Rugby: Tasman maintain edge over Manawatu

Tasman halfback Kahn Fotuali'i was one of five try scorers for his side in their 34-15 victory over Manawatu. Photo / Getty Images

Tasman maintained their historical hex over Manawatu with a confident 34-15 Air NZ Cup rugby win in Nelson.

A bright performance which matched the conditions at Trafalgar Park saw the hosts run in five tries against a Manawatu side who produced their limpest display of 2009.

It continued a trend that began when Nelson Bays and Marlborough amalgamated, with Tasman having emphatically won their three previous matches against Manawatu.

Today was no different, with Manawatu missing too many tackles and struggling to escape their own half.

Tasman didn't miss injured All Blacks prop Ben Franks, getting on the front foot at scrum time while the No 8 Mark Bright and locks Joe Wheeler and Alex Ainley were star performers in a dominant allround pack display.

Victory was set up by a 17-point burst during a five-minute period in the first half.

First five-eighth Andrew Goodman kicked a penalty and converted tries to flanker Glen Gregory and centre Afeleke Perenise, both of which were set up by classy buildup work from Bright.

Manawatu lock Reece Robinson burrowed over against the run of play before the break to leave his team 17-5 down.

Opposite number Ainley loped over 12min into the second spell before Manawatu enjoyed their best period, closing to within seven points with 10min remaining.

First five-eighth Aaron Cruden landed a penalty and made a half-break which saw reserve back Francis Bryan cross.

However, Tasman found a second win to score through impressive winger Blair Cook and halfback Kahn Fotuali'i.

Eighth heading into round six, Tasman's win will see them join Manawatu on a three win-three loss record, with both teams still firmly in the semifinal hunt.

Tasman 34 (Glen Gregory, Afeleki Pelenise, Alex Ainley, Blair Cook, Kahn Fotuali'i tries; Andrew Goodman pen, 3 con) Manawatu 15 (Reece Robinson, Francis Bryant tries; Aaron Cruden pen, con). Halftime: 17-5.

- NZPA