That was awesome! We were strong up front and dangerous in the backs. Apart from a couple of over throws at lineout the set piece was very strong. Good to see Lemisio have a good game after some struggles at the scrum in first few games. I thought Adam's was very strong, holding his end up at the scrum but also strong with ball in hand. Was surprised how consistent BKPs throwing was - rest of his game very good as usual.

As good as Northland were, Tasman were uncharacteristically poor. They seemed to give up on their lineout halfway through the first half.

I thought LHE had been one of our best in the first half so guessing he went off injured especially given he was replaced by a loosie (Jurlina). Will be a big loss if he's out. Thought that was first game that Rob Rush played near the level of last season - hope he keeps that up.

LMH went well, going to be hard for Nock to break back in I think. Hohaia had one of his best ever games but still think we're better served with Goodhue at 12. Just stronger physically in defense and attack and also better distributor. Tua was quiet but still had some good runs - getting the ball in traffic rather than in space this year unfortunately. As others mentioned Moorby back into form and Murray carrying on his good form. Obviously the tries and runs etc getting the attention but what a handy weapon his left boot is too.

We really needed that result after a bit of a bumbling first week. I wonder if the storm week had been reversed and we played Southland first whether all 3 games might've been better. Hopefully we can carry it on!

The Silver Fern

Chiefy07