Orkney 24 Highland 31
On Sunday the Orkney under 16 team played Highland in the first round of the Caledonian Cup. A hard game was expected as Highland play in the Presidents Conference the top age group competition in Scotland. Playing on the centre pitch at Picky conditions underfoot where good but the wind had increased during the morning blowing the length of the pitch, the home team playing the first half against the wind.
Orkney started the second half playing with the wind hoping to use it to their advantage, Keith Dearness soon brought this about with a well taken try bringing the scores level. The half continued with both teams threatening the try line but being repulsed with strong tackling defence. Eventually Highland broke the deadlock with two tries one being converted.
The home side fought hard to save the game resulting in Connor Hancock scoring another try his conversion attempt just missing. The final whistle came with no further score leaving Highland with a 31-24 victory.
The Orkney team while disappointed with the result could be proud of the performance against a team playing in a higher league. Thanks are due to Stewart Spence for his referees duties carried out in a very competent manner. Not being a great advocate of the Man of the Match Award on this occasion it was a very easy decision as Connor Hancock put in an amazing shift, it is hard to believe that he has another season at this age group.
Squad, Murray Simpson, Ronan Gray, Rhys Davies, Keith Dearness, Ewan Casely, Josh Rendall, Connor Hancock, Gregor Macleod, Andrew Mulraine, Scott Stevenson, Glen Scott, Jack Marwick, Jamie Clouston, Glen Brough, Ryan Mooney, William Omand, Kieron Morrison and Jak Craigie.