Wanganui rugby finalists missing key players | Manawatu-Wanganui Sport | Surfing, Rugby, Soccer, Football, Cricket in Manawatu-Wanganui

Both Kaierau and Marist will have to make do without key personnel in Saturday's Wanganui premier rugby final.

Marist has lost their No 1 lock Sam Madams while No 8 Lasa Ulukuta will not only miss the final, but the entire Heartland season as well.

Ulukuta, who was helped off in the Ranfurly Shield challenge two weeks ago, has undergone knee surgery, while Madams will shortly have an operation to repair damaged knee ligaments.

"He's very gutted. He faces about six months of recuperation after the operation," said Marist coach Karl Hoskin.

"He's got a big heart, and I'm sure he'll be back as good as new."

 Madams' place has been taken by fast-improving Bradley Graham, who was player of the match in the semifinal win over Ruapehu.

"Bradley's come a long way in a short time," said Hoskin, who has no other injury concerns.

Hoskin says he wants his side to attack Kaierau out wide, possibly in a bid to stay out of a forward confrontation where Kaierau could have an edge.

Kaierau coach Red Morris said Ulukuta, who may need a second operation, was paying the price for failing to look after his body on the field.

"It's a shame because Lasa has been in great form all season. But he'll have a good rest over summer and come back for next winter," Morris said.

In Ulukuta's absence, veteran Nemia Adrole will play No 8.

Both coaches will name their teams after training tonight.