The Upper Clutha premier rugby side (the Rams) made it three wins from three games in the Central Otago Premier Rugby Competition with a 22-18 win over Arrowtown in Wānaka last night (Thursday May 5).

The Rams looked to be in control holding a 16-6 lead at half time but a resurgent Arrowtown narrowed the deficit to just one point in the 60th minute (19-18) after two tries, both from lineout drives.

“We came today prepped and ready and had practiced well all week and we came into it firing,” Ram’s captain Lachie Garrick said.

“Arrowtown are a good strong side so we’re happy to come away with the win.”

The Rams were superb in the first 40 minutes; physical in defense and aggressive at the breakdown. When under pressure their exit play was faultless and with ball in hand they found space for their talented backline.

The Rams took the lead in the 34th minute when inside centre Oliver Stirling barged over for the Rams’ only try which was converted by halfback Brady Kingan. Kingan kicked three penalties in the first half to give the local side a handy buffer at the break.

Arrowtown lifted immediately in the second half carrying strongly and playing more direct. The Rams began falling off first up tackles as Arrowtown’ big ball runners mounted wave after wave of attack.

Arrowtown were rewarded with two tries, but the boot of Brady Kingan kept the scoreboard ticking over with two more penalties for the Rams to secure a well earned victory.

For the Rams none were better than Jake Burtenshaw. The No. 8 seemed to be everywhere on the park making an impact with his physicality and ball carrying.

Inside centre Oliver Stirling controlled play in the midfield and did more than his fair share carrying the ball into contact. At halfback Kingan’s distribution was flawless and his 17 points with the boot determined the outcome of the match.

The Rams produced a better start to the match this week and played with intent in the first half. Their close in defense was found vulnerable under a barrage of attack in the second half and they relinquished too much possession as their lineout woes continued.

Matches are being played during the week this week to allow players to participate in the opening of the duck shooting season tomorrow (Saturday May 7).

The Rams next match will be a clash of the only unbeaten sides in the competition when the Rams play Wakatipu on Saturday May 14 in Wānaka.

In other matches:

Cromwell 10 Wakatipu 38

Alexandra win by default over Cromwell Cavaliers

Maniototo play Matakanui today (Friday May 6).

PHOTO: Black Peak Photography