Marko the Mako says...
The Golden Edge Tasman Makos completed their short turnaround week with two wins, against Southland in Invercargill by 38 – 14 and against Wellington in Wellington four days later by 42 – 20.
The win against Wellington was a historic one being the first ever win for a Nelson, Marlborough or Tasman team in over 100 years of trying.
Firstly however, the Makos needed to “get back on the horse” after their hiccup against Taranaki. Southland in Invercargill is never an easy proposition given their hard-nosed pride in forward play. The Makos forward pack were outstanding as they set about dominating the set pieces and laying the foundation for an excellent win.
Despite the quick turnaround, the Makos were again quite tremendous for long periods with wonderful attack play to put the Wellington Lions to the sword.
Against Southland loosehead prop Tim Perry was selected by his team mates as both Makoman and Ironman for his all-round contribution and excellent defence.
Jimmy Cowan made his return to his old home town and was given plenty of “encouragement”, first when he scored against them and again when he was sin binned. It was nice to see everyone greeting him warmly at the after-match.
Tasman 38 (James Lowe 2, Pete Samu, Jimmy Cowan, Marty Banks tries; Banks 5 con, 1 pen) v Southland 14 (Dillan Halaholo, Billy Fukofuka tries; Lima Sopoaga 1 con, Scott Eade 1 con). HT: 24-7.
It would be no surprise to anyone who watched the Wellington match that ever-green lock Alex Ainley was named by his team mates and coaches as both Makoman and Ironman for his man of the match performance. “Baxter” just keeps getting better and wouldn’t look out of place in a Super team. Guys like him and Brad Thorn are the diesel in the engine room.
Tasman 42 (James Lowe 2, Robbie Malneek, Alex Ainley, Pete Samu tries; Marty Banks 4 con, 3 pen) v Wellington 20 (Tolu Fahamokioa, Erix Sione tries; Willie Ripia 2 pen, 2 con). HT: 21-6.
The Makos next home game is this Sunday at Trafalgar Park, Nelson against Otago at 2.35pm. This is the Farmlands Family Day and kids big and small are encouraged to come in their favourite animal onesie. There will be bouncy castles for the kids, one for the “littlies” and another for the bigger kids.
Fins Up, Marko
