Published: Thursday, 21st February, 2008 09:30
Burgh boys are still on cup trail
By David Christie
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Strathaven U15 19 - Helensburgh U15 41
BURGH ran out comfortable winners in matchday three of their cup conquest.
The side, who recently wrapped up the Division Two league title, started its pursuit of the cup with a disappointing home defeat to the strong Division One side West of Scotland.
But a good win against a physically larger Paisley side has bolstered hopes of qualifying in second spot.
To finish behind West, the team will have to hold off the challenge from Cartha, Greenock and Paisley.
But first they had to deal with an away trip to Strathaven — which they did in style.
Strathaven, like Helensburgh a small club based around local players — provided a hospitable and friendly atmosphere not to mention one of the most sloped pitches ever seen.
This meant the toss of the coin was all important, with downhill advantage up for grabs.
Burgh, again hit by call offs due to holidays, groundings and orthodontic repairs, had no reserves and were grateful to Hamish, playing for the town for the first time.
Despite a shortage of possession, Burgh quickly broke their back line with an interception by stand off Simmons playing with increased confidence and Hamish’s quick thinking added a second and Fullwood with pace a third.
To the travelling support, it was beginning to look like a certain win but Burgh was in for a shock. Failing to retain possession and with too many errors, Burgh allowed Strathaven to power back.
They levelled the match at 19-19, using the second half downhill advantage but Burgh dug in, and used the platform of the line out — set up from Simmons’ boot — to retain yards.
The scrum worked harder and even drove their opponents uphill. Pick up and drive linking forward play by Costin, Hughes. Young, Higgins and Campbell piled on the pressure and as the half progressed, Strathaven were limited to a scrambling defence.
Kicks from defence were promptly gathered by Singh or Latham and pressure restored, in all a very solid performance with the whole team demonstrating not only fitness but a strong determination to win.
HELENSBURGH U15s: B Young, S Richardson, P Farran, J McKelvie, T Hughes, D Campbell, C Costin, C Higgins, Hamish, S Simmons, K Fullwood, A Latham, R McFarlane, D Singh, D Fleming.
Burgh’s next match is at home to rivals Greenock. New players aged 14 are welcome to come along to training and get involved.
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