The Wellington Lions rugby coach Jamie Joseph is upbeat about tomorrow night's Ranfurly Shield defence against Canterbury despite the absence of their injured All Blacks Neemia Tialata, Piri Weepu and Tamati Ellison.
But Joseph has conceded favouritism to the challengers whose side includes Richie McCaw, Brad Thorn and Daniel Carter.
Wellington will be led by Rodney So'oialo.
