Maka, a former Tonga under-19 international, returned the following year and went on to captain HSOB in 2012 and 2013.
A serious head injury in a pre-season game ruled Maka out of the 2014 campaign.
He marked his return in game two of the 2015 season with a man-of-the-match performance against Pirates and went on to collect a Shield winners’ medal after an 18-16 win against Ngatapa.
“His work ethic and his refusal to take a backward step make him an integral member of our playing squad,” said HSOB assistant coach Ian Loffler.
“He’s naturally fit through his job in the forestry and he’s a follow-me type of leader. He’s also a well-respected leader, along with Kolo (Fonohema), within the Tongan community in the club.
“He’s a dedicated player who works hard on and off the field.”
Fourth-placed Farmvets YMP go into the game needing a win to keep the pressure on Ngatapa and OBM, who are both on 33 points, five ahead of YMP.
YMP, who went down to OBM last week, are only three clear of fifth-placed Waikohu with four games remaining before the semifinals.
“Like all the clubs we’ve been badly affected by injuries this season,” said player-coach Reihana Wyllie.“But there’s no point dwelling on them. We have to focus on the players who are fit.
“Willis (Tamatea, YMP captain) is back after a couple of weeks off, that’s a plus. Willis will start at lock, alongside Eru Wharerau. Otherwise it’s the same team as last week.”
YMP were tied 8-all with OBM at halftime last week but despite dominating the last 40 minutes were held scoreless while OBM added eight points.
“Our option-taking in the backs wasn’t good but hopefully they’ll have learned from their mistakes.”
¦ Kevin Hollis Glass Pirates, reeling from an injury-plagued season, are out of contention for a playoffs spot but coach Steve Smith said his side would not be lying down and rolling over as they prepare to face Enterprise Cars OBM at the Oval tomorrow.
“Our injury list just got bigger, with Devonte Martin out after having surgery on his ear and CJ Fox out with a broken toe,” said Smith, who could be forced into action tomorrow.
“I’m trying my best not to play but if I have to then I will.”
Utility back Martin and halfback Fox have been two of Smith’s most consistent players, along with ever-reliable front-rower Anthony Kiwara.
Smith will also be without his two most experienced players — midfielder TK Moeke and No.8 Ken Houkamau.
“Ken’s probably out for the rest of the season through injuries and work commitments, which is a blow.
“Everard (Reid) took over as captain last week and he’s been great value since signing from MAC (Napier). He’s a class player.”
Smith said Pirates’ injury list and lack of depth this season was frustrating.
“But I love the club and I love the game. If I had only one player turn up for training, I’d be there. I believe if we had been able to field our strongest team every week, things would have been different.
“There have been games earlier in the season we should/could have won but the aim now is to try to win as many as we can before the end of the season.”
OBM warmed up for the encounter with a hard-fought 16-8 win against YMP last week but coach Stu Blair has been forced to make changes in the forwards, with lock Jacob Cook out.
Muzza (Murray Hewson) will play lock and Mike Williams comes into the back row. The backs should be similar to last week.
“We’re taking nothing for granted and I want an 80-minute performance.”
