27/10/2007

Coach: Dennis Brown
Asst. Coach: Bevan Caldwallader
Manager: Terry Williamson
Asst Manager: Brett Thornalley

Two wins in their first three games – including victory over giant killers Hawke’s Bay, was as good as it got for Tasman this season. There were no bonus try scoring points but the four close losses, including one to neigbour Canterbury, was encouraging. That Tasman scored less and conceded more in the latter part of the season was not an indication of lack of progress but rather it was how the draw had treated them. Name players had come and gone, but in truth the strength of Tasman was in its local players.

Alex Ainley beginning the season at flank and finishing at lock was a wise choice as captain. He is a player who may not achieve higher status, but appealed because of the integrity of his play. He could not have given more.

Robbie Malneek played most games at fullback. He is not the most orthodox, but he gives great value to this region. Kade Poki started the season at pace but tended to drift off the pace as the intensity of the competition rose. He is certainly one for the future. Veteran Caleb Ralph initially started at centre before moving to the wing. Was this where he could add most value? Blair Cook started at both wing and fullback and in both positions looked enterprising. Joel Iggo started all but two games at second five eight. He tends to get better each season so we hope for more yet. Tim Taylor had a good second year with effective goal kicking. James Foote had a positive introduction to first-class rugby. Three halfbacks were used with Kahn Fotuali’i being the most impressive.

Peter Nixon from Canterbury was solid at number eight but Jonathan Poff had not avanced on last year standards. Mark Bright was always top value- whether coming off the bench or starting. Chris Bentley started most games at lock and was a valuable, energetic player every time. Rees Logan from Southland did not get much game time. Kahu Marfell year in year out continues to deliver the goods for the top of the south. Having recently scored two tries at Exeter, Ben May could surely not be called anonymous, but it was an unheralded front row of five props and three hookers that fronted for Tasman. Ben Franks started the season at prop before being repossessed by Canterbury. Tristan Moran missed just one game at prop as did Mark Stewart at hooker.

Tasman Makos 2007 Air New Zealand Cup draw.

Played 10 I Won 2 I Drew 0 I Lost 8 I Points for 184 I Points Against 263

2007 PLAYER RESULT