Otago Country proved it was not out of its depth against a
Heartland Championship union despite being beaten 26-23 by
2006 champion Wairarapa-Bush in Masterton on Saturday.
Country coach David Latta, speaking from Wellington,
described as "anxious" and "nervy" his side's performance in
its first match of a three-game tour.
He said his team could have won the game if it had not made
simple handling errors and other silly mistakes.
Country opened its scoring through a try to Upper Clutha
fullback Ben Purvis, playing on the wing, when he finished
off a move after several phases.
Former Highlanders and Otago first five-eighth Charlie Hore,
playing at second five-eighth, grabbed the team's only other
try midway through the second half.
Lawrence and former Taranaki first five-eighth Sam Young had
a solid day with the boot, converting both tries and kicking
three penalty goals.
For much of the game, Otago Country's forward pack competed
well in the set phases, pushing the Wairarapa-Bush pack
around the park and stealing an impressive amount of ball in
the line-out.
Wairarapa-Bush's loose forwards controlled a lot of ball in
the rucks and mauls, and Latta said they played a big part in
the side's win.
Halfback James Kenny had an impressive game for Country,
providing excellent delivery for halves partner Young,
controlling the forward pack well and taking appropriate
options.
Purvis was the other Country player to stand out, running
well and providing the support needed for schoolboy fullback
Matt Faddes.
Otago Country's next game is against Horowhenua-Kapiti in
Levin at 7pm tomorrow.
Wairarapa-Bush 26, Otago Country 23 (Ben Purvis, Charlie Hore
tries; Sam Young 2 conversions, 3 penalty goals).
Half-time: Wairarapa-Bush 13-8.
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