Keane keen for Makos triumph

One man who has followed the Tasman Makos’ march to the 2016 Mitre 10 Cup final closer than most is the side’s longest-serving coach, Kieran Keane.

The former All Black was at the helm of the Makos for seven years, piloting them to an NPC championship title in 2013 and a premiership final in 2014.

He departed the top of the south at the end of the 2015 season to become assistant coach at the Chiefs, but has closely monitored his beloved Tasman’s progress as they battled their way to a showdown with defending champions Canterbury in Christchurch on Saturday evening.

‘‘I think [the Makos] have done really well this year,’’ said Keane, ‘‘particularly in light of their injuries and with certain players leaving. There were some big gaps to fill.

‘‘For example at lock where the two ‘Young Turks’, Quentin [Strange] and Pari Pari [Parkinson] have really stepped up nicely.’’

Keane feels the Makos are playing a similar-style game to what their predecessors produced, although they have been limited in their endeavours by the ‘‘anachronistic’’ new rules. ’’However Tasman have adapted to those new rules as well as anybody, which is a tribute to their coaching staff.’’

With 12 newcomers to the Makos jersey this year, moulding a new-look side together was always going to be a challenge and he has been impressed by the speed things have come together.

‘‘The highlight for me has been how well the young fellas have stepped up. It has provided muchneeded depth and there is a succession plan being followed that will hold them in good stead.’’

Several players have caught the vastly-experienced coach’s eye. ‘‘The young fullback [Mitchell Hunt] has had a great season. I really like the young halfback Fin Christie and the exciting winger Tima Faingaanuku. They’ve all stepped up really well in the backs.

‘‘Up front the hooker [Andrew Makalio] has had a barnstorming season ... and he will go to a higher level.’’

Keane knows a thing or two about beating Canterbury, who he represented 64 times from 1977 until 1985, having been head coach when the Makos tipped over their southern neighbours twice in 2014 and once in 2012. He says there is no big secret to getting the better of the defending champs, but it is easier said than done.

‘‘In simple terms we have to break their defence. Their defence has been a major factor in their performances so breaking that down is going to be our biggest challenge.

‘‘Getting lightning-quick ball is going to be a huge factor in the game for us. It will allow us to keep our game and the continuity of our game together.’’

In early times Canterbury would have been considered the ‘‘big brother’’ to Tasman, giving the southerners a mental edge, but Keane feels that advantage has disappeared.

‘‘I think mentally Tasman is there now, they have played enough big games that the stage won’t worry them.’’

He is quietly confident that the Makos can pick up their first national premiership. ‘‘On their day they can beat anybody, but they are going to have to be patient, and disciplined, if they are to break down that Canterbury defensive wall.’’

Keane has been in regular contact with the Tasman management throughout the season, as he puts it, ‘‘harassing them and offering my two cents worth’’.

‘‘I am still really pleased for them and really proud of them. A win would be wonderful for the team and the area.’’