October 20, 2025 • 18 mins
On Sports Fix with Jason Pine for 20 October 2025, Kiwis rugby league legend Tawera Nikau joins the podcast to reflect on yesterday's epic double-header between New Zealand and Toa Samoa at Mt Smart Stadium.
Newstalk ZB sport journalist Elijah Fa'afiu joins to discuss not only the league but also the Bunnings NPC semi-finals ahead of the grand final between Canterbury and Otago this weekend.
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Speaker 1 (00:09):
You're listening to a podcast from News Talks EDB. Follow
this and our wide range of podcasts now on iHeartRadio.
This is Sportsfix howard By News Talks EDB.
Speaker 2 (00:20):
Hello and welcome into the Sports Fix podcast. At the
start of a new week in association with GJ. Gardner Holmes,
New Zealan's most trusted homebuilder, I'm Jason Pine. On Monday,
October twenty at the back end of another jam packed
sporting weekend, including an absolutely tremendous day at go Media
(00:41):
Stadium yesterday. For that rugby league doubleheader, the Kiwi's against
some More the Kiwi Ferns against Samoa are two terrific
games of rugby league. Want to kick those around with
rugby league legend Tawan and Eko on the podcast today
and with the larger for you two a big league
fan in the chamber, we'll also ask the question have
we got the two best teams in the NPC Rugby Final?
(01:05):
And the latest in sports news coming your way as well,
so let's get into it. In other news, let's get
things underway with a look at some of the big
sports stories around today. Red Bulls Max for staff and
has continued his late season Formula one chart stap. It
crosses the line when's the US Role Prix and it
is Ben Max attacked and Max success. All we can
(01:27):
the four time world champion backing up sprint success with
victory from Pol at the US Grand Prixleum Lawson coming
home eleventh. The Breakers have gone down one oh four
eighty eight to the undefeated Melbourne United and Basketball's NVL
then ninth with two wins from eight games, but coach
but Terry Copenhan remaining upbeat.
Speaker 1 (01:45):
I think actually we played pretty solid.
Speaker 3 (01:47):
We challenged the best team in the league, the playing
excellent basketball and they shut the ball really well.
Speaker 2 (01:52):
But we get fading and a late winner in the
Liverpool Manchester United Premier League football match this morning at Anfield.
Speaker 3 (02:03):
Cal Ches United, Christ.
Speaker 2 (02:10):
We've gone just the ticket.
Speaker 1 (02:12):
It's Sports XV.
Speaker 2 (02:16):
You're listening to the sports Fix podcast. Absolutely brilliant day
at go Media Stadium yesterday for the Pacific Championship Rugby
League international double header New Zealand against Samoa in both
women's and men's International Rugby League and two terrific contests
with the Kiwis coming out narrow winners in both of them.
Rugby League legend towad Anko was in the crowd yesterday. Tawata,
(02:40):
thanks for joining us. Let's talk about the occasion. First
of all, how good was that yesterday?
Speaker 4 (02:44):
Oh mate? What a fantastic atmosphere party, you know, the
parm Warns twenty one thousand yesterday at go Media Stadium
and similar to the atmosphere at a Warrior's home game made.
It was absolutely fantastic. Great to see you all the
far Morns sooner and a few of the Kiwi supporters.
But what a fantastic atmosphere and great to have the
Pacific Championship back and also the Kiwis and the Sarmons
(03:08):
both blockbuster games as you saw yesterday.
Speaker 2 (03:11):
Point do it feel a bit like Hapier there at times?
Speaker 4 (03:15):
Oh mate? What about the far Moons. They came to
the party, they supported their team, they were singing, they
were chanting every time there was a trial or decision.
Was absolutely fantastic, mate. That's specific championships with the teams
you've got tong L, Sarmore and the Kiwis. Now, mate,
that's absolutely fantastic for this time of the year. After
the fantastic NRL season and then we roll into the
(03:36):
Pack Champs. Oh, it's just been absolutely fantastic.
Speaker 2 (03:39):
It seems like an obvious question, but how important is
it that the likes of Samoa and Tonga as well
as the Kiwi's get regular international games like this?
Speaker 4 (03:48):
Yeah? I think that's been always been the challenge, you know,
with the NRL and the long season that they have,
and it's always challenging when you've got a few players
injured and a couple of players after tough seasons in
the NRL in between the windows of World Cups and
having these build ups. Now, Piney, if you look at
the team's pain hass probably you know the best front
rower running around the moment, and you had James Fisher,
(04:12):
Harris and Moses Iodapher Solomona, Joe Tappini and the Kiwi pack.
But then you also had Junior Paulo, Josh Papolii playful
to some morn So both teams were stacked with top
grade NRL players. So just made for a fantastic game
last night.
Speaker 2 (04:31):
How do you reckon Roger tili vasishek would have felt
going to go media studying use today, you know, like
he's used to go in there for the Warriors and
getting you know, getting the home crowd and as we say,
there a lot of some morns. They're cheering for him.
But coming up against some of his mates, you know,
his teammates is good mates, the likes of James Fisher,
Harrison and Charns and others. That and that key we side.
How would he have how would he have sort of
negotiated that?
Speaker 4 (04:52):
Yeah, well, I think one of the cool things about
pointing is, you know, Roger played at the hoghest level,
played in the NRL, played at the rests. But actually
getting to represent you know, some more your heritage, your parents,
your family, that's another level. And that's a great thing
about the Pacific Championships. When you look at the players
and the quality Ryan or Roger two of Vasus Check,
(05:13):
Jerome Leuye, Blaze, Tar Lungey. These are the players that
are playing at the top of their game, and you
get to represent your family, your culture and your history
just adds a whole other dimension. There's a real connection
then in terms of what these players are playing for.
So yeah, while it's tough playing against your good old
teammates that you play for the Warriors, you go to
(05:34):
another level and you're playing for your family and playing
for your culture. So whilst it would have been tough
for Roger, I think you've still been inspired and motivated
to represent his culture, his heritage and his family, which
is absolutely fantastic.
Speaker 2 (05:48):
What do you think rugby League manages to create that
kind of connection the you know, that deep connection with
the games fans. Why do you think rugby League manages
so well to do that?
Speaker 4 (06:01):
I think one of the key things find is when
you look at our community, you look at our people,
they're really working class. You know, they got a lot
of farm warns, we got a lot of Tomlins, we
got a lot of Pacific Islanders. You know, Auckland is
the huge of the capital of the Pacific. You know
what I mean with all those people, you know they
left their home lands to come for a better life
in New Zealand, to work, to provide for their children,
(06:24):
you know, to make things better for them. So I
think you know, there's a real deep connection there. And
you know you look at the Tomlin side, Adam Vanua, Bloke,
Stefano Hutakeman, Ali Kator, all these guys at the top
of their game. So when you're representing your country, you
have that connection your your heritage. It's a real deep connection.
(06:45):
There's a real cultural I suppose connection to that, and
that's the point of difference, you know, with our Pacific people,
with our Maori people, and I think that's that's the
main that connection and engagement and representing your parents and
all those that have gone before you. So I think
that's the deep connection point.
Speaker 2 (07:03):
On the field, I actually thought Samoa in the means
game could have won that game. Maybe should have won
that game.
Speaker 4 (07:08):
Moy's go on either way. It was pretty close, right
down to the way you should have seen me in
the stand. I'm glad went on there. I'm good missing
by Brian Tohall scores a try any other time. He
never drops the ball, and they had a couple of
tries just allowed on the other side with Murray till
Unky too, so you know, it was a really close game.
But I think if you look at the forward packs,
New Zealand had a bit of momentum, but some outstanding
(07:30):
tries forty twenty from chance from Chaddel Harris Tavita. You
never see that old chance knock the ball back and
there's no one around, so we'll pick it up and
score under the post. It was just one of those
games that was on a nice edge. Not only the
men's game but the women's game was absolute classic. I'm
more winning twenty mill at half time and the Kiwi
(07:53):
Ferns came back to run them down in the second half.
So two outstanding games. But really looking forward Piney to
the tomlind game in a couple of weeks where we'll
be playing at Eden Parks and get your tickets. Come
along to the game second in November at Eden Park.
I think it's going to be a blockbuster when you've
got the best teams and you've got a little half back,
a guy called that's playing for the tong inside who's
(08:14):
probably the best number seven running around in the NRL
at the moment. He's going to be Isaiah for mate.
And then upfront you've got a massive ward pack too,
so it's going to be enough puff challenge for the
Kiwi boys.
Speaker 2 (08:27):
Yeah, I can't wait for Eden Park on Sunday, November two.
Tawana always great chatting rugby league with you, mate, Thanks
for taking the time.
Speaker 4 (08:34):
All good farty go to the lady Kiwi's Yeah.
Speaker 2 (08:37):
One of the league's great enthusiasts. Thanks t Nico joining
us on the sportspex podcast.
Speaker 1 (08:45):
Dissecting this sporting agenda. It's Sportspecs with Jason Vine.
Speaker 2 (08:51):
I had the Chancellor on Weekend Sport yesterday to chat
for the first time with lou Vincent and it's an
interview which has been resonating with me and I've been
thinking about a lot in the time since we all
know the story of lou Vincent. Of course, this unbelievable
cricketer who played many, many games for New Zealand across
(09:12):
the three formats, including one hundred plus One Day Internationals,
A swash buckling batsman, a wonderful fielder and somebody who
always had boundless energy, which of course you need in
elite cricket environments. Don't forget. He scored a Test century
on Test debut at the Whacker against Australia, a bowling
(09:33):
attack of Jason Gillespie, Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee and Shane
warn That is some formidable bowling attack to be facing
on Test debuo. But lou Vinson went out there and
scored a century, then of course lured into max fixing.
Given a life ban from all cricket that was relaxed
a short time ago, and now he's doing his best
(09:54):
to make amends by delivering his message to conferences and
symposiums and trying his best to make sure others don't
fall into the same trap that he did. Look, lu
Vincent made a big mistake, a big one. But the
most impressive thing is that he owned it. He owned
up to it. He didn't have to do that, he
(10:15):
didn't have to come clean. He could have kept a
lid on what he did and none of us would
be any the wiser. But it was clearly eating him
up inside, and confessing was what he needed to do
to find peace. As a result, he was handed the
heaviest possible sentence, a life ban from the sport that
he loved for his whole life. It's affected his life,
(10:38):
his livelihood, and cost him his relationships with his two daughters.
But when his appeal was heard, the man who heard
it said that lou Vinson showed the very highest levels
of contrition and remorse and the very best efforts to
make amends wherever possible. Look, lou Vinson can't change the past.
Much as I'm sure he would love to turn the
(10:58):
clock back, he can't. But he can react in a
positive fashion to what has happened. And I think as
Kiwi's we admire people who own their mistakes rather than
deflect them, rather than make excuses, rather than blame somebody
else for what has happened to us. We are all human,
none of us is perfect, and I think an admiration
(11:21):
for lou Vincent is just part of being a Kiwi.
Really sports fact, you're listening to the Sports Fixed podcast
and into the chamber we go, the people's chamber on
a Monday with a larger few. I know you've got
a lot of sports that are dear to your heart.
You love your rugby league. How good an occasion did
that look yesterday at go Media Stadium?
Speaker 3 (11:41):
Oh that was amazing, Piney. I mean you'd be mistaken
for thinking mounts mart tend and to up here for
a brief afternoon there with all the passionate Sarmon fans
and obviously a strong contingent of Kiwi fans who are there,
just made for an amazing atmosphere, a boisterous crowd. And
both games they were on offer yesterday with the Kiwi
fans against some More and the Kiwis against some More,
(12:03):
are both outstanding matches. So a great match day in Nonetheless.
Speaker 2 (12:07):
They were, weren't they. I think that's a salient point
and that I guess some days gone by when New
Zealand played some more in rugby league. I mean, it
probably wouldn't have happened in women's rugby league, but when
it happened in men's rugby league, you think, okay, well
that's going to be a bit of a blowout, and
in the past it has been but two competitive games.
How important is it, man and how cool is it
that when two teams collide like that and men's all
(12:30):
women's rugby league, we know we're going to get really competitive,
cracking contests.
Speaker 3 (12:35):
Yeah, I think shout out to the women first of
all for setting the tone for the day and I
don't think many people expected some more to run out
to a twenty nil lead at halftime, and obviously the
Qui Friens turned it into a contest which made it
such an exciting occasion. And yeah, the Qiwis at the
end of the day showed their class. But I think
it also showed the growth of the Sarmon team in
(12:57):
the women's game. We've seen it in the men's game
with Sarmour and tongue and the players that they've been
able to bring over to boost their squads. But now
we're staying to see that in the women's game. I
think yes, today's test between the Salmon Woman and the
Kiwi fans was a great sign of that.
Speaker 2 (13:13):
In the means game, Samoa could have maybe should have
won that game.
Speaker 3 (13:16):
Aye, definitely, they had their chances in the second half.
I think credits in New Zealand's goal line defense in
that second half. Quite a few errors that New Zealand
made and conceded some penalties that allowed sar War to
claw their way back in and momentum could have easily
shifted to some War's side, but it didn't. In New
Zealand again showed their class and their experience and holding one.
(13:39):
But yeah, someone missed a couple of opportunities that they
will definitely be ruining. And now someone now go up
against the Tonga, which is going to be an exciting matchup,
and New Zealand gets to rest up and look after
some of the niggles from such a bruising contest.
Speaker 2 (13:52):
I thought it was It's almost quite jarring a watching
Roger Tuybasischek in a Samoan jersey or in an opposition
team to the likes of you know, James Fisher, Harris
and Charts Nickel Kluseta. You know his teammates has great
mates and then he's playing against them. It must be
a little bit like, I know, not the same intensity,
but but like state of origin. They always call that
made against mate, don't they. And it must have been
(14:13):
quite an unusual occasion for Roger, even going to the
away changing room, which I presume they did at go Media,
even though as you say, it felt like Arpia just
doing things slightly differently at his home ground.
Speaker 4 (14:26):
Yeah.
Speaker 3 (14:26):
And I think that's the exciting thing nowadays about international
rugby league is that you'll probably see these moments like
Roger Twi Vasis check in a Sarmon jersey, and we
could see moments in the future where some of the
KIWIS players could done the blue or the red of
the Pacific Nations or vice versa, where Sarmon to can
play for New Zealand. And I guess that's just the
way that the eligibility rules are and I'm not sure
(14:49):
what how those rules will be dealt with in the future,
but for now, I mean, I think we just soak
it in. As fans, we get to see these awesome
clashes like Charms up against Roger and some of the
Panthers teammates going heads ahead in that matchup. So yeah,
I think as a fan, I think it's awesome for
the game to see that sort of stuff.
Speaker 2 (15:05):
Yep. Love to roll on the next couple of weekends
of games in the Pacific Championship Rugby League. We've got
an MPC finalist Otago beating Bay of plenty forty one seventeen,
Canterbury beating Hawks Bay forty three nineteen. So pretty similar
score lines in those two semi finals. It feels like
we've got the best two teams in the final, even
(15:26):
though they're both from the South Island.
Speaker 3 (15:28):
Yeah, I think so they are the two best teams
as much as I don't want to say that, but
I think it's going to be a rematch of that
classic Grand Filly shielding counter from about five weeks ago
or so when Otago they crawled back from fifteen points
down and snatched the thirty eight thirty six victory. And
now they get to hold onto the loggerwood for the summer,
and now they get to complete a fairy tale season
(15:51):
by winning the NPC title for the first time since
ninety ninety eight, and Canterbury, of course, could be looking
to maintain their dominance in the domestic field. So I'm
not sure which way you're leaning, Piney. I think you
and I are both neutral observers of this contest, but
I'm going to lean towards Otigo. I'd love to see
them finish that story of I guess how much of
a fairy tale it's been for them this season. But
(16:11):
I'm not sure which way you lean towards.
Speaker 2 (16:13):
Yeah, I sait on the radio yesterday. Unless you live
in christ Church, I think you want Otago to win,
don't you you know? And whether that's fair or not,
I think it's just a fact of life. And the
Ranfilly Shield challenge is so interesting to me and that
Otago won't have any fear going up the motorway to
play in christ Church because they know that they did that,
as you say, five weeks ago and left with the
Ranfurley Shield. By comparison, Canterbury will be stung man. They will.
(16:36):
I will take huge motivation from the fact that they
were beaten that day and will not under any circumstances
want it to happen again. The five past four kickoff
is really interesting to me as I understand it. Canterbury
were very very keen on the afternoon kickoff. I thought
Sky would just rule the roost and say it's a
seven o'clock kickoff. I wonder whether the five past four
(16:59):
actually favors Otago. They're probably the best attacking team in
the competition. I think daytime rugby suits them, doesn't it.
Speaker 3 (17:07):
I would think so as well, and I have no
issue if the afternoon kickoff. I think it's I guess
for Canterbury at least they had a bit of a
clash with the cricket last weekend, so they'll happily take
whatever slot suits them. But yeah, I actually think O
Tigo would do well in these conditions and during that
time slot. So I'm looking forward to a great game
(17:27):
with rugby. Nonetheless, if it was as high scoring as
it was five weeks ago, then we're definitely in for
a cracker to wrap up what's been an amazing NBC season.
Speaker 2 (17:34):
It certainly has, yet we need a fitting finale and
I'm sure we'll get it on Saturday afternoon five past
four in christ Church. Always great chatting sport with you
in the chamber, Elijah, thanks for stopping and as always.
Speaker 3 (17:44):
Yeah, no worries. Thank you, Biney News and Opinion.
Speaker 1 (17:48):
It's Sports Fix with Jason Vine.
Speaker 2 (17:52):
And that'll do it for the Sports Fix podcast for today.
Thank you for listening, for downloading, and for subscribing Sports
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(18:13):
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Speaker 1 (18:18):
For more from News Talk set B listen live on
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You're listening to a podcast from News Talks EDB. Follow
this and our wide range of podcasts now on iHeartRadio.
This is Sportsfix howard By News Talks EDB.
Speaker 2 (00:20):
Hello and welcome into the Sports Fix podcast. At the
start of a new week in association with GJ. Gardner Holmes,
New Zealan's most trusted homebuilder, I'm Jason Pine. On Monday,
October twenty at the back end of another jam packed
sporting weekend, including an absolutely tremendous day at go Media
(00:41):
Stadium yesterday. For that rugby league doubleheader, the Kiwi's against
some More the Kiwi Ferns against Samoa are two terrific
games of rugby league. Want to kick those around with
rugby league legend Tawan and Eko on the podcast today
and with the larger for you two a big league
fan in the chamber, we'll also ask the question have
we got the two best teams in the NPC Rugby Final?
(01:05):
And the latest in sports news coming your way as well,
so let's get into it. In other news, let's get
things underway with a look at some of the big
sports stories around today. Red Bulls Max for staff and
has continued his late season Formula one chart stap. It
crosses the line when's the US Role Prix and it
is Ben Max attacked and Max success. All we can
(01:27):
the four time world champion backing up sprint success with
victory from Pol at the US Grand Prixleum Lawson coming
home eleventh. The Breakers have gone down one oh four
eighty eight to the undefeated Melbourne United and Basketball's NVL
then ninth with two wins from eight games, but coach
but Terry Copenhan remaining upbeat.
Speaker 1 (01:45):
I think actually we played pretty solid.
Speaker 3 (01:47):
We challenged the best team in the league, the playing
excellent basketball and they shut the ball really well.
Speaker 2 (01:52):
But we get fading and a late winner in the
Liverpool Manchester United Premier League football match this morning at Anfield.
Speaker 3 (02:03):
Cal Ches United, Christ.
Speaker 2 (02:10):
We've gone just the ticket.
Speaker 1 (02:12):
It's Sports XV.
Speaker 2 (02:16):
You're listening to the sports Fix podcast. Absolutely brilliant day
at go Media Stadium yesterday for the Pacific Championship Rugby
League international double header New Zealand against Samoa in both
women's and men's International Rugby League and two terrific contests
with the Kiwis coming out narrow winners in both of them.
Rugby League legend towad Anko was in the crowd yesterday. Tawata,
(02:40):
thanks for joining us. Let's talk about the occasion. First
of all, how good was that yesterday?
Speaker 4 (02:44):
Oh mate? What a fantastic atmosphere party, you know, the
parm Warns twenty one thousand yesterday at go Media Stadium
and similar to the atmosphere at a Warrior's home game made.
It was absolutely fantastic. Great to see you all the
far Morns sooner and a few of the Kiwi supporters.
But what a fantastic atmosphere and great to have the
Pacific Championship back and also the Kiwis and the Sarmons
(03:08):
both blockbuster games as you saw yesterday.
Speaker 2 (03:11):
Point do it feel a bit like Hapier there at times?
Speaker 4 (03:15):
Oh mate? What about the far Moons. They came to
the party, they supported their team, they were singing, they
were chanting every time there was a trial or decision.
Was absolutely fantastic, mate. That's specific championships with the teams
you've got tong L, Sarmore and the Kiwis. Now, mate,
that's absolutely fantastic for this time of the year. After
the fantastic NRL season and then we roll into the
(03:36):
Pack Champs. Oh, it's just been absolutely fantastic.
Speaker 2 (03:39):
It seems like an obvious question, but how important is
it that the likes of Samoa and Tonga as well
as the Kiwi's get regular international games like this?
Speaker 4 (03:48):
Yeah? I think that's been always been the challenge, you know,
with the NRL and the long season that they have,
and it's always challenging when you've got a few players
injured and a couple of players after tough seasons in
the NRL in between the windows of World Cups and
having these build ups. Now, Piney, if you look at
the team's pain hass probably you know the best front
rower running around the moment, and you had James Fisher,
(04:12):
Harris and Moses Iodapher Solomona, Joe Tappini and the Kiwi pack.
But then you also had Junior Paulo, Josh Papolii playful
to some morn So both teams were stacked with top
grade NRL players. So just made for a fantastic game
last night.
Speaker 2 (04:31):
How do you reckon Roger tili vasishek would have felt
going to go media studying use today, you know, like
he's used to go in there for the Warriors and
getting you know, getting the home crowd and as we say,
there a lot of some morns. They're cheering for him.
But coming up against some of his mates, you know,
his teammates is good mates, the likes of James Fisher,
Harrison and Charns and others. That and that key we side.
How would he have how would he have sort of
negotiated that?
Speaker 4 (04:52):
Yeah, well, I think one of the cool things about
pointing is, you know, Roger played at the hoghest level,
played in the NRL, played at the rests. But actually
getting to represent you know, some more your heritage, your parents,
your family, that's another level. And that's a great thing
about the Pacific Championships. When you look at the players
and the quality Ryan or Roger two of Vasus Check,
(05:13):
Jerome Leuye, Blaze, Tar Lungey. These are the players that
are playing at the top of their game, and you
get to represent your family, your culture and your history
just adds a whole other dimension. There's a real connection
then in terms of what these players are playing for.
So yeah, while it's tough playing against your good old
teammates that you play for the Warriors, you go to
(05:34):
another level and you're playing for your family and playing
for your culture. So whilst it would have been tough
for Roger, I think you've still been inspired and motivated
to represent his culture, his heritage and his family, which
is absolutely fantastic.
Speaker 2 (05:48):
What do you think rugby League manages to create that
kind of connection the you know, that deep connection with
the games fans. Why do you think rugby League manages
so well to do that?
Speaker 4 (06:01):
I think one of the key things find is when
you look at our community, you look at our people,
they're really working class. You know, they got a lot
of farm warns, we got a lot of Tomlins, we
got a lot of Pacific Islanders. You know, Auckland is
the huge of the capital of the Pacific. You know
what I mean with all those people, you know they
left their home lands to come for a better life
in New Zealand, to work, to provide for their children,
(06:24):
you know, to make things better for them. So I
think you know, there's a real deep connection there. And
you know you look at the Tomlin side, Adam Vanua, Bloke,
Stefano Hutakeman, Ali Kator, all these guys at the top
of their game. So when you're representing your country, you
have that connection your your heritage. It's a real deep connection.
(06:45):
There's a real cultural I suppose connection to that, and
that's the point of difference, you know, with our Pacific people,
with our Maori people, and I think that's that's the
main that connection and engagement and representing your parents and
all those that have gone before you. So I think
that's the deep connection point.
Speaker 2 (07:03):
On the field, I actually thought Samoa in the means
game could have won that game. Maybe should have won
that game.
Speaker 4 (07:08):
Moy's go on either way. It was pretty close, right
down to the way you should have seen me in
the stand. I'm glad went on there. I'm good missing
by Brian Tohall scores a try any other time. He
never drops the ball, and they had a couple of
tries just allowed on the other side with Murray till
Unky too, so you know, it was a really close game.
But I think if you look at the forward packs,
New Zealand had a bit of momentum, but some outstanding
(07:30):
tries forty twenty from chance from Chaddel Harris Tavita. You
never see that old chance knock the ball back and
there's no one around, so we'll pick it up and
score under the post. It was just one of those
games that was on a nice edge. Not only the
men's game but the women's game was absolute classic. I'm
more winning twenty mill at half time and the Kiwi
(07:53):
Ferns came back to run them down in the second half.
So two outstanding games. But really looking forward Piney to
the tomlind game in a couple of weeks where we'll
be playing at Eden Parks and get your tickets. Come
along to the game second in November at Eden Park.
I think it's going to be a blockbuster when you've
got the best teams and you've got a little half back,
a guy called that's playing for the tong inside who's
(08:14):
probably the best number seven running around in the NRL
at the moment. He's going to be Isaiah for mate.
And then upfront you've got a massive ward pack too,
so it's going to be enough puff challenge for the
Kiwi boys.
Speaker 2 (08:27):
Yeah, I can't wait for Eden Park on Sunday, November two.
Tawana always great chatting rugby league with you, mate, Thanks
for taking the time.
Speaker 4 (08:34):
All good farty go to the lady Kiwi's Yeah.
Speaker 2 (08:37):
One of the league's great enthusiasts. Thanks t Nico joining
us on the sportspex podcast.
Speaker 1 (08:45):
Dissecting this sporting agenda. It's Sportspecs with Jason Vine.
Speaker 2 (08:51):
I had the Chancellor on Weekend Sport yesterday to chat
for the first time with lou Vincent and it's an
interview which has been resonating with me and I've been
thinking about a lot in the time since we all
know the story of lou Vincent. Of course, this unbelievable
cricketer who played many, many games for New Zealand across
(09:12):
the three formats, including one hundred plus One Day Internationals,
A swash buckling batsman, a wonderful fielder and somebody who
always had boundless energy, which of course you need in
elite cricket environments. Don't forget. He scored a Test century
on Test debut at the Whacker against Australia, a bowling
(09:33):
attack of Jason Gillespie, Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee and Shane
warn That is some formidable bowling attack to be facing
on Test debuo. But lou Vinson went out there and
scored a century, then of course lured into max fixing.
Given a life ban from all cricket that was relaxed
a short time ago, and now he's doing his best
(09:54):
to make amends by delivering his message to conferences and
symposiums and trying his best to make sure others don't
fall into the same trap that he did. Look, lu
Vincent made a big mistake, a big one. But the
most impressive thing is that he owned it. He owned
up to it. He didn't have to do that, he
(10:15):
didn't have to come clean. He could have kept a
lid on what he did and none of us would
be any the wiser. But it was clearly eating him
up inside, and confessing was what he needed to do
to find peace. As a result, he was handed the
heaviest possible sentence, a life ban from the sport that
he loved for his whole life. It's affected his life,
(10:38):
his livelihood, and cost him his relationships with his two daughters.
But when his appeal was heard, the man who heard
it said that lou Vinson showed the very highest levels
of contrition and remorse and the very best efforts to
make amends wherever possible. Look, lou Vinson can't change the past.
Much as I'm sure he would love to turn the
(10:58):
clock back, he can't. But he can react in a
positive fashion to what has happened. And I think as
Kiwi's we admire people who own their mistakes rather than
deflect them, rather than make excuses, rather than blame somebody
else for what has happened to us. We are all human,
none of us is perfect, and I think an admiration
(11:21):
for lou Vincent is just part of being a Kiwi.
Really sports fact, you're listening to the Sports Fixed podcast
and into the chamber we go, the people's chamber on
a Monday with a larger few. I know you've got
a lot of sports that are dear to your heart.
You love your rugby league. How good an occasion did
that look yesterday at go Media Stadium?
Speaker 3 (11:41):
Oh that was amazing, Piney. I mean you'd be mistaken
for thinking mounts mart tend and to up here for
a brief afternoon there with all the passionate Sarmon fans
and obviously a strong contingent of Kiwi fans who are there,
just made for an amazing atmosphere, a boisterous crowd. And
both games they were on offer yesterday with the Kiwi
fans against some More and the Kiwis against some More,
(12:03):
are both outstanding matches. So a great match day in Nonetheless.
Speaker 2 (12:07):
They were, weren't they. I think that's a salient point
and that I guess some days gone by when New
Zealand played some more in rugby league. I mean, it
probably wouldn't have happened in women's rugby league, but when
it happened in men's rugby league, you think, okay, well
that's going to be a bit of a blowout, and
in the past it has been but two competitive games.
How important is it, man and how cool is it
that when two teams collide like that and men's all
(12:30):
women's rugby league, we know we're going to get really competitive,
cracking contests.
Speaker 3 (12:35):
Yeah, I think shout out to the women first of
all for setting the tone for the day and I
don't think many people expected some more to run out
to a twenty nil lead at halftime, and obviously the
Qui Friens turned it into a contest which made it
such an exciting occasion. And yeah, the Qiwis at the
end of the day showed their class. But I think
it also showed the growth of the Sarmon team in
(12:57):
the women's game. We've seen it in the men's game
with Sarmour and tongue and the players that they've been
able to bring over to boost their squads. But now
we're staying to see that in the women's game. I
think yes, today's test between the Salmon Woman and the
Kiwi fans was a great sign of that.
Speaker 2 (13:13):
In the means game, Samoa could have maybe should have
won that game.
Speaker 3 (13:16):
Aye, definitely, they had their chances in the second half.
I think credits in New Zealand's goal line defense in
that second half. Quite a few errors that New Zealand
made and conceded some penalties that allowed sar War to
claw their way back in and momentum could have easily
shifted to some War's side, but it didn't. In New
Zealand again showed their class and their experience and holding one.
(13:39):
But yeah, someone missed a couple of opportunities that they
will definitely be ruining. And now someone now go up
against the Tonga, which is going to be an exciting matchup,
and New Zealand gets to rest up and look after
some of the niggles from such a bruising contest.
Speaker 2 (13:52):
I thought it was It's almost quite jarring a watching
Roger Tuybasischek in a Samoan jersey or in an opposition
team to the likes of you know, James Fisher, Harris
and Charts Nickel Kluseta. You know his teammates has great
mates and then he's playing against them. It must be
a little bit like, I know, not the same intensity,
but but like state of origin. They always call that
made against mate, don't they. And it must have been
(14:13):
quite an unusual occasion for Roger, even going to the
away changing room, which I presume they did at go Media,
even though as you say, it felt like Arpia just
doing things slightly differently at his home ground.
Speaker 4 (14:26):
Yeah.
Speaker 3 (14:26):
And I think that's the exciting thing nowadays about international
rugby league is that you'll probably see these moments like
Roger Twi Vasis check in a Sarmon jersey, and we
could see moments in the future where some of the
KIWIS players could done the blue or the red of
the Pacific Nations or vice versa, where Sarmon to can
play for New Zealand. And I guess that's just the
way that the eligibility rules are and I'm not sure
(14:49):
what how those rules will be dealt with in the future,
but for now, I mean, I think we just soak
it in. As fans, we get to see these awesome
clashes like Charms up against Roger and some of the
Panthers teammates going heads ahead in that matchup. So yeah,
I think as a fan, I think it's awesome for
the game to see that sort of stuff.
Speaker 2 (15:05):
Yep. Love to roll on the next couple of weekends
of games in the Pacific Championship Rugby League. We've got
an MPC finalist Otago beating Bay of plenty forty one seventeen,
Canterbury beating Hawks Bay forty three nineteen. So pretty similar
score lines in those two semi finals. It feels like
we've got the best two teams in the final, even
(15:26):
though they're both from the South Island.
Speaker 3 (15:28):
Yeah, I think so they are the two best teams
as much as I don't want to say that, but
I think it's going to be a rematch of that
classic Grand Filly shielding counter from about five weeks ago
or so when Otago they crawled back from fifteen points
down and snatched the thirty eight thirty six victory. And
now they get to hold onto the loggerwood for the summer,
and now they get to complete a fairy tale season
(15:51):
by winning the NPC title for the first time since
ninety ninety eight, and Canterbury, of course, could be looking
to maintain their dominance in the domestic field. So I'm
not sure which way you're leaning, Piney. I think you
and I are both neutral observers of this contest, but
I'm going to lean towards Otigo. I'd love to see
them finish that story of I guess how much of
a fairy tale it's been for them this season. But
(16:11):
I'm not sure which way you lean towards.
Speaker 2 (16:13):
Yeah, I sait on the radio yesterday. Unless you live
in christ Church, I think you want Otago to win,
don't you you know? And whether that's fair or not,
I think it's just a fact of life. And the
Ranfilly Shield challenge is so interesting to me and that
Otago won't have any fear going up the motorway to
play in christ Church because they know that they did that,
as you say, five weeks ago and left with the
Ranfurley Shield. By comparison, Canterbury will be stung man. They will.
(16:36):
I will take huge motivation from the fact that they
were beaten that day and will not under any circumstances
want it to happen again. The five past four kickoff
is really interesting to me as I understand it. Canterbury
were very very keen on the afternoon kickoff. I thought
Sky would just rule the roost and say it's a
seven o'clock kickoff. I wonder whether the five past four
(16:59):
actually favors Otago. They're probably the best attacking team in
the competition. I think daytime rugby suits them, doesn't it.
Speaker 3 (17:07):
I would think so as well, and I have no
issue if the afternoon kickoff. I think it's I guess
for Canterbury at least they had a bit of a
clash with the cricket last weekend, so they'll happily take
whatever slot suits them. But yeah, I actually think O
Tigo would do well in these conditions and during that
time slot. So I'm looking forward to a great game
(17:27):
with rugby. Nonetheless, if it was as high scoring as
it was five weeks ago, then we're definitely in for
a cracker to wrap up what's been an amazing NBC season.
Speaker 2 (17:34):
It certainly has, yet we need a fitting finale and
I'm sure we'll get it on Saturday afternoon five past
four in christ Church. Always great chatting sport with you
in the chamber, Elijah, thanks for stopping and as always.
Speaker 3 (17:44):
Yeah, no worries. Thank you, Biney News and Opinion.
Speaker 1 (17:48):
It's Sports Fix with Jason Vine.
Speaker 2 (17:52):
And that'll do it for the Sports Fix podcast for today.
Thank you for listening, for downloading, and for subscribing Sports
Fix subscribers. Of course, we'll find a fresh episode in
their podcast feed at around about the same time tomorrow
and every weekday. And for more from News Talk ZB
Sport check out Sports Talk weeknights between seven and eight
and on the weekends weekend Sport Saturday and Sunday between
(18:13):
midday and three Sports Fex.
Speaker 1 (18:18):
For more from News Talk set B listen live on
air or online, and keep our shows with you wherever
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