Haven sign ex-Town star Manihera
Last updated 10:28, Saturday, 03 May 2008
Whitehaven have sensationally swooped for veteran Kiwi half-back Tane Manihera.
Manihera, 32 – who has played for rugby union at Wigton for the last two seasons – will team up again with former Kiwi A and Town coach Ged Stokes who is now in charge at the Recre hotseat.
Stokes who has signed Manihera until the end of the season, told News & Star Sport: “Since I’ve been at Haven I’ve been looking around to see what players are on the market.
“Looking at our squad, we have Carl Rudd, and two very young half-backs in Mark Bainbridge (21) and Gregg McNally (17), and no back up.
“We tried to sign French international James Wynne but his wage demands were absolutely unbelievable and were that of Super League clubs. We are not going to pay that sort of money.
“When Tane’s season at Wigton was finished, we jumped at the chance as he will also be able to pass on what he knows to the youngsters,” he added.
“There’s logic behind the signing of a very experienced player, and when our fans understand that we have no cover, they will understand what a good signing he is for the club.”
And Haven’s commercial director Mike Graham who penned the deal, said: “We are delighted to sign Tane and his experience and natural ability will be invaluable.
“He has played at Widnes, Barrow and Workington and done exceptionally well with those clubs.
“Tane was training within 30 minutes of signing for us on Thursday night. That just shows how keen he is. He will be a considerable asset to the club.”
Fans will have a chance to see Manihera in action this afternoon, when Haven’s Reserve Grade take on Widnes at the Recreation Ground (2.30pm ko) but he is unlikely to feature in Haven’s game against Leigh on Monday.
TICKETS for Haven’s Challenge Cup fifth round tie at Wigan Warriors on Monday, May 12 (7.30pm ko) will go on sale at the club’s office from Tuesday to Friday (9am to 2pm).
They will also be available from the bar on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights (5pm to 8pm) and on Saturday from 9am to 12noon).
Reduced ticket prices are available to season ticket holders but they MUST produce the special voucher A to get the discount.
Prices are (all East Stand seats): Adults £14 (season ticket holders £12); Over-65s £7 (£6); Students £7 (£6); Under-16s (£1).
