Winning in the Rain

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Bannockburn Valkyries 12 – 15 Perthshire Women

Perthshire rally to regain lead in final play.

Perthshire made the short trip down the A9 under heavy skies and the threat of torrential rain – a huge difference to the warm, sunny conditions experienced so far this season.

The game kicked off with uncontested scrums from the start at the request of Bannockburn. With one new start in the Perthshire front five too, both teams were able to focus on other areas of the game.

The first 25 minutes were very close with effective attacks and excellent defence from both teams. Perthshire had been focusing on counter rucks in training and this contributed to the first score with a turnover by Kirsty Binnie leading to a try from Heather McKenzie. The first half ended with some sustained pressure from Bannockburn who were unlucky to miss out on two scoring opportunities due to knock-ons in goal.

Halftime 0-5

The start of the second half was also closely contested, but Bannockburn took the lead with a try and conversion. They scored a second after a tap penalty and some good handling.

Perthshire really started to take control of the play and scored next. Rihanna Lindridge, making her debut, got the pass away. The ball was moved nicely along the line to Cathy Lambie who scored on the wing. It was all pressure from Perthshire in the closing minutes, and with an attacking scrum, Heather M picked up from No. 8 and scored in the corner to take the score to 12-15 in the final play. We love it when a plan comes together….

An excellent game for both sides and thanks to Bannockburn for their hospitality afterwards for Scotland v Tonga. We wish them well for the rest of their season.

Forward of the Match – Claire Rae
Back of the Match – Eilidh Paterson
Player of the Match – Alex Ward

The team have a break this weekend before a Leith visit the North Inch on Sunday 8th October for the last match before the league split is confirmed. Perthshire have already secured their place in the top half of the draw, currently sitting second in the table.

Ten Try Triumph in Tranent

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Ross High 22 – 71 Perthshire

Success on the road as young team show potential.

Perthshire made the trip to East Lothian missing their captain, vice-captain and without a win in their first three league fixtures. However there was belief in the young travelling squad and a real desire to take the game to Ross High and showcase the style of rugby they are endeavouring to play.

Playing down the not insignificant slope in the first half, it nevertheless took Perthshire a while to get their attacking game going. The opening 10 minutes were played out largely between the 22s with both teams defending well and neither side able to get into their stride. Perthshire were the first side to attempt and get on the scoreboard after winning a penalty just inside the Ross High half, however Calum Bruce’s penalty was poorly struck and well wide of the mark.

It didn’t take long for Perthshire to open their account however, after Ross High spilled the ball around the halfway line it was hacked through and a desperate chase back ensued. Although Ross High won the race, the resultant goal line drop out was claimed within the 22 allowing a fantastic attacking opportunity for Perthshire. As the ball was moved wide, Ross High infringed at the ruck and the penalty was kicked into the corner. The forwards executed a beautiful lineout driving maul and Ross Goodison dotted down for the games first points. Calum Bruce was on target with the conversion from out wide.
Ross High 0 – 7 Perthshire

Despite this setback Ross High struck back almost immediately. Although they knocked on from the kick off, they won a penalty at the resultant scrum and decided to take the three points from right in front of the posts.
Ross High 3 – 7 Perthshire

Perthshire now started to apply pressure, coming agonisingly close to scoring with another impressive driving maul before pounding away on the Ross High line. Despite some stoic defence, Adrian Venter eventually managed to contort himself twisting to score Perthshire’s second try which was again converted from the right touchline.
Ross High 3 – 14 Perthshire

By now Perthshire were starting to look dangerous when attacking wide with ball in hand. After one such attack, Ross High attempted a clearing kick from within their 22. Aidan Watson returned this with a kick of his own and followed up his own kick by tackling the Ross High fullback over his own try line, to give Perthshire the attacking scrum. This time however the Ross High defence held firm despite numerous phases and Perthshire decided to kick the penalty when one was awarded close to the posts.
Ross High 3 – 17 Perthshire

Perthshire remained firmly in command as the half progressed, although they passed up an opportunity for more points when deep in the Ross High 22 it proved to be only a temporary reprieve. An excellent Jack McIntosh box kick bounced into touch as a 50:22 providing the next attacking platform, and this time as the ball was spun wide it was the impressive Shaun Barton who handed off a myriad of would-be tacklers to score in the left hand corner. This time Calum Bruce was unable to add the extra 2 points.
Ross High 3 – 22 Perthshire

Rory Bayne was next to threaten the Ross High line, chipping over the defence and showing his speed he appeared to have reached the ball first for the try – the referee was unsighted however and not feeling able to award the try he awarded a 5m scrum to Perthshire. James Mair carried powerfully from the base and was stopped just short, but after another couple of phases the ball was released to the backs and with everyone expecting the ball to be spun wide, the ball was slipped to Laurence Knight on the short line to crash over underneath the posts. The conversion was slotted from in front of the posts.
Ross High 3 – 29 Perthshire

With halftime fast approaching there was still time for one more Perthshire score. More excellent play took Perthshire into the Ross High 22 and with the referee playing an advantage, Calum Bruce took the opportunity to attempt a chip over the onrushing defence. This dropped into his grateful arms and he was able to dive over the try line, converting his own score in the last act of a thrilling first half.
Half time: Ross High 3 – 36 Perthshire

Head coach Graham “Smudge” Smith’s message at half time was to keep up the intensity and not to let Ross High get any momentum playing down the slope in the second half. However he needn’t have worried as it took the boys in Black and White less than a minute to further extend their lead. From the kick-off the ball was shifted left to Ross Goodison who broke through a couple of tacklers and popped the ball to Rory Bayne who took the ball at pace, drew the final defender before passing back to Ross who sprinted the last 20m to score under the posts; which was converted.
Ross High 3 – 43 Perthshire

After absorbing some Ross High pressure, Perthshire’s next score came off the back of a lovely backs move. Having switched into the first receiver position, Rory Bayne passed to Calum Bruce in the midfield. With Laurence Knight interesting the midfield defence the ball was played out the back to Rory on the loop. He found Aidan Watson straightening the line and gliding through, and although he could have given the pass earlier, he managed to get the ball out to Shaun Barton who dived over for his second score of the day. Calum Bruce converted from the left hand touchline.
Ross High 3 – 50 Perthshire

Perthshire were soon back on the scoresheet. James Mair claimed the kick and this time it was Tom Colvin breaking the line. Once again Rory Bayne was on hand to take the pass, beat a defender and although it appeared he could have scored the try himself, he unselfishly passed to Thomas Pounder who scored in the corner on his 1XV debut. Calum again converted from the left hand touchline.
Ross High 3 – 57 Perthshire

Soon back in the Ross High 22, Sam Morris came desperately close to his own debut try, however the cover defence just managed to prevent him. Perthshire were playing with penalty advantage however and going back to the opposite touchline a quick tap and go allowed Adrian Venter to slip round the unguarded blindside for his second try of the day. Calum was again successful with the conversion.
Ross High 3 – 64 Perthshire

Perthshire’s final try arrived with 20 minutes to play. Laurence Knight made the initial break from midfield and although he was stopped just short of the line, the Black and White jerseys were queueing up on the left hand side. Fittingly it was Rory Bayne who got over for a deserved try after a fantastic performance. Calum Bruce again converted.
Ross High 3 – 71 Perthshire

All credit to Ross High who kept playing right until the end and scored three unanswered tries in the final 15 minutes with the final score reading
Full time: Ross High 22 – 71 Perthshire

Despite the late scores it was a fantastic day for Perthshire who played some great rugby and were rewarded with 10 tries in total. There were excellent performances throughout the team in addition to 1XV debuts for Thomas Pounder, Sam Morris and Cameron Craig who can all be very proud of their efforts.

Next up is a return to the North Inch for a clash with Whitecraigs on Saturday 30th September – all supporters will be very welcome as the side seek to build on this positive performance and victory. Kick-off 3pm.

Photos taken by Peter Wilkinson.

Hard Fought Battle in Fife

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Kirkcaldy 36 – 36 Perthshire Women

All square as Kirkcaldy rally to save it in 79th minute.

Perthshire Women headed out for their 4th league game of the season on the back of a convincing win against Dundee Valkyries. This was Perthshire Women’s first away game of the season to Kirkcaldy Rugby Football Club. Heading to Fife with a full squad, a mixture of experienced and new players and also some experienced first-time players for the club, lead to great enthusiasm within the squad. The coaches were looking for consistency of approach from the women with heads up rugby emphasised.

Kirkcaldy unfortunately were reduced in numbers so Perthshire matched and played Game On rules with 14 players.

Under coaches’ instructions, Perthshire started very strongly with a try from the kick off and a full length pitch run by resident number 8 and scorer Heather McKenzie.

Kirkcaldy, with several team members playing out of position, opened up their scoring shortly after with a well wrestled run through heavy defence from Perthshire, up the middle of the park. Despite excellent tackling from Alex Ward and Lydia McGinley, Kirkcaldy went over the line for the second time.

Great carries off the ball from Alex W, Lydia M and Claire Rae, who was just returning from injury, put Perthshire back into Kirkcaldy’s half. An injury to a Kirkcaldy player reduced them to 13 so Lynne Stewart our stalwart prop joined the bench for a breather to even up numbers.

Newcomer’s to Perthshire, Ruth Morgan and Alix Morland, found themselves contributing very strongly in the scrum, with some fabulous breaks and resolute defence. A great break from Ruth and carry from Heather Kirkman in the centre, with good offload produced a passage of excellent play. This strong passage of play in Kirkcaldy’s half continued with a stolen line out, the forwards securing the ball seeing Heather M go over for her 2nd try. Alex lined up for the second time in front of the posts successfully slotting it over.

Lynne returned to the pitch as Kirkcaldy regained their players however, no complacency amongst the Perthshire ladies as a kick to touch by Kirkcaldy is short. A pick and go from Lydia with the successful offload to Alex allowed her to sprint 60 metres up the pitch just being caught at the 5m line. The ball was unfortunately knocked forward as the offload went to Alix who had been in pursuit the whole way.

A determined scrum from Perthshire followed and a pick and go from Heather offloading to Lydia who found her boot with a chip and chase. A passage of play from both teams resulted in Alex intercepting a pass to go over for her 2nd try.

Further pressure at the scrum from Anna Davies, resulted in backs play and a chip up field, with a great gain line break from Becky Hunter. As the clock ticked towards half time Alex, Heather K and Emily Tait continued to romp up the pitch taking Perthshire back into Kirkcaldy’s 22. Kirkcaldy secured a line out following a penalty which was stolen by Perthshire. Perthshire have worked extremely hard on ball retention and presentation and this was evident in the play by Emily as Perthshire go over the line again one minute before half time.

Half time the assistant coaches Arran, Rhys & Ross, in Iona’s absence, reinforced the heads up rugby and continuance of the positive tackling. Changes were made in the scrum with Cheryl Ramsay moving into 2nd row and Claire taking a well earned rest.

Second half started strong for Perthshire with some great runs by Ruth and Alex breaking the gain line. An off-the-training-field pressure move from Emily awarded Perthshire another scrum. Perthshire however just couldn’t seem to capitalise.

The forwards continued to provide solid scrums for Anna Davies to distribute excellent ball to the backs but pressure from Kirkcaldy was forcing errors. Perthshire kept their discipline and continued to work hard with amazing tackles from both Sophie Denwette and Paige Klinkman who joined the from the bench.

Kirkcaldy were out to bring the game into their half of the pitch and ensured Perthshire were feeling the pressure. Forwards playing in their backs was starting to take its toll on the defensive game and they crept into Perthshire’s 22. Great defence from Anna, Heather K and Danni Henderson wasn’t enough to hold Kirkcaldy back from the line.

Kirkcaldy continued their pressure right to the full-time whistle to go over at 79 minutes levelling the score at 36-36.

The Perthshire team left the pitch feeling disappointed. For this team’s first year in the league, playing against a seasoned league team, Perthshire should be extremely proud of the performance they showed, grit and determination right to the final whistle.

Forward of the Match – Ruth Morgan
Back of the Match – Lydia McGinley
Player of the Match – Heather McKenzie

Onwards and upwards to Bannockburn next week!

Knocks Back and Knock Ons

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Perthshire 22 – 27 Dunfermline

Frustration as ‘Shire make life difficult in close match.

Nearly a decade passed since Dunfermline’s last visit to the North Inch on 5th October 2013 when both teams were playing in Caledonia League 1. That year Perthshire’s 39-12 win put them well on the way to promotion up to the National Leagues whereas, always close to the top of the league, Dunfermline secured their promotion last season.

In was the Fife men who kicked off, and in a portent of how the match would unfold, Perthshire knocked on the catch. The defence was resolute with Kieran Ramsay leading the charge with precise and forceful tackles, to create the turnover.

Perthshire kicked away possession to clear but failed to find touch and Dunfermline were up in attack again. The pattern of solid ‘Shire defence winning turnovers, with Angus Walker prominent amongst the jacklers, but then cheaply kicking to allow Dunfermline to attack again repeated for most of the opening 10 minutes. With the first missed tackle on the 22, the visitors got clean through and made the final metres to score a converted try, 0-7.

The pattern repeated again, more determined and aggressive Perthshire defence, but too little ball & time in attack before it was kicked away or knocked on; relieving any pressure on Dunfermline who would bash it up once more.

Keeping the ball in hand the Eagles made a break. Strong runs from Simon McGarry and Ross Goodison put Dunfermline on the back foot. A delayed pass from Calum Bruce attacking right up to the line went to James Mair, who surged forward. Support was lacking after a couple of rucks and the attack ended. However, the potential to be dangerous was shown.

It wasn’t long until the opportunity came, Ben Marshall ran down the left touchline for about 40m bouncing off 2 tacklers before slipping the offload to Captain Simon McGarry to dive over in the corner, Calum Bruce just hit the post with the conversion attempt.

Overly keen, ‘Shire tried to play out of their own half but knocked on. From the scrum, Dunfermline worked the ball right to left to right stretching the home team and found the gap to burst through for their second try, 5-12.

Spurred on the ‘Shire defence continued to be aggressive & assertive. A turnover from Simon McGarry led to his fellow back rowers Garry Coull & James Mair blasting forward but isolated the ball was lost. Returning for the penalty Calum Bruce just pushed it wide of the posts.

The Fifers were really under pressure but they were continually let off by unforced errors or erratic decisions by the Eagles trying to force the play. When it did stick it looked good. From a breakdown at halfway almost the whole team touched the ball in the following quick rucks, phases and offloads before Lewis Murrie ran the support line to receive the final pass and dive over. Converting from the tee Calum Bruce levelled the match, 12-12.

At the restart Perthshire gifted a cheap penalty to Dunfermline who opted for goal and scored the 3 points, to nudge ahead at the break, 12-15.

Perthshire knew this would be a game of fine margins. Kieran Ramsay after an injury scare was back on & could create the go froward. Counter attacks from fullback Aidan Watson and the control of Calum Bruce would allow the score to happen. The team just needed to be patient and trust each other.

The first 2 minutes of the second half put ‘Shire up against it, Dunfermline awarded a scrum on halfway after the kick-off went short, took no time in adding an unconverted try. The ball went to the left touchline then the scrumhalf saw a narrow but clear blindside, he darted round and sprinted the 45m using his footwork to beat the cover defence to the corner, 12-20.

Shellshocked, now Perthshire were under a period of sustained pressure. The defence continued to hold but looked less assured. Dunfermline had more time & space on the ball and started to offload effectively. One try denied by a last pass knock on, and another held up over the line ‘Shire were just, and no more, keeping them at bay. The physicality was taking it’s toll with Ben Marshall and Garry Coull both off with injuries, a blow as they were highly effective before their departures.

Dunfermline also gained the upper hand in the scrum. The penalty count mounted and Dunfermline were unlucky, or maybe Perthshire were just determined enough in defence, not to gain any points. Somewhat against the run of play Perthshire scored next; with the first piece of attacking possession the Eagles were awarded a penalty which Calum Bruce knocked over to reduce the deficit, 15-20.

The pattern continued, both teams failing to take their opportunities: Dunfermline thwarted by the ‘Shire linespeed & aggression in tackling; Perthshire by their own imprecision and failure to link up in attack. The scrum dominance continued for the Fife men who slowly cranked the pressure up on a scrum that was repeatedly reset. With the forwards all tied in, the Dunfermline centre found space in the midfield and got in behind to set up their fourth try under the posts.

At the next scrum tempers flared and the referee spoke to both captains. The hits got harder it was trench warfare, stuck in the middle of the pitch neither team able to engineer a break-through. The contact was taking it’s toll on both teams, Dunfermline lost 2 players whose heads collided attempting a tackle and Simon McGarry had to leave the field prompting a rejig across the team.

In the final 10 minutes Perthshire worked into the 22 and a high tackle by Dunfermline saw a yellow card issued and they would finish with 14 on the field. A couple of quick tap penalties bought ‘Shire to the line; James Mair, nearly capping his Man of the Match performance with a try, went close then the ball was shifted along the hands to Will Campbell who had open grass in front of him to touch down out wide. Calum Bruce added the extras to give ‘Shire a chance of snatching victory in the remaining minutes, 22-27.

It wasn’t to be, ‘Shire were isolated from the restart and turned over. Dunfermline kicked for the corner and set the lineout. Defence was good and halted the attacks but the clock ran out and Dunfermline ended the match kicking to touch.

No doubt another match that “got away” from Perthshire. With 3 matches played all were close and within 10 points. Better composure and linking together at key moments will convert these fine losses into wins. That is the challenge for Graham “Smudge” Smith and coaching team to work on this week as they look ahead to visiting Ross High on Saturday, who have suffered a similar start to their campaign.

Photographs taken by Peter Wilkinson.

Pounder’s Half Dozen

Perthshire 2XV 85 – 12 Bo’ness

Eagles cross the line 15 times with Thomas Pounder claiming 6 of them.

For the second week in a row the mighty 2s found themselves playing “Game On” rules as new league entrants Bo’ness could only muster 11 players. Indeed Perthshire’s numbers hadn’t looked promising right up until Friday, but after some calls were made a match day squad of 20 assembled, giving new 2s coach Craig Manson something of a selection headache! A huge thanks due to Keith Millar & the players from Arbroath who came to bolster the numbers.

Perthshire drew first blood through some lovely evasive running from winger Thomas Pounder who was making his league debut for the 2XV. Bo’ness to their credit never gave up and fought back to score a couple of tries through slack Perthshire defending.

With some of the front row carrying injuries, coach Manson shuffled the lineup and put Captain Angus “Stoorie” Macpherson in at tight head prop! The veteran centre able to play there as the scrums went uncontested. This allowed some of the more youthful and mobile backs onto the pitch to exploit the space and keep the scoreboard ticking over.

After 40 minutes with the score at 46-12, injuries further reduced Bo’ness but player matching is a key part of Game On so spaces opened and the game stayed alive & competitive for the final 20 minutes.

With thoughts turning to next week’s match away at Strathmore, Coach Manson was keen to try and execute some more of the game play worked on in training, and the team were at times able to show their progress here. However, with Bo’ness tiring spaces were opening up all over the pitch and the tries kept coming from the pace of Mikey Evans and Thomas Pounder. The try scoring was completed in the last play by Chris Wallace, playing his first game in 10 months, who powered his way over the line from short range.

Counting back the scores: Thomas Pounder, on his debut, ran in 6 and made 2 conversions; David Webster crossed the line 4 times and added 2 conversions; Mikey Evans scored 2 with 2 conversions; and there was a try apiece from Angus Macpherson, Rab Pittendreigh & Chris Wallace. Final score 85-12.

Overall a much needed confidence boost for the 2XV but still plenty to work on in terms of structure and defence before next week’s game against Strathmore 2XV at Inchmacoble Park, Forfar. It shows that when the team has the players, the results will follow. Still time for players new and old to join us and help in the league campaign, contact senior@perthshire-rfc.co.uk for more information.

Photos taken from Dave Morgan Pix.

Super ‘Shire in the Sunshine

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Perthshire Women 46 – 5 Dundee Valkyries 2XV

New players shine in 8 try triumph.

It was another warm afternoon on the North Inch and ‘Shire started brightly, a recurring theme so far this season. Some strong carries from Heather McKenzie and a speedy break from Chloe Bennett resulted in a lovely try from Kesia Chipakupaku in her first start.

Ellie Jo Simpson started her first senior match as she meant to go on, an excellent tackle and an effective support line in support of Alex Ward resulting in her first senior try. Perthshire had a period of pressure resulting in an attacking scrum. Heather M picked up at 8, offloaded to Anna Davies (who had a fantastic game) and she then passed to Alex who went over for the third try.

The fourth came from another great tackle by Ellie, turnover from Alex and some lovely support from Chloe. Alex converted to take the half time score to 22-0.

The second half play was equally positive. Perthshire’s fifth try came from some good use of the blind side by Chloe, Heather Kirkman, Ellie and Lydia McGinley who was tackled just short. Heather M was on hand to pick up and finish the score. Ellie then sprinted 70 metres to claim Perthshire’s sixth try, which was converted by Alex.

Lydia joined the scorers after receiving a goal line drop out and powering through the defence, leaving tacklers in her wake. Dundee responded through their left winger who scored a nice try following a tap penalty from close range.

The final try, to the delight of the home crowd, was again a team affair finished by Lydia and converted by Alex. Those spectators were then treated to a determined try saving tackle from Chloe after a line break from a Dundee, in one of the last plays of the game.

All in all, another fantastic team performance and some encouraging play from our very new players Kesia, Sophie, Colleen and Cheryl. There are some specifics to work on in training before next week’s trip to Kirkcaldy.

We wish Dundee all the best for the rest of their season.

Photographs taken by Football East Region.

Opportunities Missed and Penalties Paid

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Perthshire 12 – 24 Stewartry

Eagles fail to capitalise from promising positions.

It was an unusually hot September afternoon when National League 4 rugby came to the North Inch. A big crowd arrived to watch a close and determined match. Such was the weather the referee agreed to schedule water-breaks to allow players to rehydrate.

Perthshire kicked off and were clearly up for it, Simon McGarry winning a penalty at the first ruck as Stewartry were guilty of holding on. Soon after with more pressure, and following powerful runs by Kieran Ramsay and Calum Chalmers, Aidan Watson darted over after a quick recycle to open the scoring within 3 minutes of the start and converted his try.

Stewartry with their first real possession struck back and won a penalty which was duly kicked over to narrow the gap, 7-3. The Eagles then ran it right back at the Castle Douglas team with bursts from John Kelly and Dan Rae making inroads, forcing the defence to concede a penalty. The chance was lost when the ensuing lineout throw was judged “not straight.”

The visitors worked their way back up the pitch and seemed to be through on a couple of occasions. Only the excellent cover tackles of Tom Colvin then Ben Marshall stopped them and allowed ‘Shire to regroup. The defence held but in doing so came offside and Stewartry opted to take the penalty kick at goal, to narrow the gap to 1 point.

Perthshire spent most of the next 10 minutes defending & tackling relentlessly. Stewartry progressed slowly but could not get past. A turnover won and Perthshire built phases from their own half but the ball was kicked away and Stewartry ran it back winning another penalty. This went wide of the posts.

The next Perthshire attack came following a neat inside offload from Aidan Watson, centre Kieran Ramsay came storming onto the ball brushing aside defenders and into space, he was hauled down short of the 22. Perthshire flooded through but Stewartry fronted up in defence and ‘Shire knocked on, ending the attack.

The visitors now ran it straight back from the scrum with strong direct runs penetrating deep into 22. More ferocious ‘Shire defence held them up but eventually the men in Black & White were outnumbered on right wing and Stewartry dotted down for a converted try.

It was end-to-end, as Perthshire were now back into Stewartry territory. From a scrum they won a penalty but Aidan Watson pushed his effort wide. The drop out was kicked deep into Perthshire’s half who built a solid platform then cleared. Despite the obvious bounce in the field of play, the linesman was convinced to declare the clearance straight out, bringing the lineout level to where the kick was made.

Perthshire maybe switched off, frustrated by this injustice, but Stewartry took their chance and manoeuvred the ball to the wing where soft ‘Shire shoulders allowed the attack round the edge and into the wide channel for an unconverted try.

Almost immediately ‘Shire added to their woes trying too hard and gifting a penalty in front of the posts 40m out. Good with his boot all day, the Stewartry kicker slotted it as half-time struck, 7-21.

Changes made at the break saw Calum MacDonald come on for John Kelly and a positional switch for Lewis Murrie with Jack McIntosh from scrum half to wing & vice versa. Instantly though ‘Shire were back to defending. It was brutal, Stewartry hammering away short and wide but the Black & White line held firm. Then the turnover came and the siege was lifted.

Now Perthshire were on the front foot. Stewartry tried to clear but receiving the kick Aidan Watson revved up the pace and found the gap. Stopped, ‘Shire recycled and kicked the ball through. In the foot race Stewartry got there first but the swarm of Perthshire players won penalty. After lining up the runners, Perthshire tapped the penalty and within 2 phases, James Mair had bashed his way through to score in the corner. The conversion missed to make it 12-21.

The game slowed down as both teams got stuck in the midfield no man’s land; unable to penetrate through the defences. Perthshire squandered chances forcing plays with knock-ons or runners getting isolated. Meanwhile over-eager defence conceded ruck penalties pushing them back further.

Later substitutions saw James Mair & Ben Marshall make way for Adrian Venter & Shaun Barton. Both added renewed energy to Perthshire but Stewartry seemed content to hold on to the ball and frustrate any Perthshire momentum. A kickable penalty came the visitor’s way which was taken to extend the lead, 12-24.

The intensity remained but the match petered out neither side able to get the upper hand. When the referee blew for full time ‘Shire knew they let this one get away. Decision making and skills at crucial moments killed momentum. The defence was mostly solid and cover tackles showed a real determination. With 2 tries apiece it was the 4 penalties Stewartry scored that made the difference.

Nothing that cannot be fixed, composure and further improvements in discipline will right this. Perthshire will look to put these right when Dunfermline visit this weekend. A few years have passed since the last time this derby was played between the 1XV of each club.

The 2XV meanwhile opened their Caledonia Midlands League 3 campaign against Grangemouth 2XV. Due to holidays and other commitments the 2s were short of players but not short of energy nor enthusiasm. A spirited display under Game On rules saw them claim a try bonus point thanks to scores from Bruce Campbell, Rab Pittendreigh x2 and Mat Rae in their 24-50 defeat.

Saturday will be a big weekend of rugby at the North Inch with 3 home matches at all once! Kicking off at 2pm the Colt’s face Dunfermline before the respective 1XVs face each other at 3pm. The 2s are in action too, hosting Bo’ness also at 3pm. With the Bowling Club closed, post-match will be held at the Masonic Lodge, 5 Atholl Crescent. All welcome to come down to support the ‘Shire!

False Start for Perthshire

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Murrayfield Wanderers 33 – 28 Perthshire

Frustrating loss on the road as 4 yellow cards take their toll.

The summer’s preseason ended with the first National League 4 match of the season away to Murrayfield Wanderers. Often these encounters are close affairs separated by a few points and this match, played in the shadow of the national stadium, again proved to be a tight game.

Perthshire kicked off and their aggressive defence troubled Murrayfield who struggled to make much ground. However, some over enthusiastic hits and rucking earned Wanderers a penalty in front of the posts which they duly scored to take a 3-0 lead.

With their first real piece of possession to work with Perthshire hit back. A penalty was kicked to touch for a 5m lineout. Secured, the maul formed and pushed forward but was halted short. A couple of quick & direct phases by the forwards and newly appointed vice-captain Simon McGarry burrowed over the line, Calum Bruce adding the 2 points.

The ball and attacks veered back & forth, both teams making good headway with their possession. A last ditch tackle then turnover from Lewis Murrie ended a threatening Murrayfield surge in to the 22. A break from Kieran Ramsay, who burst back this match after a long lay off, took ‘Shire deep into Murrayfield territory but a chip kick through into space was not regathered. However, in their desperate defence Murrayfield conceded a number of penalties and ultimately the referee lost patience sending their flanker to the sin bin.

It did not take long for Perthshire to make the extra man count. After some patient plays sucking in the home team, Shaun Barton made a barnstorming carry through the middle. In behind, Perthshire exploited the space to the left then back to the far right touchline where Rory Bayne crossed to score out wide. Despite the difficult angle Calum Bruce was on the money converting to build the lead, 3-14.

Both teams were pushing the tempo and playing at 100mph. The defensive line-speed coupled with this pace of play was forcing knock-ons and plays were disjointed with a few temper tantrums from either side.

Following a knock-on and still with the 1 man advantage, the Eagles had a scrum 10m into the Wanderers half. A big shove had the scrum moved forward, then the ball came out to Calum Bruce who’s kick pass to the wing was perfectly weighted to John Kelly. With the ball in hand he stepped in, beating one defender, and surged forward brushing off more would-be tacklers all the way to the line. The conversion from the boot of Calum Bruce hit the post but bounced over, 3-21.

Now restored to 15 players, Murrayfield had some possession but were not making much headway. However, a series of cheap penalties got Wanderers on to the front foot and they scored an unconverted try in the corner after a quick tap.

Responding positively Perthshire built a good bit of momentum and got into the Murrayfield half. Some rash decision making saw ‘Shire kick away possession trying to get over the top or in behind but never pulling it off. These relieved the pressure and allowed Murrayfield space to attack a broken field. One such kick was returned and the bounce was cruel flummoxing Calum Bruce who in his efforts to secure the ball took out a Murrayfield player, which the referee deemed cynical and brandished a yellow card.

Shocked and compounding penalties Perthshire were disorganised allowing Murrayfield the opportunity, which they seized, to score on the half time whistle. Adding further to the misery Lewis Murrie was also sent to the sin bin for infringements leading up to the try.

Despite going into the second half 15-21 up Perthshire seemed lost. Down 2 men they knew it would be an almighty effort to hold the lead until restored. It didn’t start well, further penalties earlier in the second half and soon Simon McGarry was guilty of going high and show a yellow card as well.

With only 12 players Perthshire defended valiantly, twice holding up potential scores. However, a goal line drop out was run back at pace and the space exploited to maximum effect as Murrayfield scored in the corner to make it a 1 point match, 20-21.

Perthshire steadied as Calum Bruce returned to the pitch then a few minutes later Jack McIntosh came on for Lewis Murrie as his 10 minute suspension ended. A change in the front row saw Blair Twaddell and Kieran Maclean enter the match. This was short lived as Blair Twaddell was soon walking off courtesy of a yellow card for a “seat-belt” tackle.

Ill-discipline really hurt ‘Shire, whereas in the first half Murrayfield were mostly punished by the referee’s whistle, it was all Perthshire now. The hosts adapted to the interpretation of the new high-tackle laws whereas the visitors did not and could not get possession; almost any good turnover was undone by an earlier penalty advantage still being played.

The defence held, with Shaun Barton and Captain Calum Chalmers leading the efforts, and eventually the ball came to ‘Shire. They attacked positively and it looked on, so sent a kick through to chase. This was collected by Murrayfield and, with Perthshire not set up to defend & players short, the hosts ran it straight back to the corner for an unconverted try to take the lead for the first time. This was soon extended by a penalty for a high tackle, 28-21.

Now, eventually, the men in Black & White were restored to 15 and they struck back. A dominant scrum held in the forwards as the backs attacked, then flooded through the breach. A series of offloads kept the ball alive and John Kelly finished off the move to score in the corner. A stunning conversion by Calum Bruce levelled the score 28-28.

No sooner and it was undone. Perthshire were slow to the tackle from the restart and Murrayfield won a penalty and kicked at goal. It went wide but collecting the ensuing 22 drop Wanderers’ winger ran round the defenders and showed some pace to dot down in the corner to gain a 5 point lead.

Desperate Perthshire pushed on and attacked, Aidan Watson injecting pace while Angus Walker carried hard, but could not break through as they forced the play and made mistakes. The match ended when a penalty failed to find touch.

This was not the outcome Perthshire wanted, to throw away a 19 point lead with 4 yellow cards because they could not adapt to the tackle height laws. Likewise a lack of composure at key attack & defence moments cost them dearly. The Adam Pattinson Memorial Cup goes to Murrayfield Wanderers until it is next contested at the return fixture on 11th November on the North Inch.

Next week it is a double-header at home as the 1XV host newly promoted Stewartry and the 2XV start their league campaign against Grangemouth 2XV. All are welcome to support the teams and cheer them on at the North Inch then join us in the Perth Bowling Club afterwards. Kick-offs are at 3pm.

Photos taken by Ewan MacKessack-Leitch and Andrew Sanderson.