Greenock Freeze out Perthshire

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A try from Scott Alcorn and a James Mair hattrick earn bonus point.

Greenock 49 – 24 Perthshire

The North Inch floodlights are back in working order, so for the first time this month the squad could train on a real grass pitch. A good atmosphere was felt at training and, though a tough opposition, Perthshire ran league toppers Greenock close in the season opener so there was confidence that ‘Shire could get something from the game.

Preparations didn’t start well. Most games in Scotland were called off due to the frost but Greenock insisted their pitch would be playable so the team set off. The bus missed the turn-off to collect Ross Dougan at Gleneagles so he had to run down the slip road to catch up. He had some choice words to share on boarding. Then once in Greenock the pitch was hard.

Discussions and reading of the rules between the team captains and match officials over-shadowed the truncated warm-up. The referee felt the pitch was “marginal, but manageable” to play and Greenock were determined to have the game. It was a call for Perthshire to make, Club Captain Ewan MacKessack-Leitch was all for postponing citing safety of his players. However, after intense discussion between the players and sage words from injured Captain Ryan Miller (yes, he played a full 80 minutes with a broken finger last week but is now in a cast and out for 6 weeks), Mat Rae made the call and the game would go ahead. ‘Shire were annoyed at being put in that positions but determined to put 100% in.

It started brightly, Perthshire received the kick-off and took it to Greenock. After a few carries, Adam Dearden sent up a high ball, Greenock failed to take it and it was collected by Scott Alcorn. He spun round before flicking the ball on to James Mair to score. Jonny Armitt made the conversion and it was 0-7 within a couple of minutes.

From the restart Perthshire again put good pressure on the kick and held Greenock in their half. However, after a couple of phases holes would appear in the ‘Shire defence which Greenock ruthlessly exploited. Soon they were in the Perthshire 22 and it didn’t take long before they crashed over for a try.

The remainder of the first half followed a similar pattern as Greenock scored another 5 tries before the break. Good pressure by Perthshire was undone by weak tackling or slow line-speed allowing Greenock easy metres. On the back-foot Perthshire would valiantly try to hold up the home team but it was too easy for the hosts.

When in attack, Perthshire weren’t patient enough or were too predictable. Daring & forceful runs from the Rae brothers in the centre or the back 3 of Jonny Armitt, Scott Alcorn & Ross Goodison came to nothing as support was too slow. Greenock would soak up a few tackles then win a turnover or force a mistake. On the retreat Perthshire too often gave the possession and territory away cheaply. On the plus side the scrums & lineouts were a major strength with Perthshire dominant in both.

Captain Mat Rae had words with his team and changed the target. Down 34-7 at half time ‘Shire aimed for another 3 tries to wrestle at least a point from the match.

Perthshire came out the blocks in the second half a changed team. Aggressive, assertive and decisive, Greenock were suddenly under the cosh. The scrum and lineout dominance were paying dividends as the game was played for long periods in the Greenock 22. Eventually the penalty count was too high and Greenock were reduced to 14 men for 10 minutes.

From the ensuing scrum, fly half Adam Dearden picked Mat Rae who took the ball at pace bursting down the middle of the pitch. Hauled down just short, James Mair quickly picked up the ball and spotted a gap round the ruck and dotted over for his second try. Jonny Armitt added the extras.

Perthshire, with urgency than they’ve not shown most of the season, claimed the restart and with a clever kick put Greenock in all sorts of bother. Ali Nisbet got low and won a ruck penalty allowing Perthshire a lineout just outside the Greenock 22.

As he did all day, Ross Dougan found his man and the ball went out to the backs where Jonny Armitt picked a sweet line to get deep within the 22. A couple of short phases followed then Adam Dearden spotted a large gap, called for the ball to switch direction and lined up James Mair for a 1 on 1 with the fullback. Two tries already to his name James Mair made no mistake and took his hat-trick.

The game swung back in Greenock’s favour as they were restored to 15 men. The mistakes from the first half crept back into Perthshire and they conceded two softish tries. Then in a blow to the men in Black & White, Dan Rae went down with his knee injured. This is a real concern for the coaching team and hopefully it won’t be too serious.

As time ticked away, the pitch was hardening and sun was getting lower in the sky, but Perthshire still needed another try. From about halfway the trusty lineout provided good possession and leading by example Mat Rae again powered into the Greenock 22. The forwards then carried and were grinding down the defence. When the time was right Jack McIntosh retook control of the ruck and released the back line, Scott Alcorn on the wing the final recipient who sprinted down the touchline and danced past 2 defenders to score out wide. The conversion was missed but the try bonus secured.

Bizarrely, Greenock were awarded a penalty at the restart following some “ungentlemanly language” uttered from the lips of a Perthshire player. The home team took the lineout and worked well to score in the final minute. There was time for the restart but it went to touch and the final whistle blew, Greenock 49 – 24 Perthshire.

The bonus point secured could prove crucial in the final standings and Perthshire can be pleased to have taken something from the match against the league leaders. There was real character shown but also there must be frustration. Perthshire have shown they can match the best in the league for long periods, but the results don’t show that. A step forward and notable performances from Ewen MacDonald, Ross Dougan, Jonny Armitt and of course James Mair. It was also pleasing to have the vocal support of Callum Croughan from the side-lines, even if he didn’t make it on to the pitch (this time).

Next week the North Inch hosts Ardrossan who put 114 unanswered points past Caithness in the only other fixture that was played on Saturday. If Perthshire deliver a complete 80 minute performance, with the composure and fight they showed in the second half, then an upset could be on the cards. All supporters are encouraged to come to the North Inch for the final home match of 2019, kick-off 2pm.

The 2XV match against Bannockburn fell victim to the frost, but next week they will return to action with a visit to Panmure for a friendly.

Perthshire U16’s hold their nerve against Boroughmuir

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As we approach the sharp end of the Shogun Conference, Perthshire U16’s had to hold their nerve against a tough Boroughmuir side who like Perthshire had thoughts going into this game of clinching the vital points which could eventually determine which team qualifies for the National Youth Cup Competition. The game had to be moved to the new 3G pitch at the Regional Performance centre in Dundee to ensure the game could be played amid concerns mid week about the condition of the pitches down at the Inch.

The game itself was a very close high quality game where contrasting styles made it a very interesting game for the neutral observer. Boroughmuir had put their faith in their big forward pack against the more versatile Perthshire side who preferred to run the ball wide at every opportunity.  In the end a great defensive effort combined with the ability to play wide open rugby won through for the Perthshire boys winning the game 24-17. Perthshire now move up to 4th in the table and if they overcome a struggling Biggar side on Wednesday evening they will jump up to 2nd with only 2 games remaining in the conference.

Unfortunately there were reverse fortunes for our U15’s and Colts  and the U13 and U14 games were cancelled as the pitches down at Meggetland were unplayable. Next weekend the Perthshire Midis take on Highland RFC.

 

Battling Perthshire Bogged Down in Thurso

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Revitalised Caithness subdue depleted 1XV.

Caithness 29 – 20 Perthshire

Saturday was a must win for Perthshire playing against fellow strugglers Caithness. The Thurso men had been facing a tough time but a new coaching team came in this week which heralded the return of ex-players and rejuvenation of the club. It was going to be a tough match.

Perthshire were also hit with bad luck before the match: injuries & availability for the long journey North meant only 17 players travelled, a number of whom were just back from or carrying an injury. It was to be compounded in the warm-up when Captain Ryan Miller dislocated his finger, but with no replacement backs he was forced to play 80 minutes without the full use of his left hand.

Facing into the wind and uphill for the first half, Perthshire kicked off and immediately put Caithness under pressure. There was strong defence stopping the Greens from making any headway. The line-speed and commitment were on point, Caithness were going nowhere; and then trying to round they dropped a pass out wide. Sammy Isac scooped it up, turned on the pace and ran 50m to score under the posts. Calum Bruce added the extras.

Perthshire claimed the restart but under resourced the ruck allowing Caithness to counter and win possession. Big tackles were made but the Thurso men slowly worked into the 22. A penalty for offside gave Caithness a kick to the corner where they claimed the lineout. Keeping it tight over about 8 phases Caithness managed to squeeze over for a hard worked converted try to level the scores.

Next it was Perthshire who built the attack. Working into the Caithness 22 ‘Shire kept it tight and were inching towards the line. The defence held and discipline was good from Caithness who were rewarded when Perthshire knocked on at the back of a ruck. The ball was cleared from the scrum.

Set piece has been a strong suit of Perthshire this season. However, the scrums were a lottery all day. Blair Twaddell, Ali Nisbet & Ewen MacDonald had the measure of the opposite front row but were not rewarded with the decisions from the referee. Lineouts were creaking for both teams effecting steals and overthrows at crucial times this would hurt Perthshire.

Caithness struck next. Similar to their first try, it was a case of slowly smashing tight through the forwards. The Perthshire line held out for the long siege: repelling attacking scrums, chop tackles bringing down the big men and when they got over the ball was held up. From the next scrum, the ‘Shire pack got the nudge and pushed it back. Caithness then again kept it tight and eventually were awarded with the score, to the consternation of the men in Black & White who believed they’d held it up again. The kick was good to make it 14-7.

Aggrieved Perthshire hit straight back. Under pressure in their own half, Caithness dropped the ball and Perthshire were in possession in the 22. A couple of tight phases were all that was needed before Ewen MacDonald picked from a ruck and burst through; tackled just short he stretched to touch down over the line. With the conversion from Calum Bruce it was all square at 14 apiece.

The rest of the half saw Perthshire with good plays but their mistakes and weakening lineout cost them territory and possession. It was a major blow when Blair Twaddell was forced off with an ankle injury, however, replacement Ryan Moon slotted in well and scrum dominance continued. With halftime beckoning Perthshire stole a lineout from Caithness and looked to clear. A miscommunication in the backs caused a hesitation then the pass was read by the Green’s centre who intercepted to score under the posts.

Halftime Caithness 21 – 14 Perthshire. A tactical change brought Ross Angus into the back row for Ewan MacKessack-Leitch but otherwise Head Coach Alan Clark told his team to keep up the work rate and the points would follow, especially now with the wind and slope in his team’s favour.

From the off it didn’t go to script. Perthshire surrendered possession and Caithness again slowly built the phases. Dan & Mat Rae put in many big hits and the Thurso men never got any change through the centres so kept it tight. They squeezed over out wide; the referee dismissive to appeals for holding on; Angus Walker & Ross Angus both getting over the ball but not rewarded for their efforts.

Caithness missed the conversion but now had a decent lead 26 – 14 and would spend the remaining 35 minutes defending it. Try as they might Perthshire weren’t playing rugby in the right places. Most of the second half, maybe 80-90%, was played in the ‘Shire half. The two times they escaped Caithness conceded penalties which Calum Bruce kicked over. It was all set for a close finish 26 – 20.

The score remained tight right until the final few minutes. Poor kicks, weak kick chase, floundering lineouts, forward passes, unlucky calls from the referee; nothing was going Perthshire’s way and they never got on to the front foot. Caithness to their credit kept it simple, holding Perthshire back and forcing them to play out.

With about 6 minutes left the Green’s won a penalty on front of the posts and took the points to go a score clear. Perthshire emptied the tank in the final minutes and tempers started to fray, but there was no repeat of last year’s heroic win at the death. It ended Caithness 29 – 20 Perthshire.

This marks the halfway point in the league. Perthshire have only 1 win to their name and sit firmly in the relegation zone, though do have 2 games in hand. There are no dominant teams and Perthshire have shown capability in all their matches. Bad luck has played its part but Perthshire need to continue training hard and must improve especially in the second 40 minutes and exiting safely their own half. The results can come and need to soon.

A similar story affected the 2XV. Away against a strong Waid Academy FP in a very wet Anstruther the match started with Perthshire on the front foot. Playing some good attacking rugby, however, they were guilty of not turning pressure into points. This was a match where the first try would be crucial and so it proved when Waid scored on the counter. Perthshire had over committed in attack and knocked on which Waid gladly picked up and sprinted to score. This pretty much set the scene for the match with men in Black & White always in the game, but just lacking in execution when reaching the Waid 22. Whereas Waid were the opposite and scored on most visits to the Perthshire 22.

The final score Waid Academy 53 – 0 Perthshire 2XV suggests a one-sided match. However, for the 2s there were a lot of positives: good attacking and tackling in awful weather. This game just got away from the 2s who were then always chasing and pushing maybe 1 pass too much. Spirits are high in 2s camp and they are starting to move into a series of games which will define the season.

With only this game played in Caledonia Midlands League 3 this week, due to lack of numbers in the other games, the fact that Perthshire 2s can field 21 players is a credit to the Club in getting players playing rugby.

Next up is another long trip for the 1s away to Greenock Wanderers who only narrowly won at the North Inch in the season opener. For the 2s it’s a home fixture against Bannockburn. Both matches kick-off at 2pm, all supporters are welcome to travel to Greenock or come to the North Inch for the 2XV match.

Perthshire Rugby Kit Sponsor Opportunities 2019-2021

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Perthshire Rugby Kit Sponsor Opportunities 2019-2021

Perthshire Rugby continues to be recognised as one of the leading providers of amateur rugby in Scotland.

As one of our valued supporters of Perthshire Rugby we would like to give your business the opportunity for your brand or logo to be featured on one of our team match tops as one of our Kit Sponsors. There are a variety of sponsorship options, front of shirt, back of shirt and sleeve. The sponsorship commitment would be for 2 years.

We will soon be placing an order for new strips for our Midi Section, Mini Section, Girls and Women. Please click the link below to see what options are available or alternatively for more information please do not hesitate to get in touch by emailing Carol Ann at admin@perthshire-rfc.co.uk.

Perthshire Rugby Sponsorship Opportunities & Tariffs 2019-2021

Thank you. Your support would be very greatly appreciated.

 

Fumbling Perthshire Turned Over by West

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Perthshire take a backwards step as unforced errors cost them dearly

Perthshire 10 – 20 West of Scotland

Perthshire did not have their troubles to seek this past week. A very late call off by Murrayfield Wanderers last weekend and the floodlight failure enforcing gym only training were not ideal. When it came to Saturday the pitch was hard in patches and it was uncertain the match would go ahead. These factors may have had an effect on Perthshire who seemed lacklustre and inaccurate for long periods of the match.

When 2pm came the pitch had thawed and West of Scotland kicked-off. James Mair gathered, and Perthshire took it to the visitors. Showing strong running and intensity they pushed upfield. West couldn’t get a hold of the ball, Angus Walker was turning them over at every ruck. A kick over the top forced an error from the West defence and Perthshire were awarded a scrum about 15m out from the line. The pack were solid, giving clean ball to Ryan Miller, he spun it to fly half Adam Dearden who had a pick of the back line players to choose from. His pass went to Jonny Armitt unseen by the defence as he sliced through, rounded the full back and touched down by the posts. No mistake as he converted his try.

Perthshire failed to clear their lines from the restart allowing West their first real possession. It was simple but effective rugby from the Burnbrae men, short passes and tight lines. Eventually, despite desperate Perthshire defence, they smashed their way over near the corner for an unconverted score.

Having started brightly inaccuracies were beginning to hamper Perthshire. Unable to get much go forward the ball was surrendered cheaply on multiple occasions. However, the set piece was working well and West weren’t really able to take advantage.

West played the conditions well utilising an effective kicking game. Perthshire were caught short and fumbled in their own half conceding an attacking scrum to West. The pack heaved to disrupt and it was unclean ball for the visitors but a defensive mix-up in the centres allowed West through for their second score. It too went unconverted. Perthshire 7 – 10 West of Scotland.

The men in black & white hit back and West were called offside in their 22. With the scrum dominating rather than take a simple 3 points they opted for a scrum. A solid platform and the backline were surging forward. The last pass was dropped and West were momentarily safe. From just outside the 22 Perthshire again started to build the attack with a few phases of tight play then half-breaks in the backline. The momentum was building but further knock-ons and isolated runners squandered any opportunity and West were able to fully clear.

The remainder of the first half was similar. Perthshire fighting to work upfield only to be their own worst enemy and lose it. Good tactical kicking from West would force the men in black & white back to square one. The defence was just holding as West had numerous attacks thwarted. The lineout & scrum dominance was keeping Perthshire in the game.

Half time came and Perthshire knew they need to start playing rugby in the opposition half and exit quickly to relieve pressure rather than try to play out.

The second half started promisingly as Perthshire got into the West 22 and won a penalty. This time they opted to go for goal and Jonny Armitt duly slotted the kick. All square Perthshire 10 – 10 West of Scotland.

As with the past few games ‘Shire waned as the match proceeded. Still fighting but very slow they were holding on, but only just. Mistakes compounded mistakes and with a change in the pack the scrum started going backwards.

West had numerous 5m scrums which with the soft ground they were pushing the distance, however, a knock-on, fumble or holding the ball up would save Perthshire. It couldn’t last forever and eventually a West pass didn’t go to hand but ‘Shire weren’t looking up and the West No. 8 picked it up as the defending players parted, like the Red Sea for Moses, for an easy walk over to score. West had a bad day with the boot; it was now Perthshire 10 – 15 West of Scotland.

The restart went straight out and again Perthshire were under huge pressure in the scrum. The North Inch crowd of ex-players couldn’t believe how difficult Perthshire were making it for themselves. Mistake, knock-on, accidental offside, loose kick, no kick-chase, isolated runners; hard work would be undone making it all too easy for West.

Perthshire were let off some more when West dropped the ball over the line, missed a penalty and again were held up from a driving scrum. It was frantic stuff. With about 10 minutes left on the clock Perthshire won a turnover and set upfield. West were offside at the ruck and a penalty kick went to touch for a lineout 20m from the try line. Having worked well all day the lineout failed and West were given the option to exit. Perthshire pressurised but couldn’t get it back and were soon down in their own half.

The match ended with West of Scotland breaking clear from just outside the 22 to score in the corner, earning them the bonus point win and denying any league points for the Home team. Final score Perthshire 10 – 20 West of Scotland.

The 2XV were playing at home too against local rivals Crieff, but they also had a bad day. It was a similar theme with unforced errors in attack and missed tackles contributing to a 7 – 70 loss.

Next week will again feature two home matches on the North Inch. The 1XV face newly promoted local rivals Strathmore and the 2XV have a friendly against Carnoustie. All supporters are encouraged to come down and cheer on your team. It will have to be a hard week’s training to sort out the errors or as we approach the halfway point in the season or the outlook will again look dangerous near the bottom of the table.

A Eulogy to Georgie Watson by Adam Pattinson

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A Eulogy to Georgie Watson

On Friday 1st November, family and friends gathered to say our final fairwells to the wonderful Granny G.  We would like to share this moving eulogy delivered by Adam Pattinson who summed up just how much she meant to the club and her boys, perfectly.

Georgie Watson was, quite simply, a giant of Perthshire Rugby.  Now, while she didn’t exactly stand head and shoulders over anyone (well, maybe apart from 1st XV captain Ryan Miller), it was the enormity of her dedication, devotion, compassion and generosity for her club and ‘her boys’ that made her the unassuming, but towering matriarchal figure that she was.

Georgie’s presence has been keenly felt at the club for the best part of  20 years. During this time, she was always at the forefront when it came to helping with the running of match days for the 1st XV. For years, she and her beloved Graham would be found working in harmony, patrolling the side-lines selling programmes. Sometimes Georgie even found the time to watch the match. You could always rely on Granny G to give an honest appraisal of what she saw. If you played well, she would let you know. If you didn’t, feedback was, thankfully, always given constructively.

Behind the scenes, Georgie worked tirelessly for the club. As a most dedicated follower and committee member, her time and support were always freely given. Her generosity in producing food for the committee, providing prizes for the raffle and for the players was, frankly, unbelievable. Georgie was determined to make the experience for visiting clubs as welcoming and hospitable as possible. She resoundingly succeeded in that. This generosity did not escape the attention of our visitors and was reciprocated when Georgie supported the boys away from home.

Such was the indelible impression she made, Georgie was frequently invited to join in the pre-match festivities when travelling to other clubs. I know this is something for which she was truly grateful, but something for which she was fully deserving. With Georgie gone, it is not just Perthshire Rugby Club that is in mourning. Many other clubs have also expressed their sadness, making crystal clear just how well-respected and well-loved she was across the board.

As a player, you always felt a little glow when you knew Granny G was supporting you, whether home or away. Whenever I walked past her seat before getting off the bus, she would always reach out, take my arm and offer a few words of encouragement. Those words always helped me to focus and give my best on the pitch. I will always treasure those special wee moments of support when I think of Georgie, and I know there are many players, past and present, who have similar memories of time spent with Granny G to cherish. Hold on to them.

When we lose a loved one, those left behind struggle to feel much other than grief and loss. Georgie would certainly not want us to be bothering with anything like that! She believed in living life to the full and that’s just what she did. There were very few people of her years who could have kept up with a bus-load of rugby players, but she managed! She enjoyed many a bus trip and a glass or two, or three of G&T but somehow never appeared remotely affected. The same cannot be said about the players at the back of the bus!

Normally, an away bus trip for an amateur player is a total hassle. Earlier meet times, more time away from family, friends, partners, X Boxes and so on. However, the same cannot be said for Perthshire bus trips when Granny G was coming along. It is time now to reflect on her most famous contribution to the rugby club… Granny G’s legendary millionaire shortbread!

For years, players would relish the challenge of trips to Dumfries, Ardrossan or Caithness as long as there was the sweet relief of a slice or two of that shortbread on the way home. In hindsight, we would have won far more matches if we were only rewarded with it following a victory, but Granny G would share the love win, lose or draw. People in my family still talk about after I asked her to make a batch for Claire and my engagement party. I had hoped for a nice Tupperware full for the gathered crew. Let’s just say I was delighted when four appeared! Typical Georgie generosity.

Without doubt, Georgie’s support kept the rugby club going, but the rugby club played its part in keeping Georgie going, too. In good times and bad, getting out an about in the company of close friends gave the club as big a lift as it gave her. Georgie would never have considered herself to be a giant of the club, such was her nature, but if she’s having a look down on us just now, G&T in hand and Graham by her side again, I hope she realises just how important she was and just how much she will be missed. Granny G, you may be gone, but your family, your friends, your club and your boys will not forget you.

All our love.

 

A message from Claire, Georgie’s Grandaughter

The Watson family would like to take this opportunity to express their deepest gratitude and appreciation for all the lovely messages of love and kindness shown to them on the loss of Georgie. They have been truly touched by the support they have received from Perthshire Rugby, its Supporters, Sponsors and the wider Rugby Club community who have taken the time to pay tribute to Granny G. She will be sorely missed by us all.

 

Golden Eagles Soar to Victory

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On Saturday the Golden Eagles played a curtain raiser before the 1st XV cup tie against Howe of Fife RFC in Cupar, Fife. Not to be confused with The Wee Cooper who lived in Fife, Nickety, Nackety, noo, noo, noo!

We assembled early at the ground and it appeared that we were taking this game seriously as there was no sign of any alcohol in the changing room! The kit bag was produced, and the shirt lottery began. This wasn’t for your position number but more for one that fitted. This led to the sight of Big Dave pulling on the number 9 shirt and although he squeezed it over his mighty shoulders it was not long enough, and it did not cover his 12 pack. As he thought the sight might frighten small children and inflame any ladies present he changed it for a better fitting one. Eventually we were all kitted out and in a waft of ralgex we headed for the warm up.

As we only had 13 players a short discussion about positions was held and we went with traditional method of selection. 3 fat blokes in the front row, 2 tallest at 2nd row, team nutter at 7 and the more mobile fat bloke at No. 8. The backs were as follows gobby wee man at scrum half, the one with the most hair product and moisturiser at 10, slight fast guys on the wings, not so slight guys but faster than forwards at centre. After we stretched what needed stretching and ignored any pinging noises we had a quick run though of some moves.

Finally, we were ready to start. Howe kicked off and we gathered the ball and made our way up the pitch. After some good passing and drives by the forwards space was made for Jeremy to crash over from short range to score the opening try. The first half continued in a similar vein with the Eagles keeping Howe pinned back in their own half. There were quite a few handling errors in the first half which was surprising as you would have thought that the Fifers with their extra finger on each hand would have been better at handling. The forwards were dominating the scrums to such an extent that they managed a rarity in this modern age of taking two strikes against the head. The scrums were so dominant that for the second half Howe put some non- front row players in the scrum so that the scrums would be uncontested!!

With Andy Cummings pulling the strings (and muscles) in the midfield we ran in either 4 or 5 tries in the first half. I’m not sure which as I was only asked to write the match report after the game so wasn’t taking notes. Also, as I was playing it would have been quite difficult. The highlight of the first half was Jez picking the ball up from the base of the scrum “sprinting” forward and when tackled gave an excellent offload to Andy Cummings who scampered past 2/3 defenders to score. Luckily this was captured on video to prove that at least part of this report is true and its not all made up.

The second half provided more of the same with Perthshire dominating play. Our scrum half, Mikey, played in the traditional manner i.e. being offside, constantly chirping at the ref and not passing. This led to him eventually not being fit enough to continue at scrum half and move to the wing from which position he managed to score a try. Some excellent handling moves with the ball being passed out wide led to further tries. The highlight of which was the sight of Stevie the prop bringing out

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his inner Lomu, charging up the wing bouncing defenders off on the way to score. According to Stevie his run started in our in goal and was at least a 150m sprint.

At the end the Eagles ran out comfortable winners by a score of 51 – 5. 8 different players scored tries with Gareth scoring twice. A very pleasing performance from players who ranged in age from 35 – 54. Players who had not played since school or for over 20 years, while others were only recently gracing the 2nd XV and who had not trained together.

Team

1. StevieWilkie
2. EwanMacnee
3. Smudge(Sorrythat’sallJezputontheteamsheet.) 4. DaveLewis
5. StewartSouter
6. AnthoneyClark
8. JeremyWares(C)
9. MikeRyan
10.Andy Cummings
11.Liam Mowatt
12.Joe Rose
13.Gareth O’Neill
14.David Shaw

Scorers
Jez, Smudge, Andy, Mike, Dave S, Stevie, Dave L and Gareth (2)

Excuse me if I got anyone’s name wrong as Jez’s hand written team sheet was not the easiest to read.

Perthshire Ahead at Halftime but Again Let the Lead Slip

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Depleted squad show heart and good skills but are undone by a shrewd Howe of Fife.

Howe of Fife 27 – 12 Perthshire

Only 2 weeks have passed since Perthshire made the short journey to Cupar to face old rival Howe of Fife in the league. This weekend it was the first round of the National League Cup that took the men in black & white back to Duffus Park.

It was hoped to be a 3 team Saturday with the options of Perthshire fielding 1XV, 2XV and Veterans teams against Howe. Unfortunately, a series of recent injuries, outbreak of the flu and players away saw the cancellation of the 2XV match and the 1XV could not even manage to fill the squad; with only 18 when 23 were allowed. The team that ran out could be described as “experimental.”

Like a fortnight earlier it was a game of two halves. Perthshire started the brightest and brought real intensity & purpose to the opening minutes. They were unlucky to come away with nothing from multiple visits to the Howe 22. It was against the run of play when a defensive mix up allowed Howe to open the scoring.

Perthshire showed endeavour to work back into Howe territory. After building the phases a large overlap materialised on the left wing. Stand-in fly half Jonny Armitt put in a sweet cross field kick collected by Aidan Watson who used his pace to burn the full back and score a classy try.

The set piece was dominant, the scrum pushing Howe all over the pitch – it was surprising that next to no penalties were awarded against the retreating Howe pack. The lineouts too were working like clockwork with the safe hands of James Mair and Ewan MacKessack-Leitch retaining Perthshire ball while stealing & disrupting the Howe throws.

It was a rare mistake that saw Howe pounce once more to score their second try after a loose ball in the Perthshire 22. Again, the boys worked back but a series of penalties won failed to make touch giving Howe easy options to exit.

The intensity & pace of the match brought by both sides was high. After a sustained attack Perthshire were isolated and penalised for holding on deep in opposition territory. This time Howe missed touch and Sammy Isac collected. He’s nicknamed the “Tanzanian Wizard” and demonstrated why. Rather than use the men inside he stormed down the touchline, chipped over the top, collected then somehow went up another gear to scorch the earth as he made the line. Jonny Armitt added the extras to make it 10-12 in Perthshire’s favour.

The rest of the first half was about keen defence and Perthshire held out. Howe were throwing everything to get ahead, but the whistle blew with Perthshire in front at the break.

The next 15 minutes saw the energy levels of both teams rise. With the slope Howe of Fife were gaining good ground and eventually made the difference with an unconverted try. The referee was struggling to control both teams as passions ran high. Still somehow the scrum dominance did not earn penalties and many times Perthshire were unlucky not to win more penalties at ruck time with Howe playing to the limit of the laws. Mat Rae partnered well with Ross Goodison in the centre to make strong inroads; the latter must have a neck of steel for the number of high tackles he received, frustratingly most unsanctioned.

Another 2 tries from Howe would take them to a 27-12 victory. The bench was emptied as injuries took their toll. Andy “Combine” Jack has transformed in the past 2 games and had a run of carries and tackles that made a real impact, it was a blow when he was forced to leave after a knee rearranged his facial features. The back row covered acres of the pitch and if ever Howe broke through someone was there to track the ball down and kill off the attack. Debutants Rabson Chipakupaku & Angus McPherson performed admirably as did Kieran McLean who only recently made the step up from the Colts.

Late on in the match tempers flared with handbags & frank exchanges occurring off the ball. Eventually Captain Ryan Millar and a Howe prop were sent to the sin bin but Perthshire, for the most part, managed to maintain their discipline and gave no quarter.

Numerous boys in Black & White put in big shifts and the team spirit, aggression and desire has improved over the past few weekends. Of particular note were: the phenomenal work rate of Ross Dougan; Stevie Gray a constant thorn in the side of Howe; props Ewen MacDonald & Kieran Ramsay who dominated their opposite men in the scrum; and Jonny Armitt who deputised at fly half and controlled it well.

Next weekend, after the World Cup Final, Perthshire travel to face Murrayfield Wanderers where they managed an upset to win last year. If the energy & effort on the pitch continues to grow and with the impending return of a few injured players, the next part of the season could see Perthshire converting these halftime leads into full time results.

Georgina Watson: Notice of Funeral Service

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Dear Perthshire Rugby members

We have been advised that the funeral service for Georgina Watson will be held on Friday 1st November at Scone New Church, 12.30pm thereafter at Perth Crematorium at 2pm to which all family and friends are respectfully invited. Perthshire Rugby will be sending flowers with agreement of Georgie’s family. Donations, if desired, may be made to the Salvation Army.

Thank you

John McLaughlin

President

Perthshire Rugby

U15’s and U16’s take all the points down at Ayr!

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Its not a headline you have seen before but its true, our U15’s and U16’s made the long trip to Ayr on Sunday to take on Ayr/Wellington in round 7 of the Shogun Conference and both teams came away with full points in nail biting fashion. Both games were incredibly close right up to the final whistle with U15’s crashing over the line to win the game on the final play. The final score 26-28 to Perthshire. This will be a major confidence boost for the boys who got their season off to a very slow start but at last they found belief that they are capable of competing with best teams in the conference.

The U16’s were also involved in a classic and right up until the last few minutes the game could have gone either way, but the boys held firm even without their talisman no. 8 Doug Yellowley who was down in Cardiff playing for Glasgow Warriors U16’s, the boys still showed real determination and held out for a great win. Final score 24-35 to Perthshire. Next Sunday will be another big test as they take on table toppers Stirling County away at Bridgehaugh Park. Ko 2pm.

The fortunes of the midis were reversed however at home when our ultra reliable U14’s were beaten at home for the first time this season against the arguably best side in the conference. Maybe the 2 week October break was a factor but an under-strength Perthshire side seem to lose their shape in this game and Ayr ran out convincing winners 3-33. Next Sunday will be a chance to make amends with a home game V Stirling County. KO 2pm. Our U13’s had a week off this week but I’m sure they will be keen to get playing against Stirling County at home on the Inch next Sunday KO 2pm.

The Conference table at halfway looks as follows with Perthshire on the brink of breaking into the top 4. #montheshire

Team Rounds Points
Boroughmuir 7 82
Ayr / Wellington 7 80
Stirling County RFC 7 78
West of Scotland FC 7 72
Perthshire RFC 7 70
Highland RFC 7 65
Biggar RFC 7 60
Hamilton Rugby Club 7 47