Match Report - Camden v Tech-Waratahs

The Camden Rams have gone down to a classy Tech-Waratahs outfit in the opening round of the Illawarra District Rugby Union premiership on Saturday afternoon.

The visitors from northern Wollongong came out firing early, and showed their intent, putting the home side on the back foot before running out 41-12 winners on a fine Saturday afternoon.

Camden had precious few opportunities across the 80 minutes inside the Tech-Tahs 22, and when they did have them, weren’t able to capitalise on them, blowing several good chances. The Tech-Waratahs forward pack was much stronger physically than the Camden eight, but the Rams’ pack was more than capable of matching their bigger opponents throughout the afternoon, as the scrum battle was fairly even all day.

Tech-Waratahs scored two tries early on, with their outside backs causing problems down the Camden right. The Camden defence had their work cut out for them, with Josh Head ending the afternoon with 4 tries on the day. The visitors led 12-0 at the break, and the Rams would have been optimistic knowing they were still in the contest, but the home side weren’t able to follow the instructions from the coaching staff.

Camden scored their points after halftime, with fly half Michael Midson scoring a nice solo try, and Josh Institoris scoring a consolation try late in the game, adding some respect to the scoreline, which didn’t flatter the home side.

Former Avondale player Misieli Sinoti scored a nice try for the visitors, and caused havoc for the home side all day. Minider Singh added three conversions from 7 attempts, which spared the Rams from further embarrassment.

Camden’s better players included Brady Miller at hooker, along with props Jack Dolan and Jai Gunton, while halves Shane Neady and Midson were threatening. Fullback Jarryd Kelly also caused problems for the Tech-Waratahs attack and the backrow of Eamon Bryan, Charlie Payne and Josh Morgan worked hard.

The Rams’ coaching staff will be looking to atone for the loss when they make the long trip south to Nowra on Saturday for a meeting with Shoalhaven.

The next home game for Camden will be in two weeks’ time when the Rams host fellow Southerners Kiama at Wire Lane. The match will be live streamed on the Camden Rugby Facebook page, with the Macarthur Sports Radio commentary team headed by Mike Shean and Gregor McKenzie providing descriptions of the game, along with plenty of colour to the day.