Makos defeat Taniwha
What was expected to be a straight forward outing against win-less Northland became much more difficult as wet and windy conditions forced our Makos to fight hard for a 33 – 23 victory against a dogged, committed Taniwha team.
Links:
Tasman banks four points against Northland
Northland match day photos by Shuttersport
Tasman had first use of a stiff northerly and the least of the rain but handling errors had the team scoreless after 20 minutes. A strong second 20 minute spell, and converted tries to flanker Tevita Koloamatangi and lock Quinten Strange, had the Makos up by 20 points until Northland scored on the half-time whistle to narrow the gap to 20 -7.
Northland made great use of the wind in the second half with pivot and former Mako (#80) Dan Hawkins pinning Tasman in their half and landing two penalties to make it 20-16 with 30 minutes to play.
The two sides traded converted tries, the Makos one to lock Shannon Frizzell, to set up a final 10 minutes that had the Makos faithful fretting. However the introduction of Kane Hames at loose head prop gave the Makos a powerful scrum that created two penalty chances for Marty Banks which sealed the win.
Right wing Tima Faingaanuku, Koloamatangi and Frizzell were stand outs for Tasman while Marty Banks was again flawless with his goal kicking with seven from seven.
Tasman 33 (Tries: Tevita Koloamatangi, Quinten Strange, Shannon Frizzell; Marty Banks 4 pen, 3 con) v Northland 23 (Tries: Matt Matich, Kara Pryor; Dan Hawkins 3 pen, 2 con)
Next Match Away
Hawke’s Bay in Napier – Saturday 24 Sept, 7.35pm
Tickets information here ~
Next Home Match
More FM presents Thursday Night Footy
Tasman Makos v Counties – Manukau Steelers
Thursday 29 Sept, 7.35pm kick off
Tickets can be bought at Blenheim and Picton i-Sites, Mitre 10 MEGA Blenheim, online here OR at the Gates from 6.00pm Thursday.
The match will be affordable for families with free entry for children 12 Years & Younger with a paying customer (sponsored by RWCA Nelson).
Food, coffee and beverages will be available at the ground. Lansdowne Park is a smokefree venue. No glass, no alcohol can be brought in. Food in tupperware is permitted.
Fins Up!
