Rangiora suffer crucial loss to Lincoln

The Rangiora HS 1st XV will have a bye week to lament a crucial loss to Lincoln Combined in the UC Rugby Championship.

The 17-21 loss has ended Rangiora’s run at an unprecedented top four finish after an error ridden performance in Lincoln.

‘‘We started the match with a wealth of possession, position, momentum, and confidence but quite simply we failed to capitalise on it,’’ coach Glen Dunseath said.

After 20 minutes a try to Joel Epps, converted by Caleb Beck, had Rangiora ahead but it could have been more if not for a series of errors. Lincoln then punished Rangiora’s poor execution with two quick converted tries to take the lead at halftime. Rangiora made a strong start to the second half, hitting back with a try to Mark Rankin to be behind 12-14.

A penalty out in front of the posts 15m out from the Lincoln line with 10 minutes to go proved a decisive point in the match.

Rangiora turned down the shot at goal, and a possible 15-14 lead, to take a scrum and go for the try.

The visitors attacked the line but Lincoln snatched a 100m intercept try for a 21-12 lead with eight minutes to play.

Rangiora came back with a try to Josh Duckworth with four minutes left on the clock but they couldn’t conjure up a match winner.

They now head into the bye and then clash with Christ’s College, who sits second on the ladder.