2012

Season

Wanganui maintained its unbeaten record at Cooks Gardens, extending the run to 30 games since its most recent loss, back in 2007. At halftime in the Meads Cup Final at Ruatoria, it appeared Wanganui would comfortably retain the trophy. The 20-3 lead was soon extended to 27-3 before East Coast rallied and ran in four tries and snatch championship honours. Wanganui made six substitutions within four minutes and seemed to lose its combinations and control.

Standout players were loose forwards Darren Munro, captain Peter Rowe and Fraser Hammond. Midfield backs Saul Chase and Rhema Sagote were dangerous on attack. Prop Shaun McDonough enjoyed a fine season. Nick Cranston showed improvement at lock while newcomer Nick Harding showed promise and kicked 43 points.

Asalemo Malo was again the adventurous fullback and Simon Dibben ran well on the right wing. Sean Brown was moved from halfback to first five-eighth. Halfback Matt Koubaridus gained Heartland selection but had to withdraw following an injury he received in the championship final. The experienced Mark Davis missed the later games.

Locks Jon Smyth and Andrew Retallick, props Vaan Rauhina and Gene Ropoama, and hookers Roman Tutauha and Junior Tume all had regular game time. Smyth, the 2011 Heartland Player of the Year, was keen to break into ITM Cup rugby and accepted an invitation to chance his arm in Northland but on failing to be selected he returned home.

The Wanganui Rugby Union celebrated its 125th anniversary during the year.

Higher honours went to:
New Zealand Heartland: Cranston, Davis, Hammond, Koubaridis, McDonough, Munro, Rowe