After coming off the bench for majority of 2014, Martin Taupau started in all but one of his 21 appearances under new Head Coach Jason Taylor in season 2015.
Taupau was on track to play two consecutive seasons without missing a game, until suspension in Round 20 meant the Kiwi international would miss the next three games.
He later returned in Round 24 against the Cronulla Sharks to finish the season, scoring a further two tries in the remaining three fixtures, to take his season tally of tries to four.
After his selection in New Zealand's successful Four Nations campaign last year, the lock forward was again chosen by Stephen Kearney to play in the ANZAC Test against Australia in May. The Kiwis would go on to win the match for the first time since 1998.
To finish another strong season in the NRL, Taupau was selected by Kearney in the Kiwis' 23-man squad to take on England in a three-Test series later this year.
Year in Numbers
Games |
Tries |
Goals |
Points |
Metres |
Runs |
Tackles |
21 |
4 |
- |
16 |
2302m |
226 |
573 |
Best Game — Round 14 vs. Rabbitohs at ANZ Stadium
With key players Robbie Farah and Aaron Woods away on State of Origin duty, the Wests Tigers needed their forwards to aim up against defending premiers South Sydney.
Taupau led the charge and produced his finest effort since joining the Club, with 13 runs for 140 metres including two barnstorming tries, as well as 23 tackles in his side's win.
Season Highlight — Round 14 vs. Rabbitohs at ANZ Stadium
There's little doubt that Taupau's two tries against South Sydney were among the top highlights for Wests Tigers fans in 2015, and while his first try — fending off Alex Johnston — was perhaps more iconic, his second try showed just how deadly he can be.
Receiving the ball from halfback Luke Brooks, the barnstorming forward ran the ball ten metres out from South Sydney’s line before fending off four defenders to score his second try of the night in the corner — much to the delight of his teammates and home fans.
Milestones and Achievements
50th NRL game — Round 5 vs. Parramatta Eels (ANZ Stadium, (6/4/15)
Rep. Honours — New Zealand Kiwis (ANZAC Test, England tour)
