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Superb Second Half Performance Sees Of Bishopton Challenge

Published on 03 October 2006 at 14:14:00

 

The Rams travelled to Bishopton last weekend determined to improve their league standing. A late injury call off by Craig Currie threatened to disrupt the preparations but Clint Smith declared himself fit and returned to bolster the front row. With Liam Ogilvy in the starting line up for the first time the Rams had a quality bench of Conor Dupre; Matt Kerr and Stuart Renwick.

From the outset the big Bishopton pack tried to control and muscle their way through the game. Camped in the Moffat 22 for almost the entire first half they were thwarted by a fully stretched Rams benefiting from the defensive training worked on earlier in the week. Excellent, resolute, defence and good clearance kicking by Gemmell and Jack kept them at bay and the Rams were considering themselves a trifle fortunate to turn around at only 7-0 down.

In the second half the Rams took the initiative from the restart and the forwards started to exert authority and give the backs some quality possession. Despite the increase in possession and commitment, which brought some superb passing interchanges, Bishopton's defence was still proving very difficult to break down.

The breakthrough came when a forward drive saw Clint Smith claiming the touch down. Unfortunately Kevin Jack missed the kick to make the score 7-5 against. This score lifted the Rams and a midfield break saw Clint Smith break clear and score near the posts. Jack added the conversion 7-12 and the Rams took the lead for the first time and continued to press for further scores.

Some excellent link work and rapid interchange between Wennington, Ogilvy and Scott saw the big winger denied a score by the referee stranded at the half way line who adjudged Mr Scott hadn't grounded properly.

Not to be outdone Bishopton laid siege to the Rams 22. Good defence held them at bay and positive, aggressive defence gave Mikey Lockhart the opportunity to steal the ball and make ground into the opposition half. Excellent support play saw Graham Gemmell cross the whitewash. Again Jack added the conversion 7-19 and the Rams smelt a bonus point.

The extra bonus point came after Gordon Dinwoodie broke clear, fed Mikey Lockhart and the jubilant stand off scored under the posts. Jack converted yet again to make the final score 7-26.

This was a good performance by a Rams team clearly committed to each other and dedicated to improving their league position. The benefit of regular training and good fitness levels are apparent and they are working with a renewed cohesion. The addition of new faces has given an impetus and the squad is increasing not only in size but more importantly in quality.

Rams skipper Jamie McDowall said after the game "they were a stuffy side to break down but credit to the team who maintained their discipline and shape" he continued "This team is growing in confidence at just the right time and putting the poor start behind them. As a Club things are looking very bright for us"