“I love the culture, but can’t eat much of the food in season” Cameron Howieson.
This weekend will see the second installment to the rivalry between Auckland FC and Wellington Phoenix in this year’s A League season.
The Auckland side who are in their first year of the tournament, are undefeated and currently top the table including a win over their Wellington counterparts earlier in the season.
For the Phoenix, after a tough start the side have clawed back their way to second place in the table behind Auckland FC.
Auckland FC Chief executive Nick Becker is anticipating plenty of off-field chat between the respective fan bases.
“We welcome them with open arms. Expect the Auckland fans to get stuck in as they do, but I think it’s going to be a brilliant atmosphere, a great friendly rivalry, and it’s going to be a fantastic match.”
Midfielder for Auckland Cameron Howieson who is of Samoan heritage credits the support of their fan base to their success.
“Four games in and four wins which is obviously an amazing start. And we want to continue run and work hard during the week and take that into the game this weekend” he said.
“Honestly it’s like having a 12th man out with us on the pitch” Howieson said when speaking on the impact of their fans.
The 29 year old who has made a name for himself in the New Zealand football scene has been enjoying his time with the club and amongst his teammates.
Culture is something he believes plays a big role with their side, and is also something he embraces well too with his Samoan culture.
“My mum is Samoan and I have been lucky enough to get over there a couple of times and experience the lifestyle and what it’s like”
“It’s an eye opener to see how tradition is done over there. I love the culture, but can’t eat much of the food in season, but I’m always having a good time with the family’
Heading into their second clash with their rivals Phoenix, Howieson says that if they stick to their strengths and play well, the result will pull through for them.
And with his experience, he hopes he can input it towards the team’s efforts.
“Always have to stay ready because you don’t know when your chance is going to pop up. It’s making sure I am ready to go when I am called upon”
