Central exposes Marist weaknesses as competion heats up

Central have exposed Marist’s weaknesses in a dominant display at Trafalgar Park.

The 16-42 win was a dominant performance from the visitors, earning redemption for the other Blenheim side after Moutere fell just short to Nelson, 33-29.

With Nelson leading by just four points, they held on against a late push that saw them defending their try-line and lead to end the game.

With both teams already out of contention for the playoffs, the game was more for pride as Nelson looks to get back in the green after amassing 10 penalty points to date this season.

In the main event, two titans of Tasman rugby locked horns, but it was Central who came out the better side in a convincing performance.

With hooker Quentin MacDonald returning to the side after injury, they were the far better side on the day as Marist struggled to make ends meet.

Added to the woes were injury concerns, which saw Seta Saruia have to take the field towards the end of the opening 40 minutes to replace the injured first five, Jarel Hemehema.

With Jarel helped off the field and into a waiting ambulance, Marist were left without a strong kicking option that hampered them for the rest of the game.

Central’s defence was another big factor, with Marist making their first line break just under 55 minutes into the game.

Hard tackling saw Marist often struggle to make the advantage line, while Central were slick with their offence.

Marist were the first to put points on the board as they kicked a penalty, the first of two for the half to trail 6-14 lead into the halftime break.

The second half started how it ended for Central, with a try to Jarel Hemehema which extended their advantage.

Marist would then bounce back with a try of their own, but the work that they had to put in to get over the line was monumental.

Two more tries to Central pushed the game back out of reach, with a late try to Adam Schwass more of a consolation than anything else as Central scored after the hooter to end the game with a massive win.

The result sees Central (29 points) jump to second on the table behind Kahurangi (36), while Waimea Old Boys (27) and Stoke (27) chase their tails, with Marist (26) closely behind.