August Archive
September Archive
October Archive
November Archive
December Archive
January Archive
Updated on: Wednesday, 05.03.08->
Up for the Cup
Thursday, 28-Feb-2008Falkirk will be out to take their second Premier Two scalp of the season on Saturday when they welcome Selkirk to Sunnyside in the fifth round of the Scottish Hydro Electric Cup.
The National League Division One side defeated Hillhead/Jordanhill in the last round and, although they know the Borderers will pose a sterner test, will be optimistic ahead of the tie which is likely to attract a large crowd.
Elsewhere in the fifth round holders Glasgow Hawks face an all top flight clash against Melrose at The Greenyards. When the two sides met in the league at the same venue back in September Melrose triumphed 32-25.
Last season's other finalists Edinburgh Accies have an even tougher trip to Meggetland to face league champions Boroughmuir.
In other eye catching ties West of Scotland will put their unbeaten home record to the test against Cammy Mather's Watsonians, while Dundee HSFP and Morgan meet in a City of Discovery affair, Berwick and Currie clash in a repeat of the 2006 semi final and Stewart's Melville welcome East Lothian men Musselburgh to Inverleith.
In fact the weekend could throw up all sorts of exciting matches and it will be intriguing to see which 16 clubs make it through to round six.
Remember to check the website over the weekend for all cup results and send information on your club's weekend exploits to gary@scrummagazine.com
Youngsters camp at Hillhead
Thursday, 28-Feb-2008Kilmarnock are looking for a third XV fixture this Saturday.
Any club interested should call Ali McCall on 07939281100. They are available to play home or away locally.
Meanwhile, Uddingston are looking for a first XV fixture for this Saturday.
A home game is preferred as the new clubhouse and changing rooms officially open on Friday. Anyone interested should call Dougie on 07730540910.
Youngsters camp at Hillhead
Wednesday, 27-Feb-2008Hillhead Jordanhill are running an Easter Rugby Camp for young players up to the age of 16.
It will take place on April 14, 15 and 16 at Hughenden.
Further details will be available shortly on the club's website www.hjrfc.com
City of Discovery derby greatly anticipated
Wednesday, 27-Feb-2008Dundee HSFP are greatly looking forward to this Saturday's cup tie against local rivals Morgan Academy.
Their official website stated;
I'm sure no-one's missed the news that Dundee have drawn city rivals Morgan in the fifth round of the Scottish Hydro Electric National Cup but some of you may not realise that it's the second time two of the combatants will have gone head-to-head after spending much of their playing careers as team-mates.
Dundee's captain, Lindsey Graham played alongside, and became firm friends with Morgan's Graham Kiddie while both were with Boroughmuir in Edinburgh only to find themselves on opposite sides when Boroughmuir beat Dundee in the Scottish Cup final in 2005.
This latest meeting between the two comes at a time when rugby is enjoying a purple patch in the City of Discovery. With Dundee and Morgan playing in the Premier Leagues, the rugby community has also welcomed back Harris FP to league rugby after a nine year hiatus.
Junior rugby is also thriving and is being re-introduced to the schools thanks to the hard work of a small but dedicated group of development officers that have been part-funded by clubs in the city. To have two city clubs vying for a place in the last 16 of the national cup is a huge boost for the ongoing rugby revival in Dundee. To have them playing each other adds a special piquancy that is already being savoured with eager anticipation at Mayfield.
Apart from the Boroughmuir connection, the careers of several players who could face each other at Mayfield have involved both clubs. Morgan have Graham Kiddie and Paul Romanowski who have both played in Dundee's colours while Dundee can boast several ex-Morgan men in their ranks who have gone on to play their part in Premier One, Melrose Sevens and Scottish Cup finals. Ross Lemon, Kenny Watt and Ryan Milne are all raring to go and will be pushing hard for selection.
But old friendships will be put aside for 80 minutes on Saturday between 3pm and 4.30pm as the familiarity both sets of players have off the field will become fierce rivalry on it.
Dundee's age-group and club internationalists will pit their wits against Morgan's seasoned ex-pros in what promises to be a rugby highlight that will be talked about for years to come.
Watsonian’s and Stew Mel cruise to wins in the Cup
Sunday, 24-Feb-2008Both Watsonian’s and Stewart’s Melville won their fourth round ties of the Scottish Hydro Electric National Cup with emphatic victories. In the only two fixtures of the weekend, both clubs managed to secure solid wins. Newton Stewart RFC lost to Watsonian’s 5-43, while Stewart’s Melville travelled to Crieff and Strathearn RFC and won 39-0.
Both fixtures were re-arranged from 16th February. Stewart’s Melville now face Musselburgh in the 5th round, while Watsonian’s travel to West of Scotland.
Spirited Scotland just misses out in Donnybrook
Sunday, 24-Feb-2008The Scottish Club International side were narrowly beaten by Ireland in their second club international game of the year. The side that defeated Wales earlier in February couldn’t manage to repeat the win in Dublin, despite a battling performance that saw the scores finish at 20-15.
It was Scotland that opened the scoring courtesy of a penalty by Watsonian’s Andrew Skeen on seven minutes. But Ireland hit back soon after with a try by Max Rantz Macdonald, although they couldn’t manage to convert. However they were awarded a penalty several minutes later which stand-off Barry Keeshan slotted home.
Scotland battled back a little later in the game, with Marc Teague finishing off a move started in their own half with an unconverted try. This drew the scores level and put Scotland right back into the game. However Keeshan put away two more penalties either side of half time which looked like putting the game beyond Scotland.
This was compounded by two more penalties later in the second half, but the Irish were given a fright when Graeme Dodds who had come on as a replacement crossed the line for a late try. Unfortunately it wasn’t enough, and Ireland managed to hang on for the win.
Rankin urging fans Ireland-bound to get down to Donnybrook
Thursday, 21-Feb-2008Scotland's Club International side are on the verge of a unique double, and Head Coach Ian Rankin is urging any Scottish supporters who are heading to Dublin this weekend to cheer on the team.
The side beat Wales in Caerphilly two weeks ago and have never won on Irish soil so to win two away games in a fortnight would be some feat for a team who has barely trained together and would show that standards in the Scottish club game are rising.
Rankin told The SCRUM: "It really is going to be a cracking match and a great atmosphere and I hope as many Scottish supporters who are in Dublin for the weekend come and cheer the team on.
"We know this will be a tough test [Scotland lost at Donnybrook o yrs ago, but beat them at Meggetland last year] and the guys are ready for it."
The match at Donnybrook kicks off at 7.35pm on Friday night.
And remember SCRUM Editor Gary Heatly will be there again, as he was in Wales, to bring you the best coverage and reaction to the match in March's issue of the magazine. To subscribe do so via this link.
Scotland Club International: S Ruddick (Boroughmuir)
M Teague (Heriot's)
G
Thomson (Dundee HSFP)
M Clapperton (Boroughmuir)
R Couper (Boroughmuir)
A
Skeen (Watsonians)
R Snedden (Currie)
B McNeil (Heriot's)
S Crombie
(Boroughmuir)
J Welsh (GHA)
D Kelly (Ayr)
A Adam (Currie)
T McVie
(Heriot's) captain
R Weston (Currie)
A Martyn (Boroughmuir).
Subs:
P
MacArthur (Ayr), G Mountford (Stirling County), G Dodds (Melrose), G Oommen
(Dundee HSFP)
G Cottrell (Boroughmuir)
C Goudie (Heriot's)
D Brown
(Watsonians).
Cup continues, while Gordonians can win league
Thursday, 21-Feb-2008
Crieff & Strathearn and Newton Stewart will be looking to do some giant killing this weekend as the Scottish Hydro Electric Cup round four ties are completed.
Caledonia League Division One side Crieff & Strathearn welcome Premier Two Stewart's Melville FP to King George V Playing Fields, while Newton Stewart from National League Two host top flight side Watsonians at Bladnoch Park.
The winners of the first tie will take on Musselburgh in round five next Saturday. Whoever wins the Newton Stewart-Watsonians tie will face a testing trip to Premier Two leaders West of Scotland seven days later.
Meanwhile, Gordonians, pictured, can clinch the Caledonia League Division One title on Saturday with a win over Stirling County on Saturday in a rearranged league match.
Remember to keep us updated with all of the rugby goings on in your area by emailing gary@scrummagazine.com and check back on the site over the weekend and early next week for all the latest news and results.
Cup draw made
Wednesday, 20-Feb-2008Holders Glasgow Hawks face a testing trip to fellow top flight side Melrose in the fifth round draw of the Scottish Hydro Electric Cup, which was made at Murrayfield.
The draw, made by former Scotland hooker Kevin McKenzie and the SRU's Head of Community Rugby Colin Thomson, also features a number of intriguing local derbies: Boroughmuir v Edinburgh Accies in the Capital is a repeat of last season's semi-final; Kelso v Gala in the Borders; and an all-Dundee clash between Dundee HSFP and Morgan Academy FP.
Hawks have played Melrose twice this season in Scottish Hydro Electric Premiership Division One, winning at home and losing at the Greenyards.
McKenzie's own clubFalkirk, who accounted for Premiership opponents Hillhead/Jordanhill in the fourth round, have a home tie against Selkirk in round five.
McKenzie and Thomson also made the draws for the Scottish Hydro Electric Shield, Scottish Hydro Electric Bowl and Scottish Hydro Electric Plate competitions.
Scottish Hydro Electric Cup Round 5 (ties to be played on Saturday 1 March)
Boroughmuir v Edinburgh Accies
Jed-Forest v Stirling County
Cartha Queens Park v Ayr
Melrose v Glasgow Hawks
Livingston v Hamilton
Kelso v Gala
Dundee HSFP v Morgan Academy FP
Dumfries v Hawick
Dunfermline v Aberdeen GSFP
Crieff & Strathearn or Stewart's-Melville FP v Musselburgh
Biggar v GHA
Berwick v Currie
Haddington v Peebles
Perthshire v Heriot's
West of Scotland v Newton Stewart or Watsonians
Falkirk v Selkirk
Scottish Hydro Electric Shield
Round 1 (ties to be played on Saturday 1 March)
Bye - Cumbernauld
Lasswade v Aberdeenshire
Murrayfield Wanderers v Hawick YM
Highland v Cambuslang
RHC v Newton Stewart or Watsonians
Hillhead/Jordanhill v Moray
Kirkcaldy v Glasgow University
East Kilbride v Ellon
Broughton v Forrester
Gordonians v Annan
Garnock v Hawick Harlequins
Whitecraigs v Kilmarnock
Kinross v Ardrossan Accies
Marr v Ross High
Glasgow Accies v Irvine
Howe of Fife v Crieff & Strathearn or Stewart's-Melville FP
Scottish Hydro Electric Bowl
Round 2 (ties to be played on Saturday 1 March)
East
Duns v Preston Lodge FP
Linlithgow v Trinity Accies
Caledonia
Grangemouth v Hillfoots/Alloa
Banff or Caithness v Strathmore
West
Helensburgh v Lenzie
Allan Glen's v Strathendrick
Loch Lomond v Wigtownshire
Stewartry v Millbrae or Dalziel
Scottish Hydro Electric Plate
Round 3 (ties to be played on Saturday 1 March)
East
Edinburgh Northern or Earlston v Gala YM
Meggetland v Portobello
West
Cumnock v Oban Lorne
GHK v Islay
Clydebank v Isle of Mull or Bishopton
Caledonia
Huntly or Aberdeen Wanderers v Mackie Academy FP
Harris Academy FP v Aberdeen University
St Andrews University or Ross Sutherland v Aboyne or Blairgowrie HSFP
Robertson backs stand-off Jackson
Monday, 18-Feb-2008
Scotland under-20 head coach Colin Robertson praised Ruaridh Jackson's competitive streak after handing the Glasgow youngster the number 10 shirt for the Six Nations match against Ireland at Dubarry Park on Friday evening.
Jackson recorded his first Magners League appearance of the season when he came off the bench during Glasgow's defeat at Llanelli Scarlets on Friday night and impressed Robertson with his tenacity.
Now the 20-year-old has been assigned the role of stand-off; replacing James Murray; after previous outings at outside centre during Scotland's opening two defeats against France and Wales.
Robertson said:"Ruaridh certainly is a competitor as he showed for Glasgow the other night. He is a tidy player, a balanced stand-off with good passing skills.
"Both Ruaridh and James Murray are good stand-offs, but they have slightly different styles. James has done a lot of good stuff, but we are just looking at slightly different approaches during a 10-Test season."
Team manager John Jeffrey also highlighted Jackson's creativity and believes the young Warrior will make an impact against Ireland.
Jeffrey said:"Ruaridh has got very good distribution skills. He will be able to move the ball to the backs."
Jeffrey pinpointed a lack of accuracy during the side's previous two matches as being the chief factor behind the team's lack of initial success.
He added:"We looked at our two previous matches so far and we felt we had not been accurate enough.
"We have had stages where we have done well, but that has not been for long enough.
"We have not executed our plays well enough, so we have been working on that to make sure we get it right."
Meanwhile, Jonny Baird, son of former Scotland and British and Irish Lions winger Roger, returns to the base of the scrum after a lay-off with blurred vision.
Jeffrey believes the Edinburgh-born teenager will bring poise and mobility to the Scotland pack for what will prove to be a gruelling test.
He said:"Jonny is a genuine No8; he brings control to the base of the scrum and adds some athleticism as well.
"But Craig Simmonds came in and did a good job for us against Wales, so for that he has kept his place on the bench and we will use him as an impact substitute."
London Scottish's Matthew Heeks has been selected to start alongside Jackson in a new-look half-back combination while Chris Kinloch moves from the wing to outside centre.
Dunfermline's Johnny Smart has been handed the number 11 shirt and steps up after impressing at under-19 level.
Scotland under-20 squad to play Ireland at Dubarry Park, Athlone (Friday 22 February, kick-off 7.30pm): Murray Allan (Loughborough University); Tom Bury (Boroughmuir and National Junior Academy), Chris Kinloch (Edinburgh Academicals and National Senior Academy), Stephen McColl (Dunfermline and National Junior Academy), 11 Johnny Smart (Dunfermline); Ruaridh Jackson (Glasgow Hawks and National Senior Academy), Matthew Heeks (London Scottish); Gary Strain (Glasgow Hawks and National Junior Academy), Adrian Duncan (Stewart's-Melville FP and National Senior Academy), Lewis Niven (Edinburgh Academicals), Josh Brown (Bristol), Neale Patrick (Dunfermline), Fraser McKenzie (Heriot's and National Senior Academy), Jonny Baird (Leicester University), Lewis Calder Newcastle Falcons).
Substitutes: Fraser Brown (Biggar), Angus Dixon (Aberdeen Grammar Rugby), Craig Simmonds (Heriot's), Steven Burton (Currie), Ross Samson (Newcastle Falcons), James Murray (Leeds Carnegie and Edinburgh Academicals), Lee Jones (Selkirk).
Unchanged Club International side for Donnybrook
Monday, 18-Feb-2008Scotland have named an unchanged team for their second club international of the season, against Ireland in Dublin on Friday.
The Scots, sponsored by Belhaven Best, who accounted for their Welsh counterparts, 34-7, at Caerphilly earlier this month, are expecting a testing encounter.
"We know it will be a step-up from the Welsh game. Our experience against the Irish in previous years is that they are a big side with a very physical approach to the forward exchanges," said the Scots' head coach Ian Rankin.
His squad trained on Sunday and Rankin expressed his gratitude to club coaches for their management of players during Scottish Hydro Electric Cup ties at the weekend, which ensured players were relatively fresh for the practice.
Scotland won the corresponding fixture at Meggetland last year. Rankin added:
"That was a massive win for us and I know Ireland will be looking to gain revenge."
The match will be shown live on RTE2 TV in Ireland but Rankin is hoping that many Scots will head for Donnybrook to encourage his team.
SCRUM Editor Gary Heatly will be there so keep an eye out on the website and the March issue of the magazine for the best coverage from Donnybrook.
Scotland Club International team v Ireland Club International team at
Donnybrook, Dublin on Friday 22 February (kick-off 7.35pm):
Stephen Ruddick
(Boroughmuir)
Marc Teague (Heriot's)
Graham Thomson (Dundee HSFP)
Malcolm
Clapperton
Rory Couper (both Boroughmuir)
Andrew Skeen (Watsonians)
Richard Snedden (Currie)
Bruce McNeil (Heriot's)
Sean Crombie
(Boroughmuir)
Jon Welsh (GHA)
Damien Kelly (Ayr)
Andy Adam (Currie)
Tam
McVie (Heriot's)
Ross Weston (Currie)
Angus Martyn (Boroughmuir)
Substitutes:
Pat MacArthur (Ayr)
Garry Mountford (Stirling County)
Graeme
Dodds (Melrose)
George Oommen (Dundee HSFP)
Greg Cottrell (Boroughmuir)
Colin Goudie (Heriot's)
Dougie Brown (Watsonians).
Falkirk defeat Hillhead on exciting cup weekend
Sunday, 17-Feb-2008
Falkirk, who have already been promoted from National League Division One this season, pulled off a Scottish Hydro Electric Cup shock with a 17-12 win over Premier Two strugglers Hillhead/Jordanhill on Saturday.
National League Division Two side Dumfries beat Premier Three side Ellon 12-10 in another upset at Park Farm, while Stirling County and Selkirk were pushed all the way by underdogs Lasswade and Garnock before eventually scraping through.
Elsewhere in the round four ties there were few other surprises, with all the other Premiership teams making it through.
At Wardie SCRUM Editor Gary Heatly watched an entertaining tie between Broughton and GHA, pictured.
Te home side from East League Division One gave as good as they got in the first half, trailing 24-12 at the break and scoring good tries through Adam McFarlane and Nick Keenan. The fitness of Premier One outfit GHA showed after the break as they ran out 57-12 winners, but Broughton can be proud of their showing.
Keep checking back on the website over the weekend for all the results, and email gary@scrummagazine.com if you have any news or photos from your side’s tie.
Jedburgh GS bowl over St Columba's
Sunday, 17-Feb-2008Hawick Harlequins were hosting Hamilton in the fourth round of the Scottish Hydro Electric Cup this weekend after themselves and Duns had their disqualifications overturned.
The sides were told of the news just minutes before their third round tie on Thursday evening, with 'Quins causing a shock to win 8-6.
An SRU statement said;An appeal by the clubs over their disqualification from the Scottish Hydro Electric Cup was upheld by an independent appeals panel.
The panel, comprising chairman, Sheriff Bill Dunlop, Ken Scotland and Donald Naismith, ruled that as the clubs had shown enterprise by agreeing to play their third round tie on Thursday night, and that their scheduled fourth round opponents, Hamilton, would now have a fixture at the weekend, it served the "best interests of the game" to uphold the appeal.
The Panel also considered an appeal from Hawick Linden, similarly disqualified by the independent Championship Committee following their non-fulfilment of a third round Scottish Hydro Electric Cup tie against Langholm last weekend.
Here the Panel upheld the Championship Committee's decision to exclude Hawick Linden from this season's competition but felt it was "harsh and oppressive" to exclude them from next year's competition. Accordingly the Panel ruled that Hawick Linden could compete in next year's Scottish Hydro Electric Cup competition.
Jedburgh GS bowl over St Columba's
Thursday, 14-Feb-2008Jedburgh Grammar won the Bell Lawrie Scottish Schools Under-18 Bowl Final in an exciting contest against St Columba's Kilmacolm at Malleny Park, Currie, this week.
Jed's victorious team co-ordinator, Fraser Forrest, told The SCRUM:
"It was a great match and the guys were chuffed to bits to win."
Both teams started the match strongly sharing possession and territory but it was Jedburgh that made the breakthrough on 18 minutes with a superb run from centre Andrew Nagle who found a hole in the St Columba's ranks off lineout ball to score the first try of the match. Nagle then converted to make it 7-0.
St Columba's responded well with powerful play from their forwards almost making headway into the Jedburgh 22, but gave away a penalty and subsequently lost momentum.
Jedburgh pushed up the park and were awarded a scrum deep inside the St Columba's danger zone and quick-thinking from the Jed scrum-half, Euan Fowler, saw the captain scoot in for the second try of the night after 25 minutes. Nagle missed the conversion to leave Jed with a 12-0 half-time advantage.
St Columba's started the second half purposefully and their hard work paid off when wing David Smith weaved his way through a sea of blue jerseys to score their first try of the night. The conversion was missed but St Columba's were back in the match trailing 5-12.
The second half wore on and both teams showed the sort of defensive play that brought them to the final but it was Jed that had the clinical touch, Fowler displaying another smart try off scrum ball 22 minutes into the second half.
St Columba's fought hard to the very end and looked like scoring at the death but Jed stood firm in defence.
Tonights man of the match was Jeds centre Scott Blackie. He was presented with his award by Karen Adamson of Bell Lawrie.
Jedburgh GS:
Sean Bullerwell
Cameron Lauder
Scott Blackie
Andrew Nagle
Euan Oliver
Sean Wood
Euan Fowler (captain)
Chris Page
Connor
Angus
McInnes
James Oliver
Daryll Lockett
Douglas McGovern
Alexander Mackay
Bruce Cockburn
Subs:
Michael Gibson
Jamie Anderson
Gary Hogg
Alisdair
Dawson
Oliver Robertson
St Columbas Kilmacolm:
Stuart Gray
David Smith
Jamie Binning
Kyle Bailey
David Conn
Christopher Rhodes
Craig Steel
Jonathan Cawte
Jamie
Yacoubian
Calum McQueen
Christopher Johnstone
David Morrison (captain)
Sean McAlindon
Kyle Nish
Euan Malcolm
Subs:
Fraser Davidson
Kris Mathie
Stephen Kirwan
Fraser McDonald
Christopher Scott
Jonathan Lawrie
Andrew
Park.
Photos and more on this match will appear in the March issue of The SCRUM.
Kinross through to face Currie
Thursday, 14-Feb-2008Kinross secured a dramatic 9-6 extra-time win over Glenrothes in the Scottish Hydro Electric Cup on Wednesday night.
The Caledonia League Division One outfit will now face Currie in round four on Saturday.
Kinross had led 6-0 at the break, only for Glenrothes to fight back. However, the home side slotted a drop goal in extra-time to set up a date with the 2006 finalists.
Kinross President Douglas Cruickshank said:
"It was an evenly fought battle and a good game. The guys can't wait to face Currie now."
1 SCOTS Rugby Sevens cancelled this year
Thursday, 14-Feb-2008The SCRUM has been informed that due to operational commitments, the 1 SCOTS Rugby Sevens, normally held at Dreghorn Barracks in Edinburgh during May, has had to be cancelled this year.
Watsonians won the event last season.
Is your club holding an upcoming tournament? Email us at gary@scrummagazine.com and let us know.
Back to matters on the pitch as Lasswade face Stirling County
Thursday, 14-Feb-2008Despite disqualifications and controversy surrounding the Scottish Hydro Electric Cup this week, it is back to action on Saturday with the majority of the fourth round ties taking place.
It is the first chance lower league clubs have had this season to compete against top flight sides and National League Division Three side Lasswade will take on Stirling County, who have been a major force in Scottish Rugby for years are coached by ex-internationalist Ian Jardine, at Hawthornden.
Other previous internationalists to have come from County include Kenny Logan who gained 70 Scottish caps. They are presently fighting for survival in Premiership Division One, but will nonetheless present Lasswade with a massive challenge.
A Lasswade spokesman said:
"The players and coaches are delighted with the draw and it will give us an opportunity to gauge how far they have come since we last played an elite side, namely Watsonians, four years ago."
Remember, for all the scores and updated tables from Saturday's matches keep coming back to the site over the weekend and on Monday morning.
If there is any news from your club please email gary@scrummagazine.com
Club international side record superb win
Tuesday, 12-Feb-2008
Scotland Club International Head Coach Ian Rankin was a happy man after Scotland's Club International side defeated their Welsh counterparts at the weekend.
The Scots' amateur side triumphed in Caerphilly 34-7 on Friday afternoon and Rankin believes it was a good team effort which sets the squad up well for the test against the Irish on Friday, February 22.
"When you bring guys together and only train three times you are not quite sure what you are going to get, but I thought the team gelled really well and played some good rugby.
"The way the guys have handled themselves and taken to their task is a credit to themselves and I am looking forward to the game in Dublin now,"Rankin told SCRUM Editor Gary Heatly after the match.
Scotland claimed the game's first points in the 24th minute with a try from back-row Angus Martyn. The Boroughmuir man took advantage of Wales' Lee Edwards being in the sin-bin to drive over after a good scrum with Skeen converting. The lead lasted just three minutes, with the host side getting a converted try of their own through centre Steve Martin and the game was tied 7-7.
The tries kept coming though and, after a great break from winger Rory Couper, his Boroughmuir team-mate Stephen Ruddick set up Teague to go in at the corner. Three minutes before the break, Skeen extended the lead to 15-7 with a successful penalty.
The visitors kept up the pressure and Martyn went close to his second try in the 54th minute. Crombie was then held up over the line moments later.
However, on the hour mark, the third try came through Snedden. It was converted by Skeen and, at 22-7, Scotland were home and dry.
In the last five minutes, Teague grabbed his second try after a chip ahead by Doug Brown and Skeen rounded things off with a try and a conversion in the last minute.
Wales Club International XV:
T Botwood
T Bonnell
S Martin
M Lewis
A
Mead
E Williams
A Davies
A Davies
G Jones
J Huntley
C James
L
Williams
L Edwards
A Packer
C Davies
Subs used
A Pettit
A Payne
K
Coulter
S Miles
G Holloway
M Thomas
G Davies.
Scotland Club International XV:
S Ruddick
M Teague
G Thomson
M
Clapperton
R Couper
A Skeen
R Snedden
B McNeil
S Crombie
J Welsh
D
Kelly
A Adam
T McVie
R Weston
A Martyn.
Subs used
P MacArthur
G
Mountford
G Dodds
G Oommen
G Cottrell
C Goudie
D Brown.
Updated cup draw
Tuesday, 12-Feb-2008Following Saturday's matches the updated draw for the fourth round of the Scottish Hydro Electric Cup looks like this. Most of these ties will be played this coming Saturday, February 16, but there are some round three ties also still to be played.
We will keep you updated on all the cup news on this site.
Ross High v Cartha Queens ParkForrester FP v Aberdeen GSFP
Gordonians v Musselburgh
Marr v Dunfermline
RHC v Haddington
Cambuslang v Kelso
Strathclyde Police or Glasgow Academicals v Heriot's
Lasswade v Stirling County
Glasgow University v Berwick
Moray v Hawick
Hawick YM v West of Scotland
Garnock v Selkirk
Newton Stewart or (Lanark or Millbrae) v Watsonians
Kilmarnock v Melrose
Hawick Linden or Langholm v Glasgow Hawks
Ardrossan Academicals v Ayr
Aberdeenshire v Dundee HSFP
Irvine v Livingston
Murrayfield Wanderers v Gala
Kinross or Glenrothes v Currie
Broughton FP v Glasgow Hutchesons' Aloysians
Highland v Perthshire
Cumbernauld v Boroughmuir
Whitecraigs v Biggar
Hawick Harlequins or Duns v Hamilton
Crieff & Strathearn or Banff v Stewart's Melville FP
East Kilbride v Peebles
Caithness or Howe of Fife v Edinburgh Academicals
Falkirk or Grangemouth v Hillhead/Jordanhill
Dumfries v Ellon
Annan v Jed-Forest
Morgan Academy FP v Kirkcaldy
Cup sparks into life as Broughton beat Linlithgow
Tuesday, 12-Feb-2008Broughton set up a fourth round tie cup tie with GHA this Saturday with a win over Linlithgow at the weekend.
The victory by the Edinburgh based Scottish Hydro Electric East League Division One side over the team from National League could be seen as a shock. Here is how it was reported on the club's own website;
Broughton's pack had the power to defeat their National Two opponents Linlithgow at Wardie on Saturday in the Round Three clash of the Scottish Hydro Electric Cup.
The 24-13 final score sets up a Round Four fixture against Premiership 1 relegation candidates Glasgow Hutchesons Aloysians at Wardie next Saturday as the Road to Murrayfield continues!
The morning kick-off appeared to catch Broughton still asleep and when Linlithgow scored a 2nd minute penalty, the visitors looked as if they would use the Wardie slope to their advantage.
The home side didn't lie down however and a great run by McFarlane on 12 minutes took Broughton to the opponents 22 but Arrandale couldn't control the ball at the back of the maul.
Failure to convert chances haunted Broughton further as Linlithgow stretched their lead with a try in the corner. A Broughton clearance was charged down and quick hands from the visitors saw their winger run in for a score. 0-8.
On the half-hour mark though, a lifeline for the Wardie men. Pannell opened up the defence with a penetrating run and as he released Gladwin, the replacement winger was bundled into touch just short of the line.
Linlithgow found it hard to get out of their 22 and a Broughton driving maul forced them all the way to the try-line but the South African referee adjudged the ball to have been held up. From the resultant scrum, a driving maul resulted in McFarlane popping up at the back to dive over for a score. Walker converted the kick. 7-8
So, at half-time, the score was like the webmaster's ears - not a lot between them.
Borughton came out of the traps in the second half keen to build on their positive finish to the opening 40 minutes.
It didn't take long then before the home side took the lead for the first time. Broughton were once again camped in the Linlithgow half and from a 'scrum 5' Arrandale pushed the ball back inside for Urquhart to dive over. Walker converted from the tight angle. 14-8.
Broughton capitalised on a Linlithgow knock-on on the hour and the hungry forward pack mauled their opponents to the 5 metre line and Walker was on hand to score. 19-8.
The National Two side, as one would expect, refused to lie down and came up the field to score a try of their own. The back line strung a few neat passes together and the 13 cut back inside for a score. 19-13.
Broughton's final try came with 13 minutes to go. Linlithgow didn't have any answers to the home maul and the pack drove over the line with the scorer still needing to be identified! Any assistance welcomed by the webmaster!
Uni's face up to challenges
Friday, 08-Feb-2008The Scottish Universities are to play three matches in the next few weeks.
They will be travelling to Belfast to play an Irish Colleges team before returning to Hawthornden, home of Lasswade, for home matches against English Students and a Combined Services team.
The first match against the Irish Colleges team, on Friday, February 22, will be a repeat of one of last season's fixtures. Scottish Universities were victorious then and head coach Chris Reekie is optimistic of a repeat.
He said:"Last year we caught them a little bit by surprise. I'm sure they'll be much more up for it this time round but we can go there and show them that there is quality rugby being played all across Scottish Universities."Reekie was also pleased with the health of Scottish University rugby. He said:
"Last year was the first year of the re-formed universities' team and we did well winning one and losing one. We've started training with the guys earlier this year and are looking to build on last year."
The Scottish students' home games will take place on March 7 and 14 with the Auld Enemy first up before the team get a chance to gain revenge on Combined Services who defeated them 12 months ago. With a number of players also playing in the Scottish Hydro Electric Premier Leagues Reekie is pleased with the strength of the squad available to him.
He added:
"With guys playing in the Premiership and maintaining a high standard, I'm excited by this squad. If the club players can deliver a high level of performance it will lift the other guys and we could do really well."
Scottish Hydro Electric National Cup 07-08
Friday, 08-Feb-2008Hawick, first winners of the Scottish Hydro Electric Cup, are facing a long trip north as the Premiership clubs enter the knockout competition at the fourth round.
The Greens will face either Moray in Elgin or Orkney in a tie due to be played next Saturday.
Holders Glasgow Hawks, meanwhile, will travel to the Borders to face either Hawick Linden or Langholm.
SCOTTISH HYDRO ELECTRIC NATIONAL CUP 2007- 2008
Fourth Round Draw
Ties to be played on Saturday 16 February 2008
Ross High or Preston Lodge FP v Cartha Queens Park
Lismore or Forrester FP v Aberdeen GSFP
Madras College FP or Gordonians v Musselburgh
Loch Lomond or Marr v Dunfermline
RHC or North Berwick v Haddington
Cambuslang v Kelso
Strathclyde Police or Glasgow Academicals v Heriot's
Lasswade v Stirling County
Allan Glen's or Glasgow University v Berwick
Moray or Orkney v Hawick
Hawick YM v West of Scotland
Garnock v Selkirk
Newton Stewart or (Lanark or Millbrae) v Watsonians
Kilmarnock v Melrose
Hawick Linden or Langholm v Glasgow Hawks
Ardrossan Academicals v Ayr
Aberdeenshire or Hillfoots/Alloa v Dundee HSFP
Irvine v Livingston
Murrayfield Wanderers v Gala
Kinross or Glenrothes v Currie
Broughton FP or Linlithgow v Glasgow Hutchesons' Aloysians
Strathmore or Highland v Perthshire
Cumbernauld v Boroughmuir
Whitecraigs v Biggar
Hawick Harlequins or Duns v Hamilton
Crieff & Strathearn or Banff v Stewart's Melville FP
East Kilbride v Peebles
Caithness or Howe of Fife v Edinburgh Academicals
Falkirk or Grangemouth v Hillhead/Jordanhill
Dumfries v Ellon
Annan v Jed-Forest
Morgan Academy FP v Kirkcaldy
SCOTTISH HYDRO ELECTRIC NATIONAL BOWL 2007- 2008
First Round Draw
Ties to be played on Saturday 16 February 2008
EAST REGION DRAW (4 ties)
RHC or North Berwick v Ross High or Preston Lodge FP
Hawick Harlequins or Duns v Hawick Linden or Langholm
Edinburgh University v Broughton FP or Linlithgow
Trinity Academicals v Lismore or Forrester FP
CALEDONIA REGION DRAW (4 ties)
Falkirk or Grangemouth v Madras College FP or Gordonians
Crieff & Strathearn or Banff v Caithness or Howe of Fife
Aberdeenshire or Hillfoots/Alloa v Moray or Orkney
Strathmore or Highland v Kinross or Glenrothes
WEST REGION DRAW (4 ties and 4 byes)
Bye - Helensburgh
Bye - Loch Lomond or Marr
Bye - Wigtownshire
Bye - Stewartry
Lenzie v Greenock Wanderers
Newton Stewart or (Lanark or Millbrae) v Dalziel
Strathendrick v Waysiders Drumpellier
Strathclyde Police or Glasgow Academicals v Allan Glen's or Glasgow
University
SCOTTISH HYDRO ELECTRIC NATIONAL PLATE 2007- 2008
Second Round Draw
Ties to be played on Saturday 16 February 2008
EAST REGION DRAW (4 ties)
Dunbar or Edinburgh BATs v Portobello FP or Penicuik
Moray House or Inverleith v Meggetland
St Boswells or Edinburgh Northern v Earlston
Liberton or Gala YM v Leith
WEST REGION DRAW (6 ties)
Oban Lorne v Moffat
Islay v Jordanhill Phoenix
Carrick or Uddingston v Paisley or GHK
Birkmyre or Isle of Arran v Clydebank
Isle of Mull or (Lanark or Millbrae) v McLaren or Bishopton
Hughenden or Strathaven v Cumnock or Clydesdale
CALEDONIA REGION DRAW (6 ties)
Harris Academy or Bannockburn v Arbroath or Peterhead
Aboyne v Stornoway or Blairgowrie HSFP
St Andrews University v Ross Sutherland or Fife Southern
Huntly v Aberdeen Wanderers
Carnoustie HSFP v Aberdeen University or Garioch
Waid Academy FP v Mackie Academy FP
Wales name squad to face Scots in Club international
Friday, 08-Feb-2008The first of the four Welsh teams who will face Scotland over the weekend will include two electricians, a bricklayer, a welder, a shop manager and a benefits clerk. And that's just the forwards.
The Welsh Clubs XV kick-off the international action at Caerphilly's Virginia Park on Friday afternoon (2.30pm) when they play their second home game since forming two years ago.
Wales Clubs XV (v Scotland Club International side, Friday, February 8,
2.30pm, Caerphilly RFC):
Thom Botwood (Blues /Llantrisant)
Thomas Bonnell
(Scarlets /Narberth)
Steve Martin (Scarlets / Narberth)
Matthew Lewis
(capt, Blues / Builth Wells)
Andrew Mead (Ospreys / Llangennech)
Emyr
Williams (Scarlets / Whitland)
Andrew Davies (Scarlets / Narberth)
Alun
Davies (Scarlets / Whitland)
Gareth Jones (Scarlets / Pembroke)
James
Huntley (Blues / Rhiwbina)
Chris James (Scarlets / Narberth)
Lee Williams
(Dragons / Newport Saracens)
Lee Edwards (Dragons / Newport Saracens)
Andrew Packer (Dragons / Newport Saracens)
Colin Davies (Scarlets /
Cardigan)
Substitutes:
Andrew Pettit (Dragons /Caerphilly)
Anthony Payne (Dragons /
Caerphilly)
Kyle Coulter (Ospreys / Bridgend Athletic)
Shaun Miles
(Scarlets / Ammanford)
Glenn Holloway (Blues / Llantrisant)
Michael Thomas
(Blues / Llantwit Fadre)
Gethin Davies (Blues / Brecon).
SCRUM Editor Gary Heatly will be at the match to make sure the March issue of the magazine has the best coverage of the memorable occasion.
Club international team named
Friday, 08-Feb-2008
Tam McVie, the experienced Heriot's flanker, will once again lead the Scotland Club International team as they break new ground by meeting their Welsh counterparts this week.
In a further boost, the Scotland Club International team are to be sponsored by Belhaven, the official beer partner of Scottish Rugby.
The Belhaven Best brand name will adorn the Scots' jerseys for Friday's match in Caerphilly and for the meeting against the Irish in Dublin later this month.
Belhaven's marketing manager, Gregor Mina, said:"Our sponsorship of Scottish Rugby kicked off when supporters were able to enjoy a pint of Belhaven Best during last weekend's international but we're also delighted to be involved with the club international team, as we're committed to helping the game's profile and growth from the grassroots too."
McVie has played in both previous club internationals against the Irish, and is one of nine players in Scottish ranks to have featured at this level before.
The Scots' coach, Ian Rankin, said:"Our team is a good mix of experience and youngsters who're making an impact in the Scottish Hydro Electric Premiership.
"Last season John Houston played in the centre for our team against the Irish and wind the clock forward to last weekend and he was in the Scotland A squad as a full-time pro with Edinburgh.
"My message to our squad is simple. There's an opportunity for you here to win in the colours of your country and there also could be a chance for some to win a full-time rugby contract."
Scotland Club International XV (v Wales Club International XV at Caerphilly
RFC, on Friday, 2.30pm):
S Ruddick (Boroughmuir)
M Teague (Heriot's)
G
Thomson (Dundee HSFP)
J Murray (Melrose)
R Couper (Boroughmuir)
A Skeen
(Watsonians)
R Snedden (Currie)
B McNeil (Heriot's, pictured)
S Crombie
(Boroughmuir)
J Welsh (GHA)
D Kelly (Ayr)
A Adam (Currie)
T McVie
(Heriot's)
R Weston (Currie)
A Martyn (Boroughmuir).
Subs:
P MacArthur
(Ayr)
G Mountford (Stirling County)
G Dodds (Melrose)
G Oommen (Dundee
HSFP)
G Cottrell (Boroughmuir)
C Goudie (Heriot's)
D Brown (Watsonians).
SCRUM Editor Gary Heatly will be at the match to make sure the March issue of the magazine has the best coverage of the memorable occasion.
Doddsy off round the world
Friday, 08-Feb-2008Grangemouth's Michael Dodd is to find his sea legs over the next couple of months after signing up to take part in a round the world yacht race.
Dodd is to take part in one of the toughest legs of the Clipper Race, a bi-annual yacht race circumnavigating the globe. At over 35,000 miles, it is the world's longest race, as well as being one of the toughest and includes a fleet of ten yachts. The leg he will be involved in races 3,500 miles across the North Pacific from Qingdao in China to Santa Cruz, USA (via Hawaii).
Dodd said:"The leg is one of the toughest due to the considerable and highly unpredictable variations in weather, as well as the distances involved. I leave China in early February and will arrive in Santa Cruz in mid-April with the rest of the "Glasgow: Scotland with Style" crew.
"As well as the personal challenge, I am doing the race to raise money for charity. My chosen charity is the Wooden Spoon Society. Please help me raise as much as I can for the youngsters that the charity helps."
You can help the fund-raising by visiting www.justgiving.com/doddsy_goes_sailing and further details of the race and his progress can be found at www.clipperroundtheworld.com
Young Scottish prospect to "bounce back" after horror tackle
Wednesday, 06-Feb-2008
Former Scotland under-21 and sevens player Cameron Johnston is on the long road to recovery after he was felled by a spear tackle that has left his long term playing career in doubt and turned his world upside down.
The tackle caused a compression of the spine and a triple fracture to the 21-year-old's eighth thoracic vertebrae, which is square in the middle of the back.
Up until the middle of January he had to wear a large metallic brace, preventing him from turning and twisting after doctors told him he was the "first person in medical history" to suffer such an injury.
The incident happened on October 27 when he was playing on the wing for North of England side Blaydon against Redruth in National League Two. In the 25th, minute Johnston was running down the wing when he received a forward pass. The referee stopped play, but the Redruth player Nathaniel Pedley carried on and tackled him illegally.
Pedley was sent off and subsequently received a 26 week ban, but that is of little consolation to Johnston.
The former Bell Lawrie Scottish Schools under-18 Cup winner with Merchiston Castle told The SCRUM: "It was the single most painful thing that has ever happened to me, I knew as I hit the deck something was wrong. I just did not know how severe. It puts a lot of things into perspective and re-evaluating your life at 21 is not what you want to be doing. What plans and direction I had have been blown apart.
"I have gone from training twice a day, working and attending university to nothing. I have had to put my degree on hold as I was at my mums in Scotland for the past three months and the most mundane tasks became a challenge. I will bounce back and view everything as an opportunity."
However, there is a 15% chance the bone in Johnston's back could collapse within the next six to 12 months causing paralysis and he is just taking each day at a time, benefiting from the expert medical attention and advice he has been given by Blaydon's Dr Orritt, physio Nick Williams and his surgeon Jamie McLean.
"I have to say the people involved have been outstanding, on the medical side [Dr Orritt and Williams] saved my life on the day, and were superb during the three weeks I was in hospital. There has been a lot of sympathy and apathy from the rugby community, through calls, letters, emails and visits.
"Everyone feeling the same way towards the tackle and the outcome, and I totally agree that there has to be stricter rules to stamp this out of rugby before someone's life gets ruined worse than mine," Johnston, who won the Melrose Sevens with Newcastle Falcons in 2006, added.
This story appears in February's issue of the magazine. To get a copy ask at your local club or the school you attend or mail gary@scrummagazine.com to have one sent to you.
To make sure you do not miss out on future issues you can also subscribe free here.
McKee stars for Hong Kong
Wednesday, 06-Feb-2008
Former Watsonians player Mike McKee is gearing up for the upcoming Asian Five Nations tournament with a spring in his step after he helped Hong Kong defeat Chinese Taipei in two test matches.
In the first test McKee, pictured, who played for the George Watson's College school and Watsonians before moving to Hong Kong last summer, made his debut at full-back at the King's Park Sports Ground in a 64-17 win.
A few days later, Hong Kong won the second test 52-27 and McKee told The SCRUM:
"Personally I think I had a solid debut, nothing too flash, just did the basics right and I've hopefully done enough to put my hand up for the two test series against Tunisia and then the inaugural Asian Five Nations [in April and May].
The competition in the squad is great, everyone enjoys a bit of competition and with being such a close unit we are aiming to be the best in Asia."
If selected, McKee could be joined in the Five Nations squad by ex-Heriot's man Jonny Elliot who has also been training with the national squad since he moved there last year. Coach Jonny Walters, a New Zealander, may also be a familiar name to some readers having turned out for Boroughmuir.
This story appears in February's issue of the magazine. To get a copy ask at your local club or the school you attend or mail gary@scrummagazine.com to have one sent to you.
To make sure you do not miss out on future issues you can also subscribe here
Ladies causing a stir at Morgan
Wednesday, 06-Feb-2008
Over 30 players have regularly been turning up for training with the Morgan Academy FPs ladies section of late, making it a great success as it was only set up six months ago.
The idea of a ladies section in the Dundee area was the brainchild of Ally MacDonald. She had been playing at Howe of Fife, but poor numbers meant regular fixtures were not fulfilled.
Along with a group of other players she put up posters around local gyms looking for likeminded people and she was enthused when Morgan approached her.
"They saw a ladies section as the next piece in the club's progression and since we held our first session in the summer the response from players in the local area has been tremendous.
"We have had around 35 at training with a mix of experienced players and people new to the sport. It has been really encouraging and I must say the members of Morgan have been great to us," MacDonald said.
The ladies have regularly been playing in National Development League events this season and, which is open to all teams who are not competing in either the SWRU Premier or National Leagues and a series of events are organised at the home clubs of participating teams. With their large numbers Morgan are looking to apply for promotion to the National Leagues for 2008/09.
This story appears in February's issue of the magazine. To get a copy ask at your local club or the school you attend or mail gary@scrummagazine.com to have one sent to you.
To make sure you do not miss out on future issues you can also subscribe here
Rugby Roundup
Sunday, 03-Feb-2008In Premier 2 Jed-Forest's brilliant home form continued with a sixth straight home win at Riverside Park against Biggar by 26-13, and in doing so gave their border neighbours Selkirk a five point lead over Biggar with promotion back to the big time in their own hands now with three games to play. It was Jed's 11th win in the league and with their draw to Biggar last year as well it's been a successful season for them despite the huge injury problems.
They thoroughly deserved to win this match, out-scoring Biggar three tries to two. In the other match played in that league Kelso did the double at Haddington, winning 16-14 to all but secure their place in Premier 2 next season.
The one game in Premier 1 was a local derby which went the way of Melrose 19-13 but Hawick's last second penalty from Craig Neish gave them a valuable bonus point which could prove vital at the end of the season. For Melrose it lifted them up to third place.
In Premier 3 Gala's win at Dunfermline 26-15 was a mighty boost for them. It was always a potential banana skin and with just two games to play they know that a bonus point win at Irvine in March when the league resumes (which is more than likely) will give them promotion and set up a final push for the championship against Ellon at home on the last day of the season. Peebles enjoyed a 57-0 win at The Gytes against Irvine and with two home games against bottom club Murrayfield Wanderers and 10th team Livingston, the points difference could well be the key factor as they too aim for the championship.
Kirkcaldy, who didn't play today, have two home matches left but against Perthshire and Dunfermline. It's difficult to see how they can catch the two Border clubs now as both Gala and Peebles are unlikely to lose focus against much weaker opposition.
In the S.H.E. Cup Round 3 the only shock came in the West Section with National League 3 side Whitecraigs knocking out NL1 team Greenock Wanderers 15-0.