Wakatipu wins close game
WAKATIPU is the 2017 Central Otago Premier Rugby Competition winner.
It overcome a very competitive Arrowtown side 1310, after being tied 00 at halftime.
In a game played in fine and sunny conditions on a good surface at the Queenstown Recreation ground, Arrowtown scored two tries to one, but the home side capitalised on most of its chances to take this season’s banner.
Arrowtown missed a relatively handy penalty attempt right on time and the home side celebrated in style when the final whistle went.
Wakatipu last won the trophy in 2012.
Wakatipu was first to score, from a penalty, when Chris Young kicked the goal 30m out after 45 minutes.
Arrowtown then scored backtoback tries to second fiveeighth Isireli Nayaloga and hooker Ben Carr to lead 103 and looked odds on to defeat the host side.
The Nayaloga try was scored after some good work from the Arrowtown forwards, then the ball was swung along the back line and the centre crossed 15m to the left of the posts.
A few minutes later, hooker Ben Carr crossed over 5m in from touch after excellent interplay between the forwards from a lineout 20m out from the line.
The home side showed plenty of composure to come back and score an excellent try to second fiveeighth Tom Kelly 7m in from touch, which was converted by Young to tie the score with 10 minutes left to play.
Young then kicked a vital penalty goal to round out the scoring with six minutes left.
The normally reliable Arrow town goal kicker Connor Bissett had an off day with his boot and missed four from four kicks at goal, which proved the difference between the sides.
The home side was well led by its captain, Brad Cross, who had another excellent game. Logan Begs at first fiveeighth and the experienced Chris Young at fullback were the pick, with Cross, of the winning side.
Arrowtown was well served by its lineout and Malcolm Sutherland and Aidan Winter were also strong in broken play.