Doonies triumph in early season contest

Internal Rugby Match Report: Picky 23-11-13

The Doonies proved too much for the Uppies running out comfortable 7 tries to 5 winners. However, neither side was for giving up bragging rights this early in the festive season! 

The Uppies actually started the stronger of the two sides, running in a couple of early scores - the first following a superb off load from Gary Farquhar. But as the half wore on even the unbiased referee, Gary Coltherd, had to penalise the Uppies for consistently slowing down possession, and lying all over the ball. 

As a consequence the Doonie possession statistic started to increase and gaps started opening up around the pitch - Ali Linklater and Gary Nicolson making the most of the wide open spaces. 

The second half saw Steven Bruce take the whistle. It also saw the arrival of William Thomson to take control of proceedings, and his influence was a crucial factor, and not even Gary Coltherd's manifestation to the Uppie cause could stem the flow. 

Some other notable performances: Paul Johnston ran hard and tackled well; Jamie Firth showed excellent handling skills taking the ball off his shoe laces several times. The game itself was played in good spirits, with some hard hitting, good natured personal rivalries interspersed with some comical errors! Its what internal rugby is all about. 

Nearly full sides - well 25 players in total, and not a bad game to watch - despite the cold! A couple of new guys on the day: Karl Simpson from Longhope, and George Mosomi from Kenya, currently studying at Herriot Watt in Stromness. Still a long season ahead - surely get full sides sometime? 

This Saturday, 30 November sees Westray take on all comers, in Westray. The ferry leaves from the Kirkwall pier at 07:20, so players are asked to meet at the terminal at 07:00. KO will be around noon; returning back to Kirkwall at 19:20 the same night. If you are interested in taking part please contact Erik Knight 07881 505765 asap.