By John Donnachie 
asbpremiership.co.nz

CHRISTCHURCH - For some players going back to an old club can be a daunting prospect. But Hawke's Bay defender Bill Robertson can't wait to lock horns with his old Canterbury United teammates this weekend.

The 26-year-old  Englishman described this Sunday's match-up in Christchurch as the 'tie of the round'.

“I'm really looking forward to it. It is early in the season, but both teams are showing signs of form and are full of confidence.”

Due to a serious injury he sustained last season against Waikato FC, Robertson was unavailable the last time Hawke's Bay faced Canterbury in Christchurch. But the former United captain has since made a gutsy recovery from what was an horrific leg break.  He expects no favours from his old teammates or the United faithful.

“I'm sure the tackles will be flying in from the start. They know how I play, and I know how guys like (Andy) Pitman and (Dan)Terris play, so it should be entertaining. I'm sure come the end of the match we will all have a beer and all will be forgotten.  I had a good couple of years down there. All the lads are spot on, I have a lot of time for them. It is always nice to come down again.”

He said he was not sure what to expect from the home supporters. “Hopefully they won't want to boo me as I always had a great relationship with them.”

Canterbury captain Dan Terris said Robertson and him had exchanged a few texts during the week. “Yeh we had a joke about things, it is a shame he is playing for the other side but that is how it is.”

Terris paid tribute to his former Dragons teammate. He said Robertson was a “good leader and someone who always gave a 100 percent”. His combative style made him popular with the Canterbury fans.

As for the game itself, Canterbury have one doubt. Ryan Faichnie pulled up in training on Thursday with a knock. Otherwise, coach Keith Braithwaite reported a clean bill of health.

Captain Dan Terris said it was important that Canterbury maintained their early season  momentum.

“Of course we want to keep winning. Our aim is to make Linfield Park a fortress this season.” 

Hawke's Bay meanwhile welcome back All White Cole Peverley, but it is not known whether key midfielder Jarrod Smith will make the journey south. Full back Phil Doran is suspended following his sending off last week.

The match kicks off at 2pm on Sunday.