Mako surge in second half

With an almost entirely new starting lineup, no competition points on offer, and treacherous weather conditions, Tasman v Bay of Plenty at Trafalgar Park today was never going to be a spectacle of champagne rugby.

A late three-try surge from the hosts flattered the scoreboard with Tasman eventually shutting out the Steamers for a 26-9 win.

Both sides were guilty of numerous handling errors, going 60 try-less minutes before giving the modest crowd something to cheer about.

After two impressive performances to start his career, young winger Macca Springer was forced off the field early after a head knock.

Te Aihe Toma's boot put the visitors ahead 6-0 while Tevita Koloamatangi was sent to the bin just before the break for a cynical offside.

Toma slotted his third penalty to bring an end to a dire half of rugby with Bay of Plenty ahead 9-0.

Campbell Parata put Tasman on the board after 43 minutes, back to back penalties bringing his side within three.

After almost an hour without a try, Andrew Knewstubb finally broke the shackles on the back of a Steamers mistake, Parata pouncing and linking with his fullback who streaked away.

The Mako clicked into gear soon after, Timoci Tavatavanawai surging in at the corner courtesy of a superb cutout pass from Parata.

Parata pushed the margin to 10 before Quentin MacDonald sealed the scrappy win with a third Mako try from a slick lineout move.

Tasman will have the bye next weekend before heading south to take on the out-of-form Canterbury.

The Mako still sit in fourth spot, six points shy of leaders Hawke's Bay.

Scorers:

Tasman 26 (Knewstubb, Tavatavanawai, MacDonald tries, Parata 3 pens) Bay of Plenty 9 (Toma 3 pens). HT: 9-0 BOP