‘Plenty of positives’ come out of defeat
Turanganui a Kiwa Maori coach Mike Nepia was far from discouraged after his side’s 39-10 loss to Waiariki (Bay of Plenty Maori) at Rotorua at the weekend.
“It was our first game of the season and there were plenty of positives to take out of the game as we build up to this month’s Te Tini a Maui Maori Rugby Tournament in Palmerston North,” said Nepia, whose side play neighbours Horouta (East Coast) for the William Pitt Trophy at Rugby Park on Saturday.
Waiariki came out all guns blazing and led 24-5 at the end of the first 40 minutes.
“Their big forwards set the platform for their impressive hard-running backs to score some good tries,” Nepia said.
“It really took our boys the first 40 minutes to get their game going but the second half was a lot better.
“We started winning some good ball from set-pieces and put pressure on the opposition.
“We created a lot of opportunities but couldn’t finish off.
“We were more physical, though, and the backs started running hard.”
Nepia said players to shine were Murray Hewson, Colin Hovell, Tim Barbarich and Mario Counsell — in his first game back since returning from Ireland.
“Jesse Fleming, who is now at Massey University, also played well on the wing,” Nepia said.
“The tournament is not for two weeks so the next two games, Horouta and Counties Manukau the following week, will be big for us.”
Turanganui a Kiwa are sending two teams to Palmertson North, seniors and colts, with the seniors aiming to make the A-division final and the colts defending the trophy they won last year.