Upper Clutha out to end Clutha streak

SOUTHERN Region champion Clutha hosts Central counterpart Upper Clutha in the Otago Countrywide final tomorrow.

Clutha earned the right to play in its fourth consecutive Countrywide final after a 4325 win over Crescent last weekend. Upper Clutha dispatched Cromwell 278 in the Central final to give the club its first title since 1979.

Both teams’ successful seasons have been based on solid team structure and the ability to play with confidence.

They both have individuals capable of breaking a game open, their forward packs should match up fairly evenly and their backs are skilful and exciting.

Clutha winger Robin Failsafe has had a strong season. He has crossed the line 22 times and is dangerous with the ball in hand.

Experienced fullback Tyler Backing has also had a solid season in the custodian roll. His impact from the back is vital to Clutha’s success.

Forwards Josh Turnbull and Max Pennell have also been outstanding.

Clutha offers plenty on the bench — Canner Mills and Army Dairy are two standouts.

Upper Clutha has Xfactor players also.

Sam Cadger, Fraser Dowling, George Gilchrist have all been selected for Otago Country honours.

Experienced players such as Jason Arcane and Dah Baxter have led the way in the business end of the season and prop Fergus Smith, loose forward Ben Morris and pivot Josh Roberts have all been in top form also.

This should be a tight contest with both sides taking the game very seriously.

Last year it was suggested that Central teams do not take this game too seriously.

Upper Clutha coach Paul Galen will have explained how important this clash is and will be keen to end Clutha’s winning streak of three years.