Mako named to play Manawatu in Palmy
The Tasman Mako will look to continue the momentum from last week's demolition of Taranaki when they take on the Turbos in Palmerston North tonight.
BY JONTY DINE [Nelson App]
The Mako have gone four from five to open its Mitre 10 Cup campaign, the only blemish coming against top of the table Auckland.
However, Tasman bounced back in emphatic fashion on Friday night, putting a half century on an underwhelming Taranaki outfit.
Despite the resounding victory, head coach Leon MacDonald has made a number of tweaks to his squad for their round six encounter.
Last week’s two try hero Andrew Makalio retains his spot to form a formidable front row with Tyrel Lomax and Wyatt Crockett while Quentin Strange will again partner with man of the match Pari Pari Parkinson.
In the loose, Sione Havili will start at openside in place of the injured Jed Brown with former baby black John Akauolo-Laula set to make his first Mako appearance off the pine.
Alex Nankivell will start in the mid-field with Jamie Spowart getting another crack on the wing in place of Tima Fainganuuku
Mako captain David Havili shifts from midfield to his regular fullback position for tonight’s match against the Manawatu Turbos. Photo: Barry Whitnall/Shuttersport NZ.
Skipper David Havili shifts from the midfield to his usual fullback position with the electric Will Jordan moving to the bench.
Marist utility Jamie Spowart says he is fizzing for another chance to line up on the right wing.
"So grateful for another opportunity and real excited to have another crack at this level!”
Jamie says confidence in the camp is high after last Friday night’s demolition of Taranaki.
"The boys are feeling good and are ready to face a strong Manawatu side.”
Tasman will propel itself to first equal on the premiership table with a bonus point win tonight while Manawatu will be looking for just its second win of the season.
Manawatu v Tasman: 19 September, 7.35pm at Central Energy Trust Arena, Palmerston North.
Tasman: 1. Wyatt Crockett, 2. Andrew Makalio, 3. Tyrel Lomax, 4. Pari Pari Parkinson, 5. Quinten Strange, 6. Ethan Blackadder, 7. Sione Havili, 8. Taina Fox-Mataamua, 9. Finlay Christie, 10. Mitchell Hunt, 11. Solomon Alaimalo, 12. Alex Nankivell, 13. Levi Aumua, 14. Jamie Spowart, 15. David Havili (c).
Substitutes: 16. Ray Nuiua, 17. Ryan Coxon, 18. Blair Prinsep, 19. Mike Curry, 20. John Akauolo-Laula, 21. Jack Grooby, 22. Tim O'Malley, 23. Will Jordan.
