Premiership setback for Kiama rugby

ILLAWARRA RUGBY

PAUL GLOVER

KIAMA'S premiership ambitions suffered a setback last weekend, losing 18-0 to competition leaders Shamrocks at Ocean Park.

Things started well for Kiama, who unfortunately couldn't convert field position into points.

Shamrocks opened their account with a penalty goal.

Kiama appeared likely to score until a stray pass was picked up by Shamrocks winger Chris Bradshaw, who streaked away for an 8-0 halftime lead.

The second half saw Shamrocks put plenty of pressure on the Kiama line, but great tackling from centre Chris Jack and back-rower Tim Howard kept the Shamrocks out.

Kiama eventually cracked though, Shamrocks grabbing a 15-0 lead.

A late field goal made the final score 18-0, ensuring Shamrocks finished the regular season undefeated.

Kiama coaches David Hoole and Pete Asquith said although the loss was disappointing they could take away many positives heading into next weekend's semi final rematch.

Jack and Howard were Kiama's best, while halves Stuie Richardson and Michael Quinn impressed.

Second grade nearly sprung an upset, going down 18-15.

Shamrocks scored their first try before Kiama had even touched the ball.

Kiama regrouped, centre Harley Nortje latching onto a pass from Benny King-Gee to score under the posts.

Soon after, King-Gee threw another perfect pass for fullback Simon Tweed to score out wide and surge ahead 12-7.

A penalty goal to each side put Kiama ahead 15-10 at halftime.

Shamrocks dominated possession during the second half and tied the scores up with a try, before a late penalty goal gifted them three points and the win.

Matt Archer was Kiama's best, while Nortje and rookie second-rower Nick Graham also played strongly.

The Kiama team will now meet Avondale this Sunday in an elimination semi final.

In third grade, Shamrocks scored many early tries before Kiama had any possession.

However, strong defence from front rower Tim Zelvis and fullback Peter Russell kept them in it.

Shamrocks' defence held Kiama out though, before the home side ran away with it 35-5.

Coaches Peter Hart and Ian Spackman were pleased with their side's effort.

Despite the loss Kiama finished in the top eight and will play in the semi-finals, with the club hosting the first semi final matches for all three grades at Kiama Showground this Saturday.