Bulls compete against SCU for a line-out in Saturday's matchThe Casino RSM Bulls have put themselves into the top four this week with an encouraging 26 – 12 victory over Southern Cross University.
In what was a tight encounter up until the final 15 minutes, the Bulls showed an increased determination and intensity on defense that kept them in SCU’s half for much of the game.
Saturday’s contest was marked by a high level of physicality which has become a standard feature in Bulls matches this season.
University surprised the Bulls initially with their incisive efforts in the forwards, however the Casino side were able surpass the Rats, with a more concerted effort at the breakdown after the first 15 minutes allowing the Bulls’ forwards to gain the upper hand. Southern Cross looked dangerous in the backs, moving the ball rapidly to the sidelines, but it was the Casino backs who made the most of their own possession, allowing the team to put together several phases in the opposition 22 leading to tries for Justin Zaiko and Nathan Quirk.
Casino became more expansive with their play in the second half, with Carl Tahatu gathering a clever chip from pivot Nathan Quirk for a try under the posts late in the first half. University struck back from a quick tap in the second half to bring the difference to only a converted try. With 20 to go, Casino’s forwards surged into opposition territory with a strong pick and drive game, which the backs capitalized on, allowing Casino to camp in opposition territory for extended periods. With the game in the balance, a 15 minute delay occurred whilst a University player was transported from the field via an ambulance.
Once play resumed, The Bulls applied mounting pressure on the students forcing a crucial turnover, which lead to a try to scrum-half Luke Serone after a slashing run to the line. Stephen Murchie converted the try to put the game out of reach for university with 7 minutes to go and Casino ran away with the win. Captain Luke Serone played magnificently for 3 points with hard man Tim Gould taking 2 and the industrious Mark McCormack with 1.
In Reserve Grade, Casino stayed in touch with SCU for much of the game, but some lapses in game plan as well as the onset of general fatigue allowed the Rats to take the game 36 – 17. The contest was within reach for the Bulls for much of the game and more discipline with the ball in hand will see the Reserve Grade side improve as the season goes on. Points went to Glen Pollard with 3, Shaun Makings 2, with Mick Sherry and Tim Cameron sharing the one.
By Bulls Man
