The Ranfurly Shield holders Wellington are hoping a bumper crowd will get behind them for tomorrow night's defence against a Canterbury side boasting a number of All Black stars including Richie McCaw, Brad Thorn and Daniel Carter.
The Lions have played to disappointing crowds so far this season, but one of Wellington's All Blacks Corey Jane says they're hoping home fans will rise to the big occasion.
Jane reckons the poor Wellington weather's to blame for the low crowd attendances so far but he's hoping a big game against the Air New Zealand Cup champions with the old log on the line will bring out the Lions fans.
Southland went to the top of the provincial championship at the start of round five with a 24-22 win over North Harbour in Albany.
