WAYNE OLDHAM
Waimea’s Division 1 side let a strong start slip, going down 47–38 to Central in their Club Day Tasman Trophy clash at Jubilee Park on Saturday.
Holding a 10-point lead after 52 minutes and chasing both the John Goodman Trophy and a clean sweep on club day, Waimea were unable to close out the match.
Solid attacking play throughout the contest was undone by lapses in defensive structure and first-up contact, allowing Central to surge home late.
There were still bright spots for the home side. Sio Latu marked his 50th appearance in Division 1 for the club with a double, while winger Karl Palmer, named player of the day, also crossed twice.
Despite the loss, Waimea remain well inside the top four and now turn their attention to a trip to Greenmeadows this Saturday, where they will face an in-form, rejuvenated Stoke side for the Ken Mansfield Cup.
MARTIN THAKE
Waimea have boosted their push for a home semi-final with a bonus point win over Wanderers in the Car Company Nelson Bays Division 2 competition.
After a run of poor weather, the teams were greeted by a clear day and a ground in near perfect condition for the battle of the bridge, with both sides chasing top spots on the ladder.
Wanderers brought early intensity and put Waimea under pressure in the opening exchanges, but Waimea stayed composed to keep themselves in the contest heading into halftime.
A focused halftime message helped Waimea reset, and the side returned with renewed intent. They gradually took control through disciplined play and strong support on the break, with several well-executed long range tries stretching the advantage.
Waimea’s experience again proved key, with senior players guiding the side through crucial moments to close out the match.
The win, along with a valuable bonus point, leaves Waimea well placed heading into the playoffs, with a top of the table clash against Stoke at Greenmeadows on Saturday set to shape the standings.
Scorers:
Solmon Wairau – two tries
Kisione Niutupuivaha – one try
Rory Burns – one try
Nairn Wilson – one try
Hoani Dygas – four conversions, one penalty
