MANNING Ratz warmed up for Saturday's big clash against Wauchope Thunder with a solid 52-16 win over a determined Old Bar Clams in the Lower North Coast Rugby Union game at Taree Rugby Park.
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Ratz coach Jake Maurirere took the opportunity to rest some players carrying niggling injuries and also give his bench players some valuable game time.
He admitted the Ratz strayed from the game plan at times, but said the result was never in doubt.
Hooker Brodan Hamilton excelled for the Ratz.
"He played just about the full game and he had some really strong runs,'' Maurirere said.
Another former Old Bar Rugby League player, Nathan Napier joined the rugby ranks and he was also strong, running a bit wider of the ruck and setting up his outside players.
Centre Michael Bailey scored a smart try for the Clams and was dangerous in attack.
However it isn't all good news for the Ratz with utility player Tom Burley expected to be out until the semi-finals with a knee injury.
Maurirere said Saturday's game against Thunder would probably decide the minor premiership. The Ratz lead the pointscore on points differential with both sides unbeaten.
Manning and Wauchope played a 19-19 draw in the first round.
