Marr Rugby Club in cup crashout

Dec 26 2008

MARR crashed out of the Scottish Hydro Electric Cup despite a brave first-half performance at home to Whitecraigs who are top of the league above.

The teams were locked 12-12 at the break but Whitecraigs ran in 24 unanswered points in the second-half to book a glamour tie against Peebles.

Marr were missing player-coach Kevin Pattie, full-back Andrew Gault and captain Robbie Lockie who is still sidelined with a back injury.

Rory McGee put in a cross field kick which was pounced upon by fullback Andrew Watson who skipped past one defender and barged over the line to give Marr an early 5-0 lead. But the visitors quickly replied with a well rehearsed tap penalty.

Marr went back in front when McGee made a break and moved the ball out of contact to Watson who evaded a couple of tackles before being brought down just short of the line. However, he popped the ball to winger Ali Walker who touched down in the corner. McGee converted.

The lead was shortlived as Whitecraigs added another try in the last few minutes to tie the scores at half time.

After the interval, Whitecraigs pulled well clear but Marr went close on several occasions with second row Kris Kirk making a good break, side stepping a defender and bursting his way into the opposition twenty-two before being brought down. McGee made the break of the half when he danced round his opposite number and evaded capture until he was brought down just short of the line.

The Marr pack was also in the ascendancy and dominated the pack from the higher league for much of the second half.

This was a much better performance from Marr and if they take this form into the second half of the season improved results are sure to follow. If they can tighten up their defence in the New Year, they will cause a lot of teams problems.

Training continues over the festive period at Fullarton Park on Monday at 7pm. On Saturday, Marr will hold the Stuart Black Memorial competition.