Rivals meet in stop-start game

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 9, Issue 394, 9 July 1991, Page 16

Rivals meet in stop-start game

BY

LJNEOUT

The referee played a major part in the game at Raetihi on Saturday as Ohakune went to a 19-3 win. The stop - start game had the spectators so baffled at times that in the second half the usually vocal supporters were quiet. Although Ohakune never looked like losing, all credit must go to the Raetihi coach and his helpers for the better performance in contrast to the last meeting of the two teams during the domestic round. The Raetihi team played their old style game of spoiling tactics which did not help Ohakune's faster game. The general feeling at the after- function was that Raetihi stepped up a cog and the game was for most part in the Ohakune half with the Raetihi backs showing signs of brilliance now and again. Tony Bird, the youngster for Raetihi showed that he is a promising performer and it could be safely said that he overshadowed the usually dominating Brian Bailey for Ohakune. Paul Trow had one or two bursts up the centre of the field and appeared to be the only

play maker in the team in contrast to the Ohakune side that has Whetu Mareikura, Lochan Harding, Richard Mathews and Kerry Brown when he has a good day. Arron McCann had a good game for Raetihi at first-five and was a very

worthy opponent for the cairn and collected Anthony Callaghan, whose good hands are his greatest asset. The Wills brothers for Ohakune continued their good form in the front row. The Raetihi front row is a big strong one especially as Toni

Rawiri has lost all that weight. Stu Ngatai was awarded Raetihi's player of the day for his work in the tight but it was the appearance of former Wanganui captain, Michael Gordon that created a lot of interest. The veteran hooker is still playing like a

young buck and his lineout throwing was good, especially to Ngatai. Another old fellow played for Raetihi on Saturday- David Brown, who played at lock for Raetihi, was one of the most underated props in

the area a few years ago, and should be an asset to the for ward power that Raetihi is aiming for. The Wills brothers were Ohakune's players of the day. Raetihi did not have any outstanding individual players but the whole team deserve

praise. Ohakune Karioi led 13-3 at interval. Anthony Callaghan, Richard Mathews and Richard Lindsey scored tries with Lachlan Harding kicking two conversions. Mark Donghi kicked a penalty for Raetihi.