Lincoln University men’s division one rugby side, the Rams, have come out on top after round robin play in the Metro rugby competition, their 50-12 victory over Burnside on Saturday giving them the Hawkins Trophy for the second consecutive year.
Ram’s skipper Nic Souchon said his side were not a team of superstars.
“It’s all about the mindset. No matter who is on the paddock, everyone gives it their best, no matter what position they’re asked to play in. We’re a tight-knit group.
“The way the boys are playing makes my job a lot easier. There’s a lot of history between us and Burnside so it was good to do the business.”
First-five Oscar Koller scored the first try, on the blindside of a five metre scrum, no defender getting near him as he scooted through.
The scoring continued with Fletcher Morgan going over for a vital bonus-point fourth try early in the second half, finishing slick backline play off a scrum 22m out.
The Rams on the field were well aware of the significance of the touchdown. As it turned out, Christchurch had its own bonus-point win over Marist Albion and remained just a point behind the Rams.
Sam Gilbert gave another near faultless goal kicking display in difficult conditions, missing only the conversion of his own try right at the end.
Lincoln University have won the round-robin championship in Christchurch premier rugby six times: in 1981 (as Lincoln College), 2013, 2014, 2015, 2018 and 2019.