The inside back played a leading role in Keas 20-12 win against Warrigals, their first of the 2014-15 Mount Isa Rugby Association.

Keas coach Nick Ngatai was pleased how his troops translated what they had been working on at practice into the match.

“We spoke about trying to impose ourselves on Warrigals and taking the game to them, especially in the early exchanges,” he said.

“It’s all about continuing to focus on what we do at training and identifying areas of improvement each week.”

Ngatai was proud of how his team defended that pressure from the Dingoes in the opening quarter, which saw Warrigals bomb a couple of tries.

“The way the boys weathered the storm in the first quarter, and to not allow a try during that period was exceptional,” he said.

“On the back of the tireless work of our forwards, our backs were able to get some ball and work our way back into the match.”

Keas’ Manihera’s huge kick from inside his own 22 into Warrigals 22 was the catalyst of Keas scoring first points.

“Kaine’s kicks gave our forwards a chance to have a breather on numerous occasions, which is important in these tight games,” Ngatai said.

“Off the ensuing play, we muscled up and forced the ball over the line for a pushover try.”

After the break, Warrigals hit back with two quick tries to outside back Ryan Cassidy, to lead 12-5 with just over a quarter of the match remaining.

“Warrigals are a really good side, with plenty of pace in the backline, which thankfully we were able to contain,” Ngatai said.

“As a young team, the character we showed as a unit was really pleasing.”

Keas managed to score two tries in the final quarter of the match, with fullback Lewis Mothe sealing the win for Keas.

“Both Lewis and Kaine Manihera complement our forwards and inject some real class into our backline,” Ngatai said.

“I thought the performances of Tyson Kahukiwa and George Hama were particularly strong, along with our whole forward pack.”

Euros were forced to forfeit their match against Cloncurry Mount Isa Rugby Union, due to personal circumstances for the team.