
"I see it [my versatility] as a strength. For me, when I'm on the wing, I know what I want from my 13.
"I've got a better appreciation when I'm on the wing of what the 13 wants to do as well. It's definitely rounded my game off nicely."
While Powell will do his best, the game might be decided at the breakdown.
The Stags have a quality loose forward trio of Semisi Tupou-Ta'eiloa, Sean Withy and Sam Fischli, who played for Otago last year.
Otago have All Blacks No 8 Christian Lio-Willie in their loose forward mix and he will be supported by Harry Taylor and Will Stodart.
Harry will be playing against his younger brother Jack Taylor again, who will start at hooker. Little brother has the bragging rights.
