Family’s haka caps an
Brandon Smith received an emotional haka led by his autistic cousin to cap a perfect night for the Kiwis debutant.
The rookie gave an outstanding display from dummy half, making light of his inexperience with a mature performance in New Zealand’s thrilling 26-24 victory.
Smith scored a crucial second-half try and almost had another, denied only by the boot of a Kangaroos defender as he tried to force the ball.
He also provided crisp, composed service from the base of the ruck, took options well and helped the Kiwis to an impressive completion rate.
And his night was topped off by a tribute from Waiheke-based family and friends, part of the boatloads that had come over for the game.
“I went to see a lot of my friends and family after the game, they were on the sidelines,” said Smith.
“I was blessed to get a haka . . . my autistic cousin Cohen led it — that was another emotional moment for me.
“He’s the biggest Warriors fan you
have ever met and even though I’m playing at Melbourne, he stays strong to the Warriors.
“There is no one I’ve met who loves football more than him, so to receive that was really humbling.”
Standing outside the Kiwis dressing room, Smith at times struggled to find the words to sum up an incredible night.
“I was pretty emotional,” said Smith. “I don’t think I have ever been through something like that in my life. [During the anthems], the camera came along and I was balling my eyes out. I saw my sister in the crowd and it was a pretty unreal experience. I don’t think anything could top it so far. It was definitely the proudest moment of my life, and I think my Dad’s life as well.”
Smith, who has been in the queue behind Cameron Smith at the Storm for the past two seasons but still played 21 NRL games, mostly at lock, paid tribute to the faith shown by Kiwis coach Michael Maguire
“He gave me the shot I’ve been looking for all my life. Hopefully I can build from that and become a long-term hooker for the Kiwis.”
Last night, Smith lived up to all the potential that has long been talked about, and showed why the Storm have signed him to a long-term deal. He seems to embrace every challenge, and the confidence he showed to take on the Kangaroos forwards up the middle was impressive, especially with his 53rd-minute try.
“I’m grateful the boys played the ball quick for me and gave me the chance to do that,” said Smith. “Madge [Maguire] put the confidence in me . . . ‘if you want to scoot, just scoot’.”