Key players back for Makos

Three key players will be back in a Tasman Makos uniform next season after Kade Poki, Quentin MacDonald and Robbie Malneek were re-signed last week.

Tasman Rugby Union chief executive Peter Barr confirmed today that all three players had been signed to one or two-year contracts, though he was unable to release specific details.

Barr said the three players had attracted a lot of interest from other unions, especially given Tasman's tumultuous off-season, and he was pleased they had decided to remain with Tasman.

"They're all skilled players who got a lot of attention from other unions. It was highly competitive and there was a lot of pressure for them to sign somewhere.

"Their loyalty played a big part in their staying as did having Kieran (Keane) and Leon (MacDonald) on the coaching staff," Barr said.

All three players were key members of last year's Makos team that placed ninth.

Poki has 15 Super rugby caps and is a member of this year's Crusaders squad, while MacDonald has been named to the Crusaders wider training squad.

Malneek is an original Mako from the 2006 season and Barr said he was a key member of the team's leadership group.

"They're all local lads so their signing sends a good message to young aspiring rugby players in the region – you can play Air New Zealand Cup rugby here and go on to higher honours.

"You don't have to leave and go and play for Wellington or Canterbury," Barr said.

Barr also confirmed the Makos have signed Canterbury and Crusaders halfback Steve Alfeld. The signings bring the total number of Makos under contract for next season to 10.

Chris Jack, Ben Franks, Hamish Cochrane, Jonathan Poff, Joe Wheeler and James Marshall are also signed.

Barr said Tasman was in negotiations with a number of other players from both the Tasman region and outside and expected the Makos to have a final squad of 28.

- The Marlborough Express