In a closely fought State League Basketball semi-final the Dubbo Rams suffered a 87-74 loss to old foes Wagga Heat on Saturday, which spells the end to their season.

Playing with a near full-strength line-up the Rams did not have enough petrol in the tank to finish in front despite leading after the first quarter 18-17.

Brian Amos, back from injury, added a spark of magic to the game plan with captain Nathan Peckham driving the line every chance he got.

Coach Peter Gaiter said he was impressed with the efforts shown by his players.

“Nathan Peckham played an awesome game shooting 28, passing off and leading his younger players by example,” Gaiter said.

“Defensively we still need to improve and I feel the players need to learn to outscore their opponents in the one-on-one stats,” he said.

Despite outplaying his much bigger, more favoured opponent Rams star forward Mark Dawes did not get his normal opportunity to score.

Mitchell Cavanagh showed a lot of heart, stepping up for his side when four players were fouled out early.

New to the Rams this year, Cavanagh is expected to add vitality to their line-up next year.

“Mitch got the three best and fairest points because of his heart and the control he brought to an otherwise lacklustre offense,” Gaiter said.

Liam Morrow, the star of last week’s close match, received two points for his efforts and was assisted by “dazzling” Dean Peachey who, like his famous brother, shows no intention of letting age stop his temper, enthusiasm and skill.

“If players win matches and coaches lose them, then I need to mix the offense up more and teach the boys how to play to the ref’s call,” Gaiter said.

“Too many times this year we have lost close games to free throws and foul trouble,” he said.

Despite the loss Gaiter said there was some very exciting moments in the match, which the large crowd appreciated.

Gaiter said he would like to thank their sponsors including the Monkey Bar, Wheels on Bourke and Cav Building.

Meanwhile, the Rams women’s team travels to Coffs Harbour this weekend for their semi-final and Gaiter said he was quietly confident they could come away with a win.