Cumnock s1 at Birkmyre

Report by Billy Ramsay

Heavy rain and strong wind greeted the players at the start of the match which was played on a very muddy pitch. The game started at 100mph with both teams giving their all to try and get the upper hand on their opponents. The deadlock was broken after 10 minutes when Birkmyre finally crossed the Cumnock line to score a fine try wide out on Cumnock’s left wing. At the end of the first 15 minute period Birkmyre scored again to turn around 2 tries to the good. The standard of rugby was very high given the terrible conditions and the only difference between the teams was that Birkmyre were winning more ball at the breakdowns with some excellent rucking.
Cumnock’s players were giving their all and some great performances were being put in especially from captain Wallace Findlay, Scott Grierson and Jamie Drummond in the forwards. The midfield of the team in the shape of Adam Watt, Robb Drummond, Andy Houston and Owen Young were again outstanding. The rest of the back line of Kieran Murray, Evan Smith and Ross Marr also deserve a mention for their defence against bigger and faster opponents.
The 2nd period started with the play following a similar pattern to the first and Birkmyre managed to extend their lead after some excellent recycling of the ball. Cumnock then showed some great spirit to turn the game round and the remaining 10min of the period belonged to Cumnock. Their hard work was rewarded when the human wrecking ball that is Jamie Drummond barged his way over Birkmyre’s line from close range.
The final period was played in deteriorating conditions with the close nature of the contest continuing. The hosts managed one more try to give a final score of 4 tries to 1 in their favour. Coach, referee, bus driver and all round good guy Alan Montgomerie said he was proud of all the boys after the game and that the only difference between the team was the quality of Birkmyre’s rucking game. Alan has given the team a target of beating Birkmyre when they play again in February of next year.