The Tasman makos began their ITM Cup rugby campaign with a convincing 29-5 win over Canterbury at Takahanga Domain in Kaikoura today.
Played in wet muddy conditions, the first half of the game was dominated by the Makos, led by standout hooker Francis Smith. They were up 24-0 at halftime.
Canterbury brought virtually an entire new team on for the second 40 minutes and got more into the match. However the Makos finished strongly in what their coaches Kieran Keane and Leon Macdonald rated a pleasing start.
Smith , Shane Christie and Vernon Fredrick's impressed up front with halfback Jeremy Sua and first five Hayden Crisps directing play intelligently.
Scores: Tasman Makos 29 (Francis Smith 2, Quentin Macdonald, Jordan Taufua, Tevita Cavubati tries; Crisps 2 con); Canterbury 5 (Andrew Olerenshaw try).
Friday August 3 2012 05:18 a.m.