Belief in the Coast

NGATI P orou East Coast have no worries being the rank underdogs for Saturday’s Meads Cup decider against Wanganui — a team who have made every final since the Heartland competition was formed in 2005.
“We’re used to it. We’ve been underdogs every game we’ve played this season,” said Sky Blues assistant coach and midfield general Rua Tipoki.
“It doesn’t mean anything. This season has always been about ourselves and not the other teams. We’ve wanted to ask the question from our opposition and some have been found wanting.
“As long as the belief is there, and it is, we go into every game believing we have a chance,” said the 36-year-old who chose his province over the opportunity to be involved with the Rugby World Cup.
Tipoki was offered commentary work with Maori Television, but chose to stay with the Coast team.
“It was a dream to be a part of the world cup, if not as a player then as a commentator, but I’m glad I turned it down.
“This has been a special year, with Pirates winning the (Poverty Bay) premier title for the first time and now the Meads Cup final.
“Mutu (Ngarimu, a fellow former New Zealand Maori representative) summed it up perfectly before Saturday’s semifinal.
“We were in a circle before the match when he said he would rather be here with the boys than any other place.
“That’s how I felt. There was something about our preparation that made me think we were on the verge of causing a huge upset.”
Tipoki led from the front — especially after the Coast were reduced to 13 men when player-coach Ngarimu Simpkins and lock Willie Waitoa were sinbinned in the second half — but was quick to praise the contribution of the forward pack.
“That was the turning point of the game. It galvanised the team,” said Tipoki.
“When North Otago kicked to touch from the penalty for a lineout I looked at the faces of our guys and saw a steely resolve that made me believe we could hold them out and go on to win.
“You couldn’t single any of the forwards out . . . six men, plus Charlie (Harrison, the Coast halfback) against eight — they were awesome. It made me be proud to be a part of this team.
“North Otago didn’t score any points when we had 13 men and that was a huge blow to them mentally as well as a huge psychological lift to us.”
Although he turned down commentating at the world cup, Tipoki has been glued to the action.
“I’m worried now that Dan Carter is out. Let’s hope Piri Weepu or Colin Slade can step up.”
Having played professionally for Munster, Tipoki has a soft spot for Ireland.
“Ireland was like a second home to me and my family. The people took us in and made us feel part of their families.
“I hope Ireland make the final. Ronan O’Gara, (a former Munster team-mate of Tipoki) is hoping to come to Gisborne after the world cup is over. It will be good to catch up with him.”