Have you ever seen the Angry Rugby Fan? You know the type, veins standing up in the neck, the rage bubbling underneath the surface. The white knuckles as he grips the seat, trying to stop himself from standing up and launching a torrent of abuse. Then the explosion of expletives as yet another stupid mistake gifts points to the opposing side.

The Fan has a confession to make. On Friday night he was that Angry Rugby Fan. Having prided myself on staying calm through the twists and turns of a Steamers game, the first half in New Plymouth was too much for me. I’ve seen Bay games when we have been awful (Southland, 2007), ones which have been cruelly snatched away (Hawke’s Bay, 2009) and occasions when we have been outclassed (most Canterbury games except 2009). However the Fan has never been as angry as last Friday in New Plymouth.

The Fan is still unable to explain how the Steamers dominated the first half against Taranaki, had the majority of territory and possession, broke the defensive line repeatedly and then walked off with a 24-7 half-time deficit. Taranaki’s second try alone should qualify the Bay Steamers for charitable status with the IRD. Even the Taranaki fans looked a little embarrassed to have such a comfortable lead and their scoreless second half showed just how generous the visitors had been.

In the second half, we continued to create opportunities but spilt the ball or else resorted to collective team panic when in sight of the try line. Phil Burleigh ran beautifully all night but he looks his best in the number 12 jersey.

The optimist in me believes that we aren’t so far away from being a good side. There is a missing piece to the jigsaw and that piece will hopefully appear in the next game. Step up, Mr Michael Delany. You are the key to our whole season, please don’t feel under any pressure!

Our star import Lelia Masaga has not delivered to date but the Fan remains hopeful of some fireworks from him in the coming weeks. There were signs in the second half that he was getting back to his tackle-busting best. I suspect that all he needs is a little confidence and he will be the weapon that he has been in the past for the Chiefs and Counties-Manukau.

Speaking of imports, an appearance on the field of our front-row acquisitions from Tasman would be most welcome.

The Fan is hoping for some dry weather for Sunday and North Harbour’s visit to Rotorua. They are not world-beaters but are more than capable of taking advantage of any generous gifts we throw their way. With trips to Canterbury and Wellington on the horizon, every home game is a must-win for us to retain a chance of a Top Seven finish and a place at the top table next year.