The Upper Clutha premier rugby team (the Rams) suffered their second loss in the Central Otago Premier Rugby Competition on Saturday (May 29), going down 14-0 against Wakatipu.

The game was played in Queenstown in freezing and wet conditions and the Rams seldom threatened the Wakatipu line in an error ridden performance which turned over precious possession.

“Possession is something we’ve been wanting but haven’t been able to gain in the past couple of games. It is something you have to earn and we haven’t been able to do that,” Rams head coach Garry-John Hape said.

“It’s disappointing but the ticker up front was really great but we need to be able to capitalise. That’s what Wakatipu did, credit to them.”

The Rams played into a noticeable breeze in the first half and held Wakatipu scoreless for the first 22 minutes in a solid defensive display. As the half came to a close the pressure told and Wakatipu kicked two penalties and scored a try to lead at the break 11-0.

With the breeze at their back the Rams had the best of the weather but their errors and a controlled Wakatipu performance into the wind meant the Rams were seldom in position to threaten the Wakatipu line.

Wakatipu added a second half penalty in the 46th minute to lead 14-0.

The Ram’s best attacking move saw halfback Jai Baxter brought down just a metre short of the Wakatipu line with the tackle resulting in a suspected broken leg to the veteran halfback.

The match was suspended for 40 minutes while Jai was attended to. The last 15 minutes of the match was played in very dark light and while the Rams' effort was willing, Wakatipu’s defensive effort was outstanding.

The Rams forwards were dominant at scrum time and gave a committed 80 minute effort. The front row of Mathew Templeton (prop), Scott Cunningham (hooker) and captain Fergus Smith (prop) had fine games. They were well supported by loose forwards Lachy Garrick and Byron Aitken.

The backline, usually a strength, seldom troubled Wakatipu and some gapping defensive lapses in midfield will need to be addressed before the Rams next match. 

The loss puts the Rams on equal points with Wakatipu but they hold on to second place in the competition by virtue of a superior points differential. The team finishing second will secure an all important home playoff which all hinges on the final round of the regular competition on Saturday June 12.

In that round Wakatipu will play last place Cromwell Cavaliers and the expectation of a big Wakatipu win puts pressure on the Rams performance against Alexandra. The Rams may need at least a 25 point win to secure a home playoff on Saturday June 19.

The Rams next match against Alexandra will be played at Tarras for the Neil Purvis trophy and Phillip Cowie shield on Saturday June 12, kickoff 2.30pm.

Round scores:

* the Wakatipu v Upper Clutha score was 14-0

Competition Table:

PHOTO: Wanaka App