Reece’s jibe gives Ioane extra motivation
BLUES star Rieko Ioane says the try-scoring celebration jibe by Fijian Crusaders wing Sevu Reece has provided him with extra motivation to beat the Crusaders in their reverse fixture in Christchurch next month.
Reece caused a stir on social media for celebrating his 78th minute try by mocking Ioane’s signature cross-armed pose during his side’s 43-27 win over the Blues at Eden Park on Sunday.
After dotting down in the righthand corner following a clean run to the tryline, the 24-year-old crossed his arms and stared at the crowd, replicating the celebration Ioane dished out after scoring against the Hurricanes and Highlanders earlier this season.
Speaking to media at training on Tuesday, Ioane said he was aware of Reece’s taunt and was eager to get one back over his All Blacks teammate when the Blues next face the Crusaders at Orangetheory Stadium on April 25.
“He’s a cheeky fella,” Ioane said of Reece.
“It’s awesome gamesmanship. It’s good to know I’m not the only one doing it and that people actually notice as opposed to just mocking me.
“Full credit to them, winners reap the rewards, he scored so it’s awesome for him. I definitely wasn’t happy about it, don’t get me wrong.
“It’s stuff like that gets you going and adds to fire.
“Having Sevu get one up on me, or your mates in the other team get one up or you, is a pretty hollow feeling. You definitely park that deep and once we face them again or even the next game it will be more fuel to the fire.
“I actually didn’t see it during the game so he came round and asked if I saw it. It’s good gamesmanship from them so I enjoy that sort of banter on the field.”
Ioane has become renowned for his try-scoring celebrations in recent seasons, and the 24-yearold midfielder said it’s likely to stay that way for the foreseeable future, even if he had drawn criticism from some viewers for his on-field antics.
The Blues currently lie in second place on the Super Rugby Aotearoa standings and are scheduled to kick off their clash with the Chiefs at 7:05pm on Saturday NZT.