Joining Wests Tigers after being let go by the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, Martin Taupau immediately made his presence felt at the joint venture Club with his powerful running and aggressive defence in the middle of the field. The 24-year-old was rewarded with his international debut for New Zealand in the ANZAC Test, and built a reputation as one of the most explosive front-row forwards in the game in 2014.
One of just two Wests Tigers players to feature in every game of 2014, Taupau will certainly be another budding star to watch for as he heads into season 2015.
2014 Facts & Figures
Games |
Tries |
Assists |
Points |
Metres |
Tackles |
24 |
3 |
0 |
12 |
2202 |
434 |
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Top Try — Round 2 vs. Gold Coast Titans
After being denied a four-pointer earlier in the match for a controversial knock-on, Taupau got it right in the second half with a brilliant wrap-around move involving Robbie Farah and Aaron Woods allowing the forward to barge over the line untouched — showcasing his explosive footwork and attacking potency all in one movement.
Best Match — Round 3 vs. South Sydney Rabbitohs
Coming off the interchange bench to take one of the most dominant forward packs in the game, Taupau powered his way for 131m off just eight hit-ups, and made 16 tackles as well. That performance would pave the way for a shock 25-16 victory for Wests Tigers, as well as a strong run of form for Taupau, as he chalked up 125m (Round 4) and 143m (Round 5) on the ground in his next two performances.
Magic Moment — Round 5 vs. Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles
After David Nofoaluma scored in the corner to give Wests Tigers a strong lead, Taupau brought the ball back off the kickoff with such vigor and purpose that he broke clean through the line — racing away to collect 50m before being tackled. That run paved the way for a strong set for the hosts, which saw Chris Lawrence crash over moments later.
