Mako crush Steelers 36 - 0 in Pukekohe
Mako crush Steelers in Pukekohe
By Jonty Dine [Nelson Weekly]
Though conditions weren't pretty the rugby certainly was as the Mako's superb start to the season continued at Pukekohe this evening.
Tasman kept the hosts scoreless and ran in five tries to rout the Steelers 36-0, maintaining its spot at the top of the premiership table.
The win may have come at a cost though with Andrew Makalio and Mitch Hunt both leaving the field with injuries.
After a slow start, Tasman opened the scoring with Ethan Blackadder forcing a turnover and Will Jordan finishing off a slick counterattack.
Jordan bagged a second on the back of a Mitch Hunt crosskick which is proving an effective weapon for the Mako this season.
The Mako were all over the hosts, Levi Aumua bulldozing his way over for a third as Tasman took a handy 24-0 half time lead.
It wasn't all positive for the visitors though as Tasman lost Hunt to concussion, replaced by Tim O'Malley.
The carnage continued after the break with Andrew Makalio stretchered off.with a serious looking injury.
His replacement Sam Moli ensured the lengthy break didn't halt momentum, scoring the bonus point with his first touch off a surging maul.
With the result assured Tasman cleared the pine and fluidity wavered somewhat but Leicester Faingaanuku put the icing on the cake for the unbeaten Mako.
Next week will see the side turn out at Trafalgar Park for the first time this season as they take on north Harbour on Sunday September 15.
Scorers:
Tasman 36 (Will Jordan 2, Levi Aumua, Sam Moli, Leicester Faingaanuku tries, Mitch Hunt 3 cons, Tim O'Malley 1 con 1 pen) defeated Counties-Manukau 0
