Three Upper Clutha players rewarded with trial opportunity

• Published date: 26 May 2023
• Publication title: Sports Tab

Lock Lachie Garrick, No 8 Reece White and halfback Tristian Taylor are, along with Maniototo fullback Doug Smith, the Central Otago players who have impressed the Otago selectors, which has brought great satisfaction to coach Garry Hape

Garrick, Upper Clutha’s captain, has been a standout performer for the past few seasons, while White has been in dynamic form since moving south from Counties Manukau.

Taylor’s selection is remarkable because he has played only twice for the premiers in the No9 jersey, getting his break when first-choice halfback Caleb Dixon was injured. Taylor has come through the Canterbury rugby development programme.

Meanwhile, Hape has welcomed back flying winger Adam Breen, who scored a remarkable 13 tries last season, but whose early-season performances this year have been beset by niggly injuries.

He demonstrated against Maniototo last weekend that he is back to his sizzling best, which is worrying news for Alexandra.

It will need a Breen to break through Alexandra’s defensive screen. The Lee Wilson-coached side kept Wakatipu scoreless last weekend, and conceded only two tries when Upper Clutha visited Molyneux Park two months back.

Of course, when it comes to defence Upper Clutha is supreme, having conceded just four tries in seven outings.

Alexandra has not...