Strong Tahs defeat Rams
Saturday 23rd May 2009
1st Grade: Tech/Waratahs 29 vs Camden 5
2nd Grade: Tech/Waratahs 12 vs Camden 26
3rd Grade: Tech/Waratahs 15 vs Camden 10
A Tech-Tahs team which is slowly but surely reminding everyone of the 2005 squad that took the Illawarra 1st grade trophy, ground out a classy victory over a young and inexperienced Camden Rams.
For long periods of the game Camden appeared within reach and the 29-5 final score line was not reflective of the closeness of the match. Camden endured huge deficits in possession and field position and the first try allowed was more than 30 minutes into the first half. In the second half Tech scored early but in reply debutant hooker Andrew Black charged down a kick and scrambled on a loose ball to score and keep Camden within a sniff. However turn-over ball and what appeared to be a lack of options in attack meant Camden could not manage to cross the line again and the game slipped from their hands. Tech finished out 5 tries to 1 winner, 29-5. Camden’s best were all new additions to the top squad which include Black, centre Lee Russell and lock Mark Morris.
The surge that is second grade continued with another classy display of attacking rugby. The win, which moves reserves into second place on the ladder, was ensured with early tries to fullback Adam Austin and winger Rhys Dodson after crisp backline movements. The second half lead to a moderately closer affair with lock Michael Weightman barging his way over, and Austin picking up his second out wide, but Tech coming home with two late tries. The ease in the tries must be somewhat concerning and second grade will be hoping to provide a clean sheet next game against Vikings but alas a solid 26-12 victory was the day's happiest result. Camden was led extremely well around the park by Weightman and ever-present flanker Nathan Prior. Fly-half Alex Ban was particularly classy leading his backs around the park with fluidness and playing a big part in several tries.
At the start of the day, on a muddy field, Tech took a much coveted scalp in the high-flying Camden third grade squad in a sloppy affair. Due to a number of last minute changes, an unsettled backline was disjointed in both attack and defence. Early tries were gifted to the Tech side with a turnover and a defensive lapse. A penalty goal by centre Emron Reedy kept Camden in striking distance. After halftime tech again increased the lead but their lack of conversions meant Camden still could wage one final assault. Centre Nathan Murphy crossed out wide and after the conversion it leaft the Rams only a few minutes to snatch the lead. Albeit for a massive attacking effort and what looked like a breakaway try by flanker Taz Kranny, Camden just pulled up short losing 15-10. Camden’s best were skipper Matt Searle who carried the ball with tenacity and strength, half Shane Neasy and winger Matt Tagg.
Next week at Home 1’s and 2’s take on Vikings, with the top squad aiming to restore some pride and reserves planning to take their streak to 5 games.