Reading Frenzy: Waikato result & What's Up Next
The Tasman Makos began their 2016 Mitre 10 Cup Premiership campaign with a hard fought victory over a very good Waikato team on Sunday in Blenheim.
LINKS:
Tasman steal last gasp win over Waikato
Waikato match day photos by Shuttersport.co.nz
A good crowd on a cold late afternoon enjoyed a festive atmosphere at Lansdowne Park, enhanced with the presence of corporate marquees lining the northern embankment and SKY replays on the TRU’s mobile community big screen. Over 600 Kids took advantage of the Union’s Kids Eat Free promotion and had a great time in the ground and on the surrounding fields.
As for the rugby, Tasman had first use of a stiff north easterly but ended up behind at half-time 9 – 10, Waikato scoring the only try of the half.
Tasman became more cohesive in the second half a scored 2 tries to none, a lovely support try to live wire half back Finlay Christie and a pick and drive effort to the team’s elder statesman, second rower Alex Ainley.
Mitchell Hunt at first-five kept the scoreboard ticking over with 4 penalties and a conversion.
It was a relieved head coach when Leon Macdonald fronted the press at full time. "We will take that win any day," he said. "That's a pretty strong Waikato team so I am rapt to get the four points. I think the boys showed plenty of passion and hung in there, while the skipper [Shane Christie] led really well from the front and our defense was generally very good, with a lot of aggression and pressure at the breakdown."
In team awards, Finlay Christie was voted as both Makoman by the coaches and the Players’ player, while number 8 Vernon Fredericks was awarded the Ironman for his unrelenting hard work in the tough stuff.
Tasman Makos 24 (Finlay Christie, Alex Ainley tries, Mitchell Hunt 4 pen, con) v Waikato 19 (Jordan Trainor try, Damian McKenzie 4 pen, con) HT: 9-10.
Next Game: Canterbury away in Christchurch
The Makos take on defending Premiers, Canterbury on Sunday (28 Aug), 2.35pm at AMI Stadium, Addington.
In 2 Weeks: Taranaki at home in Nelson
The following Saturday (3 September, 2.35pm) Tasman will play their first home match in Nelson against Taranaki in a replay of the 2014 match where the Bulls got up after the full-time hooter.
Not only are Kids 12 Years & Younger able to watch the Makos play Taranaki for free, they will also will be given a redemption card at the entrances which can be exchanged for a FREE* pottle of chips and bottle of water. (* one card per child accompanied by a paying adult).
In 3 Weeks: Otago away in Dunedin
The Makos play Otago at Forsyth Barr Stadium on Saturday 10 September, 4.35pm.
We have 50 tickets available for travelling Makos fans or our fans living in Dunedin. We will meet from 2pm at Starters Bar before heading to the ground. If anyone is keen to join, please email us at info@makos.co.nz
Fins Up!
