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LUZ ZUNIGA
The Mako received a hero’s welcome when they returned victorious, scoring consecutive final victories in the 10 Miter Cup.
Mako’s players arrived to receive applause and praise at Nelson Airport after their victory against Auckland.
Fans and family had been informed that the team would fly to Nelson at 11.15am on Sunday, and the crowd began to build before 11am.
The crowd grew closer to the arrival gates before the team finally showed their faces at 11:40 a.m. and entered the airport like champions, brandishing the 10 Miter Cup.
The crowd went wild. Cheers, whistles and applause filled the air.
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There were hugs and handshakes for the team, and fans were able to identify their favorites for a photo or autograph on their rugby ball.
LUZ ZUNIGA / Things
Luke and Jake Crosby with Mako Anton Segner and rugby supporter Murray Sturgeon.
Mako’s wing position player Mark Telea said the support was “unreal.”
“It’s a great feeling to come home and everyone who supports us.”
The team defeated Auckland 13-12 at Eden Park on Saturday, taking home the 10 Miter Cup for two years in a row.
LUZ ZUNIGA
The Mako received a very warm welcome in Nelson when they returned home with the 10 Miter Cup.
Telea said the match was a “tough effort in the end.”
“It could have gone both ways, but we came out victorious.”
He said the teammates had a “good bond” so they were appreciating the final moments they had.
LUZ ZUNIGA / Things
Young Mako fans were excited to meet their sports heroes. Mako Isaac Ross with Satoru Fujii, while Satoru’s father, Iwao Fujii, captures the moment.
“This team is not going to be the same next year, so we will enjoy it together as much as we can.”
The assembled sympathizers were young and old.
8-year-old Ayla Marfell wore a signed Mako shirt. He said he wanted to “see the boys” to “encourage them to get off the plane.”
Maree Smith was waiting with a sign in the shape of Mako to welcome her nephew, Captain David Havili, back home.
She said the victory was “not expected”.
Mako player Taina Fox-Matamua said it was good to see fans “stuck” despite the 30 minute wait.
As for the victory, he said it “made me cry.”
“Two years in a row, just like that. That’s all she wrote. “
