Nelson veteran Andrew Goodman scored twice in Nelson's 53-3 win over Moutere at Neale Park on Saturday. Photo: Evan Barnes/Shuttersport.

Nelson the team to topple in Tasman Trophy

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Nelson senior A assistant coach Chris Pugh admitted he was worried before the Tasman Trophy clash with Moutere – he need not have worked up a sweat. Galbraith Nelson were far too good in the top of the table clash 53-3 at Neale Park.

The nine try win surprised many on the sidelines and even coach Pugh.

“I’d watched their earlier games and, to be honest, I was concerned, but we turned up with the right attitude.

The return of utility back Tima Faingaanuku for one game helped, while experienced heads like Andrew Goodman and flanker Shane Grieve added value. Andrew dotted down twice as did dynamic flanker Ethan Blackadder, who got through a power of work.

“We have some young guys with old heads – Willy Havili is playing out of his skin and having Tima at the back helps.

“Winger Kim Bateman was superb and I think he’s been our form winger, and to ask a guy like Craig Moore to play his first game of the season and go 60 minutes while dominating the scrum was massive as well.”

Chris says he expected Moutere to be dominant but admitted them losing Makos flanker Vernon Fredricks was a big blow for them pre-match.