Central’s ‘Blues Brothers’ set sights higher this season
A pivotal season lies ahead for the Central premier rugby team.
Entering 2022 with a new coach, some handy new players and a core of experienced operators, the Blues are determined to not only regain their ascendency on the local scene, but also to put up a stern challenge for the Tasman Trophy.
Marlborough-based sides have struggled to make a mark in the top of the south club showpiece competition since Waitohi took the honours in 2014.
Mako veteran and long-time Central player Quentin MacDonald has stepped up as the Blues’ player/coach this season. Last season his side made the semi finals of the Tasman Trophy, losing to Kahurangi, then went down to Renwick in the Marlborough sub-union final, handing Renwick their first ever senior crown.
He feels it is time Central showed their true potential, in both competitions.
“If we can stay healthy this year, I think we can go one better … we have a pretty talented squad we just need to stay together and keep it on.”
A three-team Marlborough competition will be played to open the season and Quentin views that as an ideal way to shape up for later battles.
“If we go well in the Marlborough comp it would set us up for a good run at the Tasman Trophy,” he suggested.
“All three of the Marlborough squads are looking strong this year, especially with Renwick and Waitohi having picked up some players from Moutere and Awatere. It will be very competitive locally.”
Up front, Central will field most of the pack that has served them well in previous campaigns.
Back after missing much of the 2021 season with injury are key forwards Braden Stewart and Jesse MacDonald, both former NPC players. Jesse, who can play hooker or in the loose, will join his brother and is expected to add considerable skill and power to the mix. Braden, who is likely to push for Mako honours again this year, has got better each season and provides real firepower in the loose, along with Peni Fihaki, last season’s MBC 1st XV No 8.
Newcomers in the back division are inside back Riaihi Rangihaeata, who was a standout in the 10 jersey for the Nelson club last season, and midfielder Tai Pangai, a member of the 2021 Timaru BHS 1st XV.
One significant loss is promising loose forward Setaleki Baker, with work commitments taking him to Nelson. Another notable absentee is excitement machine Timoci Tavatavanawai, who had a breakthrough season with the Tasman Mako last year and is part of the Moana Pasifika Super Rugby squad. He has been named in the Blues’ squad and may be released to play at some stage.
The 2022 Central squad is: Jesse MacDonald, Quentin MacDonald, Tino Vakaloa, Peter Vakaloa, Jeremy Foley, Siate Kivalu, Ben Reeve, Lockie McCormick, Jack Powell, Matthew McCormick, Braden Stewart (captain), Peni Fihaki, Olly Lawson, Jesse Eising, Ethan Jones, Mitch Smith, (vice captain) Riaihi Rangihaeata, Nigel Satherley, Lani Fihaki, Tai Pangai, Jack Griffiths, Gazza Smith, Tamana Tui, Timoci Tavatavanawai. Coaches: Quentin MacDonald, Riki Winitana.