A Word with...Shane Beyers | Canterbury Sport | Surfing, Rugby, Soccer, Football, Cricket in Canterbury

Canterbury Bulls skipper SHANE BEYERS talks to Nick Tolerton before his team's opening home game at Rugby League Park on Sunday

# Not an ideal start, Shane. What went wrong at Waitakere last week?

We just put it down to first game jitters. The young boys might have been overawed. If we held the ball a bit more we could have been in the contest, but we turned over too much ball easily.

# You'll be expecting much better at home against Waicoa Bay Stallions on Sunday?

Yes. They're usually quite a physical side and like to mix it up and be confrontational in the middle. We haven't lost to them, though.

# So what's the '07 prospects for the Bulls under new coach Brent Stuart?

We hope to make the play-offs ? anything less and we'll be disappointed. As long as we can win all or 90% of our home games and a few away, we'll be there or thereabouts.

# What's the strengths of this year's side?

We're quite nippy and quick. Getting Peter Asi back from Oz adds size and power to the pack, and Nathan Cleaver, back from the Dirty Tigers, had a good game last week.

# Who'll win tonight's test?

I'd like to say the Kiwis, but?

# What's impressed you in the NRL this year?

The pace of the game. It looks like it's increased yet again.

# And anything you don't like?

Corey Lawrie (ex-Bull) has only had one game so far.

# Who's going to win it this year?

The Storm.

# You're a Wests Tigers fan ? how will they go?

They'll sneak in somewhere. They won one last weekend!

# And the Warriors?

They'll make the top eight, I reckon. Could be top four.

# And Christchurch premiers?

The mighty Hornets are going to take it out.

# How's your mate Corey getting on at the Warriors?

He got his first game off the bench against the Cowboys last weekend. I thought he went really well. He put his hand up and did the work, and I hope Ivan Cleary has faith in him. But Corey still can't play golf ? his temper gets the better of him. Last time we played he walked off on the 10th hole ?he reckoned it was too cold. We had a $20 bet and I still haven't seen the money. And he's a professional sportsman! But he's back this week and put a challenge out for a rematch. # With a century of matches behind you for the Bulls, I guess you're a father figure to the kids in the team?

No! Just another player.

# What's your all-time best movie?

A toss up between Karate Kid and Zoolander.

# Worst?

Sound of Music. It was terrible.

# Favourite TV programme?

Not too sure. Shortland Street? I don't watch much.

# What do you switch off?

I'm getting sick of those reality ones.

# Favourite meal?

Roast lamb.

# Favourite spot for dining out?

The Lone Star.

# Who's the Bulls most eligible bachelor?

Ross Turi. He's a Fabio-lookalike. Dresses well and looks after himself.