The Highlanders great was in a satisfied mood as he reflected on the team’s 29-24 win over the Crusaders in their last preseason game in Invercargill on Thursday.
"The first half wasn’t always perfect, and there were a few missed opportunities," Smith said.
"But I think you saw our ability to stick to what we’ve been putting in place on the training field. I thought we worked our way into the game really well and that opened up a few more opportunities in the second half.
"We were pretty keen to put out a good performance in front of an Invercargill crowd."
A feature of the game was the Highlanders’ dominance of the second half, built on their fitness and impact from the bench.
They had been working harder than ever in the offseason and built confidence in their ability to pounce in key moments, Smith said.
They were also willing to chance their arm, with the aim of opening teams up.
"That’s our intent — to use the ball when it’s there — and I know people are keen to see a bit of attacking rugby and a reflection of what our region’s all about."
No player epitomised that more on Thursday than new Highlanders winger Caleb Tangitau.
It is very early days but his blend of pace, acceleration and attacking verve will have southern fans eager to see more once the real season begins.
"He played really well," Smith acknowledged.
"It was the willingness to get his hands on the ball and impact the game that I thought was pretty special.
"That was a big factor in our game and how we wanted to play."
Smith also hailed the versatility of co-captain Timoci Tavatavanawai, as the powerful winger shone in the No 12 jersey for the Highlanders.
He may see more time in the midfield with Thomas Umaga-Jensen out for another couple of weeks and Sam Gilbert back in his old fullback position with Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens sidelined for an extended period.
"His physicality, you know — that’s a bit of a point of difference that he brings to our team," Smith said.
"He gets more of an opportunity to get involved and get his hands on the ball, and you saw how he can play when he does that because he’s just such a threat if teams don’t take care of him."
Smith was desperate not to tempt fate but reported the Highlanders had no major injuries from the Crusaders game.
