Match Report | Caledonia Blues v Edinburgh 17-3-24

On Sunday 17th March 2024, Michael Scarth and Ronan Hamilton made the long trip down from Orkney to Galashiels to represent Caledonia in the U16 development pathway vs Edinburgh.

Both Orkney players started the game - Michael with a first outing at Loosehead Prop, and Ronan at inside centre. Conditions were greasy after morning rain with early handling errors from both sides.

Michael settled in very well in the front row with solid scrummaging, not giving an inch to the Edinburgh pack. Ronan, who plays 10 for Orkney, found his feet in the centre, combining well with the Caley outhalf to get ball through the hands and out to the wings where good ground was made.

Caley made the stronger start with more possession and territory, with the pressure forcing Edinburgh into a defensive error, leading to Caley's first try 8 minutes in. 5-0 Caley. Edinburgh dug deep to eventually find a way through a solid Caley defence and even the scoreline 5-5 just before half time.

After a short rest on the bench for both lads in the middle of the game, Michael returned to LH while Ronan moved to his favoured outhalf role. Both had solid shifts again, with the excellent Orkney U16 coaching they receive back home evident in their tackling, rucking and strong ball carrying.

The second half saw both teams getting used to the wet conditions and creating more scoring opportunities. Edinburgh went 5-10 up early on only for Caley bounce back minutes later with a converted try - 12-10.

Another try followed for Caley minutes later to make it 17-10. Edinburgh then enjoyed a 15 min period of dominance, scoring two tries, one converted to take the lead at 17-22 with 5 mins remaining. Here Michael and Ronan really shone, with excellent carries from Michael to break down the Edinburgh defence, and some excellent quick flat passing from Ronan at stand off contributing to Caley getting over the line with minutes to go.

Caley's conversion made it 24-22. From the reset Caley held possession really well to close out the game with Caley taking the win.

An outstanding performance from both boys who did everything they could to put themselves in contention for continued inclusion in the Caley setup.

Huge thanks from Michael and Ronan to all the U16 Orkney coaches for the massive commitment they put in for all the U16 lads. The boys will be in action again this weekend for Orkney in the plate final vs Strathmore on Sunday 24th March.

M.H.