The Upper Clutha Premier Rugby team (the Rams) delivered a dominant 65-7 win over Matakanui Combined in the first round of the 2024 Central Otago Premier Rugby Competition on Saturday (March 23).

The Rams entertained a good crowd at the Upper Clutha Rugby Club, running in 11 tries. 

“It was good to have the first hit out, a bit dusty in parts but we’ll take the win,” Rams' head coach Alex Dickson said.

“I’m happy with the way we finished our tries.”

The Rams were seldom tested and put a wealth of possession to good use, playing with width and precision.

The accuracy of the ball movement was a feature of the side's performance as was the discipline to maintain structure when the match was comfortably in the bag.

For the Rams, none were better than loose forward Tait Scurr. The No.6 was omnipresent, displaying a range of skills and quality decision-making. Tait had a hand in several tries and was rewarded with one himself.

Lock Caleb Moody impressed with his work-rate as did midfielder Oliver Stirling. Fullback Milan Martinovich was a constant threat on attack.

The competition takes a break over Easter and the Rams next match will be on April 6 against defending champions Alexandra in Alexandra.

Points:

Tries: Eseroma Viba Tuidraki (2), Milan Martinovich (2), Brady Kingan (2), Caleb Dixon, Caleb Moody, Sean Murray, Tait Scurr, Tomas Jarman.  

Conversions: Brady Kingan (5)

In other matches:

Arrowtown 26 Alexandra 39

Cromwell 17 Wakatipu 19

PHOTO: Steve McArthur