Tasman go on the offensive

Tasman's fight for survival continues on Monday when they meet with the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU).

Although the NZRU wants to demote four of the 14 Air New Zealand Cup teams to the new Division One, Tasman, which are among those being sized up for the executioner's block, refuse to go quietly.

Tasman chairman Nick Patterson, who along with Peter Barr will meet NZRU chief executive Steve Tew and two directors, questions whether the NZRU, which is desperate to restructure competitions and reduce losses, will save money from the revamp.

Patterson said the meeting would enable Tasman to present their "unique" case to the NZRU; that includes them noting they were the only union required to fund a complete stadium development programme in Blenheim.

After a shocking run of financial losses since their inception in 2006, Tasman will make a small profit this season.

"Certainly that (the new stadium) put us under real financial pressure in the early years," Patterson said.

He believes if the NZRU cannot convince two Heartland unions to enter Division One they will have to stick with the 14-team competition.

"That is absolutely critical because if there is nobody, then Steve Tew has said they don't have a Plan B. Then they will have to give seriously consideration to not changing it."

Tasman's players have indicated they are keen to play for the province next year if they remain in the top competition. Eight already have contracts from other unions in front of them in case the union is demoted. Fairfax