If the weather was a dreich affair, the rugby on offer was the opposite. Cumnock’s P7s
welcomed old friends Strathaven RFC to Broomfield with the intention of letting their skills
shine even if the sun did not.
As the game got underway it was clear that the ’Nock’s recent training sessions were paying
off. Cumnock showed much improved strength and determination in the ruck, pouncing on
any loose balls and securing possession at the breakdown. With Finn, Ross, Jacob and Rhino
putting a shift in tackling anything that moved and Lewis swinging from one tackle straight
onto another, the Cougars’ forwards pressurised Strathaven. Stonewall defence in the backs
with Dan and Thomas to the fore repeled the visitors at every restart. Fast accurate passing
and good communication between the Cougars’ backs allowed the ‘Nock’s flyers to take off
for the line. Most impressive were the Cougars’ team tries. Of note was the second half try
which came from Sandy’s jinking break tying up 4 defenders as he passed to Cameron in
support who’s perfectly timed pass allowed him to draw the defence and set up Tyler Tyler
to turn on the gas beat the remaining defenders and touch down for a hat trick. With TJ and
Dan the Man scything through gaps in the Strathaven line, the Cougars secured an emphatic
win. Thanks to the ‘Nock boys who kindly played for Strathaven to even numbers and a big
congratulations to Lucca making his first start for the Cougars. Tries from Dan McKinlay (4),
Tyler Wilson (3), TJ Graham (3), Lewis Young (1) and Jacob Robertson (1). Final score:
Cumnock 12 – Strathaven 1.
Next Sunday is an away fixture at the Cartha tournament. The squad is always looking for
any new recruits keen to give rugby a try.
Squad: Dan McKinlay, TJ Graham, Tyler Wilson, Lewis Young, Jacob and Thomas Robertson,
TJ Robertson, Sandy Hay, Liam Cunningham, Gavin Kirkland, Cameron Kerr, Harry Biggans,
Ross Lindsay, Finn Hewitt, Lucca Antonucci.