The Upper Clutha premier rugby team (the Rams) continued their unbeaten season yesterday (Saturday May 27) with an emphatic 40-7 win over Alexandra at the Upper Clutha Rugby Club.

The win catapults the Rams 11 points clear of second place Cromwell, at the top of the Central Otago Premier Rugby Competition.

“We know what brand of rugby we want to play and we’re nearly there,” Rams’ head coach Garry-John Hape said.

“We’ve just got to keep building each week.”

The Rams ran in four tries in the first half, dominating possession and territory, and controlling the ball for long periods of play. They led 28-0 at the halftime break.

Alexandra lifted their effort in the first part of the second half scoring in the sixtieth minute to close the gap to 28-7.

The Rams struck back immediately with two tries in quick succession to put the match beyond doubt.

Rams’ open side flanker Callum Grayling was busy in defense and carried well. Prop Ben Mckeich continued to impress and along with captain Lackie Garrick had an energetic game.

In the backline second five Oliver Stirling was influential and showed the best of his decision-making skills.

The Rams’ performances this season have not gone unnoticed with three players selected to trial for the Otago National Provincial Championship side; Lackie Garrick (lock), Tristian Taylor (halfback), and Reece White (No. 8) will have the opportunity to be selected for Otago in a trial match on June 14 in Dunedin.

Rams’ lock Lachie Garrick (No. 5) is one of three Rams players selected to trial for the Otago NPC team.

The Rams’ next match is against Matakanui Combined in Omakau on Saturday June 3, kick off 2.30pm.

Points scorers: 

Tries: Reuben Barnett, Ben Mckeich, Reece White, Oliver Stirling, Sean Murray, Adam Breen 

Conversions: Brady Kingan (5)

In other matches:

Cromwell 17 Maniototo 22

Matakanui 50 Arrowtown 29

PHOTO: Steve McArthur