Internal Rugby Match Report | Bunfighters v Barrow-muir 7-10-23

Internal Rugby
Pickaquoy, Saturday 7 October 2023
Bunfighters 45, Barrow-muir 10

In weather conditions the first XV could only have dreamed of, the Jono Heal coached “Bunfighters” took on a Barrow-Muir team coached by Murray Simpson and Bruce Pinkerton.

Photos: Orkney Photographic

There was another decent crowd in attendance for this latest internal match, highlighting the added interest in the local game that the Westray Bull has managed to generate over the past year.

The match began as a fairly even contest, with both teams working through phases before either being turned over or losing control, Bunfighters grew into the game quicker than their opponents though and made their territory tell with Connor Craw barrelling over from close range, Ryan Mooney found his previously missing kicking boots to make the conversion.

Bunfighters were soon in the Barrow-Muir 22 again, this time, the experienced Davie Hamilton powered through some would-be tacklers to make the score 12 – 0.

Not long before half time, Tom Gordon (a surprise addition to the team sheets) made his way through the defence to score under the posts, Kyle Robb took over the kicking duties for the Bunfighters to make it a 19 – 0 at the half.

A referee change at half time, Jo Inkster taking over from the experienced Ian Rushbrook, didn’t lead to a change in fortunes for the Barrow-Muir team.
Ryan Mooney going over for an unconverted try. Barrow-Muir eventually made their good play pay, with celebrity chef Gary Nicolson getting outside his man to run in untouched.

With the wind in their sails, Barrow-Muir set about marching up the pitch again, only for Jack Paterson, who had been threatening all day, finally managing to make an interception stick and run in under the posts from 40 yards, giving Mooney an easy conversion.

Sensing his try scoring lead might be in danger, Ryan Silver found a gap in the defence to get over the try-line to reduce the deficit. Bunfighters hit back shortly after, extending their lead with Calvin Slater going over in the corner and Mooney nailing the touchline conversion.

The final score went the way of the Bunfighters, Connor Craw swallow diving over the line after a strong run up the touchline, Mooney again adding the conversion to give a final score of 45 – 10.

Bunfighters MOTM: Jack Paterson
Barrow-Muir MOTM: David Leisk

Next internal game is Saturday 14th October in Stronsay, get in touch with Erland Drever if you’ve been inspired and want to get involved.

B.P.