UMS score a ton in foul weather

UMS Reid and Harrison Yardmaster Pumps Senior A 100 Frankton 0

UMS hosted Frankton at Bedford Park, in the final round of the first division championship, in which can only be described as atrocious weather and playing conditions.

But you would be forgiven for thinking UMS were playing on a dry track as the 17-try romp, the ball skills and pace on display were brilliant to watch for those who braved the conditions.

With UMS already securing a playoff berth the previous week, the win against Frankton was still important as new combinations were tried, some because of player unavailability, but more so to have some momentum into the playoffs.

One of the changes saw Sean Tuhakaraina making his debut at lock. He looked like a seasoned campaigner with his lineout takes and his pace and speed in and around the rucks.

Straight from the kick off UMS gained possession and Tavita Latau scored from some great individual play.

Frankton to their credit had several players backing up from the B fixture and although they tried it was going to be a long day in the mud.

Coach George Simpkin wanted UMS to keep their shape and setpiece composure throughout the game and this in most parts was

leading successful. UMS regularly scored tries in the first half, some brilliant tries with multiple phases and slick passing throughout the backline that took the halftime score to 50-0.

The second half was much the same.

Even though UMS were playing into a howling gale they continued with well-worked plays, especially after defending for some periods of the half.

When they turned over possession the speed of the passing allowed space on the outside and nine further tries were scored.

With 10 minutes remaining both teams agreed to shake hands and ‘‘ full credit’’ must go to Frankton for making a game of it and the sportsmanship at the end of the game was very heartwarming.

UMS now go into the promotion relegation playoffs with next week’s game home to surprise premier division cellar dwellers Te Awamutu Sports.

UMS are then away to Hinuera the following week, which also doubles as the first division championship final, then away the following week to the other premier division team Te Rapa.

These playoff matches important to UMS.

Promotion to the premier division is something they are aiming for and it is something they can achieve if they play as well as they have over past weeks.

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Every player contributed to the game and they all played their part.

Directional Drilling- Pearson Engineering Senior B, despite losing to Frankton B, secured second place and will host Frankton B again at home next week.

Special thanks to all the supporters who braved the conditions, especially to scoreboard attendant Terry James.

Points Scorers Tries:

Tevita Latau, Sam Brill (2), Sean Tuhakaraina (2), Raymond Tuhakaraina ( 2), Josh Gibbs ( 2), Ameniase ( 2), Alex Bradley, Jamie McIntyre ( 3), Ryan Tuhakaraina, Andrew Martin; Ryan Tuhakaraina (6), Sam Brill (3), Josh Gibbs (1).

Cons: