Kelepi Tanginoa Dream Team place thoroughly deserved, says Wakefield Trinity head coach Chris Chester

CHRIS CHESTER was “over the moon” when he heard star Wakefield Trinity forward Kelepi Tanginoa had been included in the 2020 Super League Dream Team.
Wakefield Trinity head coach Chris Chester. Picture: SWpix.com.Wakefield Trinity head coach Chris Chester. Picture: SWpix.com.
Wakefield Trinity head coach Chris Chester. Picture: SWpix.com.

This year’s Dream Team was named on Sunday, with Tanginoa the sole inclusion from Trinity.

The 26-year-old has undoubtedly been Wakefield’s stand-out player in his first full season with the club.

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He arrived at Belle Vue partway through the 2019 campaign and this year played in all of Trinity’s league fixtures as he made 1901 metres, took 258 carries, produced 55 tackle busts and made 479 tackles of his own.

The former Manley Sea Eagles player had been on Chester’s radar for a number of years, with the Trinity coach even attempting to sign him when he was in charge at Hull Kingston Rovers.

“I think he has had an excellent 18 months. He hasn’t missed a game for us this year,” said Chester.

“He has just been a breath of fresh air, he has been an unbelievable guy to coach. I am over the moon he has been recognised as one of the best back-rowers in the competition.It is a great credit to Kelepi and all the hard work he has put in.

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“He is a fan favourite and is certainly a favourite of mine. I fought tooth and nail to bring him over from Australia.

Wakefield Trinity forward Kelepi Tanginoa. Picture: SWpix.com.Wakefield Trinity forward Kelepi Tanginoa. Picture: SWpix.com.
Wakefield Trinity forward Kelepi Tanginoa. Picture: SWpix.com.

“I have tried on three of four occasions in the last six years, even when I was at Hull KR, to bring him over. I am pleased that everything fell into place midway through last season.

“He is a player we want to build a side around. His form has been unbelievable. He is a nine out of 10 every week, he very rarely has an off day and he is a really good person off the field as well.

“We are just pleased he has got the recognition he deserved.”

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Tanginoa signed a new four-year contract with Wakefield earlier this month and Chester is hopeful of concluding more business before the end of the year.

He added: “There are players we are talking to here and overseas and we have got some guys who are off-contract as well.

“It is a busy time. There will be some announcements within the next few weeks with regards to the players who will be staying the players who will be leaving. There are players we want to bring in, with good quality players available from here and overseas, it is just about staying patient.”

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