Pride intact despite defeat [Joe Wheeler]
Finals footy sometimes comes down to just the bounce of the ball and that's how it felt on Saturday night.
It came down to moments and the bounce of the ball didn't go our way. We played some really good rugby in that game, but were not quite good enough.
Taranaki's home advantage was pretty crucial too. It was a great atmosphere but not something we had focused on. It wasn't about the occasion - it was about playing a solid game of rugby.
We did that but on reflection, when you play in front of a home crowd it's easier to find that extra percentage.
There was a huge amount of disappointment in the changing rooms afterwards and it was pretty sombre and quiet. But once we managed to get our heads around it, we celebrated the year that we've had.
On reflection, I think we can be really proud of what we achieved. We're proud of how we've grown as a team and as a group of men this year and if we can carry on next year with what we've done, we'll be in a good space.
Personally, I'm a bit heartbroken that I'm not in Japan with the New Zealand Maori team. I went up to Auckland on Sunday to meet with the team and had an MRI on my knee, which confirmed I have a grade two medial tear that ruled me out of the tour.
Shane Christie had already pulled out due to injury and Liam Squire got ruled out by injury too. It was a huge honour to be selected for the team and I'm gutted I couldn't contribute this year.
Since I was in Auckland I missed the annual season-ending nude run for guys who hadn't scored all season on Sunday at Trafalgar Park. Given the try-scoring season we've had, there can't have been too many guys who had to do it. It's not a race - just a run the length of the park- but you don't want to be out there too long! I also missed the welcome home from fans at Nelson airport that the guys told me was pretty cool. Even though we didn't bring home the trophy they still got a very warm welcome.
The guys had a couple of days of celebration and on Wednesday we reviewed and wrapped up the season. I've got about a month's break before pre-season training for the Highlanders starts, so after a week away with Courtney in Australia, I'll be chilling in Dunedin and getting some golf in.
As for next season, I don't know any details but there might be a bit of a change in the makeup of the Makos. Some guys might head off-shore but we've got pretty good stability. I haven't decided what I'm doing yet, but if I'm in New Zealand I'll be back for Tasman.
I want to say thank-you to all our supporters this year - all the fans and sponsors. It's been a great ride and the whole team's loved every minute of it. It's been a special year and a privilege to be part of it. Keep it on and keep it long.
