HELENSBURGH Rugby Club’s under-15s had a tough day against a well-drilled Ayr outfit in the Scottish Cup on Sunday – though the final score of 55-26 in the visitors’ favour wasn’t a reflection of the game.

Depleted numbers meant Helensburgh were only able to field 13 players, and in conditions that were not conducive to running rugby they gave a fine account of themselves, not losing heart and hitting back with four well worked tries.

A brace for Ewan McCartney, and one apiece for Harry Kemp and Alex Brown meant Helensburgh were right in the mix until the final ten minutes when tired and aching limbs succumbed to some positive attacking from Ayr and allowed the visitors to put the tie to bed and add some gloss to the result.

Finishing the game with only 12 outfield Helensburgh players, there were plenty of positives to take from the defeat.

Each player gave everything they had and there was a marked improvement in rucking, tackling and accountability.

READ MORE: Hard-fought cup tie success for Helensburgh RFC's under-16s

A club spokesman said: “Training is on a Wednesday evening from 6-7pm and we would welcome new players. Rugby is a game for all – whatever your shape and size, you will find a position that suits you. Come along, you might just find you like it.”

Helensburgh’s under-14s also came up short in their latest development fixture, but here, too, the future looks bright.

Coach Iain MacKay said: “There is lots of potential and a great many things to be proud of.

“Again a few more numbers joining the squad would be welcome.”

 

Sadly the weather has already put paid to youth rugby action in Helensburgh this weekend, with the Greens' under-18 and under-14 fixtures both falling victim to the wintry conditions.

At the time this article was published, Helensburgh's under-16s were still due to travel to Glasgow on Sunday, February 20 to face Cartha Queen's Park.

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