Haddington Rugby Football Club

U16s & U15s Enjoy Home Successes

Under 16's League Match – 6/09/09

 

Haddington 17 v Preston Lodge 10

After a month of hard pre-season training under the tutelage of Rhodri and Derek, Haddington U16's got  the 2009-10 season of to a winning start with a 17-10 victory over Preston Lodge.

PL were first to score with a converted try early in the game after some strong running from their backs.  0-7

Haddington were lucky not to go further behind when PL crossed the line and only some good last ditch tackling held the ball up.

As the first half progressed Haddington started to take a bit more control and some good rucking and running produced a try for Douglas McLean far out on the left. The conversion was missed.  Half time 5-7.

Into the 2nd half and Haddington gave away a series of penalties and although they couldn't cross the line Preston Lodge were successful with a penalty kick to take the score to 5-10.

Haddington again lifted the pace and after a kick through by Finlay Baird, Colin Grannum was first to the ball hacking it on into the 22 where he picked up beautifully off his toes and ran over to score. Again unconverted. 10-10.

Just as the game was looking like being a draw, PL were awarded a penalty in the middle of the park, which was taken quickly and driven into the Haddington 22. Some good rucking from the Haddington players saw turnover ball moved out to Kyle Munro who ran past the Preston Lodge defence to score under the posts. Successfully converted by Keir Duffy, this was the last play of the game.

 

 

 

Under 15’s League Match – 6/09/09

Haddington 38 v Portobello 33

New coach, Stuart Cunningham gave the Midi section a double to cheer about in the U15s opening league fixture against Portobello on Sunday also.

Fielding a very young side the boys stuck manfully to their running game, which produced six well-worked tries throughout the course of the match. The first half was evenly matched with Neil Black (2) and Nick Stewart (1) scoring the tries whilst Paul McClung knocked over the three conversions to lead 21 – 19 at the break.

Three further tries were scored for the Scarlets in the second half with Neil Black notching his hat-trick, however, Portobello were never too far away and scored two tries of their own during the second period. Paul McClung converted one of the second half tries to register a solid home win.

Haddington U13 Team at Murrayfield

A Haddington U13 team (aka Knox Academy S1) represented East Lothian at the IRB Sevens tournament on the back pitches at Murrayfield on Sunday. The boys have already had an excellent season but a trip into the unknown topped things off for the young squad. They won their group matches with ease against Kirkcaldy, Maclaren and Mackie, however, due to the fairplay rules only two teams from the four groups progressed to playing on the main pitch at Murrayfield and unfortunately the squad just missed out. 

The youngsters were paraded along the track at Murrayfield as well as watching and mixing with some of the tournaments' International players to round off a memorable day for them.

Squad: P.McLung, A.Ingram, C.Erskine, J.Hamilton, G.Denholm, C.Munro, M.Robertson, N.Black, P.Fairgrieve, C.Tinch, H.Blake

 

Haddington U15s - Update May '09

Having lost 3 matches in a row to GHA , Gala and Hawick respectively, the boys got back to winning ways with home victories over Edinburgh Bats 39-28 and Dalkeith/Penicuik 25-10.

 

After the last game a lunch was organised at the Eastern Eye restaurant for players and coaches. A good time was had by all, although when Derek finds out who finished his pint while he was at the buffet, I’d imagine there’ll be a few ‘malcolms’ being handed out at pre season!

 

7's training started after the Easter holidays, only giving us a week before the first tournament at Stirling on Saturday 25th April.

This was always going to be a tough one as all the John Lewis Cup and Bowl semi finalists had been invited.

We were drawn in a difficult group beside Stirling, Perthshire and Glasgow Hawks. Having lost to Hawks in the first game we then played some good sevens to beat Perthshire but came unstuck against Stirling, who were the eventual winners beating Glasgow Hawks in the final.

We fared better at Gala Red Triangle 7s on Sunday 3rd May, losing to the hosts but  beating Forresters and Hawick on our way to a semi final defeat to Stirling.

 

The U15s did pick up some silverware by winning the Preston Lodge 10-a-side tournament on Saturday the 2^nd May.

 

Overall, the Haddington U15's have had an excellent season, reaching the semi final of the John Lewis Bowl and finishing 4th in the Edinburgh and District league.

 

As team manager I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their help and support the squad have had this year:

 

Greig Munro, Rhodri Thomas, Derek O'Roirdan and James Warren for sharing the main coaching duties throughout the season.

Jon and Norma Turvil for the excellent quality of medical cover they provide.

Chris Thomas for stepping in when Jon and Norma were busy.

Paul Currie for the match photographs.

Everyone who helps provide the after-match teas.

And finally the parents for bringing the boys to training and matches.

 

We have worked hard and had a lot of fun over the course of the season and I’m sure this ethos will carry us in good stead into next season playing as the U16s.

 

I’m delighted to announce that the coaches for next season will again be Derek O’Riordan and Rhodri Thomas who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the squad.

 

Last but not least I would like to say a huge thank-you to Scott Aldred at Randys Autos for sponsoring the strips, they'll be worn with pride again next year.

 

Keith Morton 

 

U15 Match Reports

U15 John Lewis Bowl - semi final

 

1st March 2009

GHA 19 v Haddington 17

Haddington U15's travelled through to Glasgow for their long awaited John Lewis Bowl semi final.

The long bus journey didn't seem to do them any favours as GHA ran into an early lead, scoring 3 tries and 1 conversion in the first 20 minutes of play.

Not the sort of start the boys were looking for.

At this point they seemed to suddenly come awake and after some good tackling and handling Angus Elder raced up the touchline from the half way line to score a fine try in the corner.5-19 and Haddington had started to play the good rugby they are capable of.

There was no more scoring in the first half but early into the second half and Elder managed to drive over in the corner again. Fraser Meikle converting this one from about a metre in from the touch line. An excellent kick.

Haddington now had the upper hand and 10 minutes in to the 2nd half Finlay Baird raced through to score. Unfortunately , the kick was again wide out and Meikle just failed with the conversion.17-19

At this point Haddington were the better team and constantly caused GHA problems with their rucking, driving and running. A very fast game, a bit too fast for the poor ref who strained a thigh muscle.

After receiving treatment for about 10 minutes from Norma Turvil, our travelling physio, he decided he was unable to continue.

GHA not having a replacement referee, Greig Munro stepped in to take over.

The long delay while the referee was being replaced took the sting out of the game and Haddington could not get back up to the pace they had been playing at before the stoppage.

There was no further score and the game ended with Haddington defending their line to some good attacking play from GHA.

A disappointment for Haddington, but all the squad played well and couldn't have tried harder.

Good luck to GHA in the final where they’ll play Howe of Fife.

 

 

League Match 8th March

Gala Red Triangle 47 v Haddington 5

The U15's travelled to Gala for their last away fixture of the season.
Needing a win to keep their hopes alive of topping the league Haddington were well beaten by a very well drilled and strong Gala team.
Playing into the wind in the first half Haddington were unable to stop Gala taking 22-0 lead with 4 tries and 1 conversion.
Despite some good tackling and rucking  from the Haddington boys Gala used the wind to full advantage.
Into the 2nd half and with wind advantage Haddington quickly scored a try. From a tap penalty the ball was moved out to No 8 Tommy Spinks who forced his way over in the corner. The conversion was missed but hopes were raised that a come back was possible.
Unfortunately this was not to be and due to some missed tackles on counter attacking players, Gala proceeded to run in 4 more tries, one converted ,and a penalty.
This is a very good Gala team,as proved by their unbeaten record in the league.
A presentation  of the Edinburgh and District U15 League Trophy was made to Gala Red Triangle in the clubhouse after the match by Doddie Weir.
Congratulations to Gala.
For Haddington U15's there are 3 more league fixtures left and all must be won if they wish to hold on to 3rd place.

 

 

     

 

 

U15s Match Report v Currie

                 Currie 7 v Haddington 39

U15 League Match 1/02/2009

 

Another good victory for the U15 squad.

Haddington started well and scored first through a penalty by Fraser Meikle before a try by centre, Angus Elder increased the lead.

Currie replied with a converted try to bring the score back to 7-8.

Some bizarre refereeing decisions failed to knock the Haddington spirit and after some excellent defensive work the best of the Haddington tries was scored.

Colin Grannum, normally a 2nd row but playing at prop today, ran fully 70 metres to score under the posts. His run included side steps, hand offs and some good hard running for an excellent individual try for a modern-day forward. Fraser converted and at half time the score was now 15-7 in Haddington’s favour.

Into the 2nd half and Haddington started to dominate. Four more tries were scored, by Sam Thomas, Angus Elder, Arron McColl and Murray West .Two of which were converted by Fraser Meikle.

 

This was a tougher game than the score suggests, the boys had to work very hard for this victory under difficult circumstances.

Well done again to all concerned, players, coaches, Dr Jon and all the parents for their continued support.

 

 

U15 Match Reports and Photos

League v Musselburgh 11/01/2009

Haddington 57 v Musselburgh 5

Haddington U15s continued their winning run and gained revenge on Musselburgh for the heavy Cup defeat earlier in the season. In a game played in blustery conditions Haddington showed the level of improvement gained by hard work on the training ground.
Playing at the school and uphill against the wind, Haddington managed to score 3 tries to 1 in the first half. Moving the ball quickly from the contact point and passing well played a major factor throughout.
With the wind in their favour second half, Haddington ran in 6 more tries after the turnaround.
The game was played at a very fast pace and despite the scoreline it was well into the game before Haddington started to dominate.
All credit to the Musselburgh players and coaches for their good attitude throughout the game.
A very enjoyable match for the Haddington supporters, who had turned up in great numbers to watch this local derby.

Try scorers: Jonathon Nikora 5, Finlay Baird 2, Arron McCall 1, Douglas McLean 1.Fraser Miekle converted 6 of the 9 tries scored.
An excellent all round team performance from the U15 squad.

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John Lewis Bowl Quarter Final

Berwick 10 v Haddington 24

Haddington met Berwick for the 2nd time this season in a knock out competition and managed another good win.
This was an excellent rugby match to watch, with Berwick attacking the Haddington line from the start,using their big forwards to drive at the Haddington defence.
Some good tackling,one in particular from full back Andy Lund on Berwicks 17st(allegedly) prop, kept them at bay. Haddington slowly began to get their backs into the game and after a penalty award in the Berwick 22, a quick tap penalty led to a try for Finlay Baird.
Berwick then had a share of control and equalised with an unconverted try.
Haddington again took the lead with some excellent quick rucking and moving the ball wide for Sam Thomas to dive over in the corner.
Berwick were not a team to give up though and again equalised before half time.
After the break Haddington had the wind slightly in their favour and were moving the ball well from the contact area, where they began to dominate. An excellent running angle from Jonathon Nikora led to a try near the posts which Fraser Meikle converted.
The Berwick team were still in this game and it took some hard tackling to contain them. With 10 mins to go another penalty award in the 22 was taken smartly by Sam Thomas and Tommy Spinks barged over to score. Fraser Meikle again converted.
Another very good performance from the U15 squad with all 18 players playing a big part in this victory.

     

Haddington U15s Report

League Match    
14/12/08                         Linlithgow 7 v Haddington 21

In a very hard encounter against Linlithgow, Haddington U15's managed a good win away from home.
The forwards stood up to the larger Linlithgow pack and managed to win enough ball to allow the backs to run in 3 excellent tries. The first was by Jonny Nikora from quick recycled ball after a break of 50 metres by, prop for the day, Sam Thomas who was stopped just short of the line. Good support allowed the ball to be moved along the backs quickly, which created space for Naka to cross near the posts. Conversion by Fraser Meikle.
Linlithgow came back in to the match when good driving from their forwards forced a try before half time.

Haddingtons 2nd try was scored by Angus Elder after some good work from the forwards and some quick handling gave him space to break from 30 metres out and score under the posts. Again converted by Fraser Meikle.
Linlithgow then started to press hard for the next score and only resolute defence from Haddington held them at bay.
With 5 mins to play Finlay Baird found a gap in the Linlithgow defence and broke from 20 metres to score under the posts and another conversion from Fraser Meikle made the game safe.

     

Spotlight on Haddington U15s

Haddington U15s have been going quietly about their business over recent weeks with a fair amount of success in the process. Team Manager, Keith Morton, has downed his farm machinery for the moment and worked rigourously to provide the support to enable the squad, led by son, Graeme, to go from strength to strength with some outstanding performances of late. 

Aided by Youth D.O, Greig Munro, and coached by 1st XV players, Rhodri Thomas and Derek O'Riordan, the squad have responded positively with their hard work paying dividends on the pitch. Over the course of the season the U15s have attracted several new players to compliment the squad that had been built up from last year's Knox Academy school team. A big thanks go to all the parents that assist the U15s throughout the season as well.

Reports and Pictures

John Lewis Bowl v Linlithgow 26/9/08

Haddington 25-Linlithgow 12

Haddington U15s won a hard fought match in round 1 of the John Lewis Bowl. A weakened Haddington team having been knocked out of the John Lewis Cup by a strong and well drilled Musselburgh side 69-0 in September the boys continue to improve and took their chances well in this game . Tries from Douglas Mclean, Angus Elder ,Finlay Baird and Dylan Russell were enough to see off the challenge from Linlithgow.

      League V Boroughmuir

Boroughmuir 46-Haddington 0

In a tough game at Meggatland Haddington were well beaten by a very well drilled Boroughmuir side. The boys played their best and never gave up the fight, but Boroughmuir were just too good a team with some excellent individual players.

      Friendly V Biggar 23/11/08

Biggar 7- Haddington 62

In a friendly match, to keep them match fit, Haddington proved too strong  for Biggar U15s. On a cold day at Biggar showground, Haddington ran the ball well and scored freely.

      John Lewis Bowl v Currie 7/12/08

Haddington 59-Currie 12

On a lovely sunny, but cold Sunday, Haddington beat a weakened Currie side in a match postponed from the previous week due to frost..The boys played some great rugby, with good handling and driving play in the rucks, evidence of the work that Rhodri Thomas, Derek O'Roirdan and Greig Munro have been putting in to carry the boys forward .

Tries from Douglas Mclean, Jonny Nakora(2), Kyle Munro, Graeme Morton, Arron McCal, Angus Elder ,Sam Thomas and Jordan Currie.

6 of these converted by Fraser Meikle and 1 by Angus Elder.

U15 Result

Haddington U15s continued their strong start to the season with a fine win against Murrayfield Wanderers on Sunday by 47 - 17.

       

U15s Triumph

Haddington U15s won their preliminary round match in the John Lewis Cup by defeating a Berwick side 37 - 24. Haddington tried to play an expansive game throughout and always looked to have an edge over their opponents in open play, ensuring a safe passage into the next round. Up front Kyle Munro led the way with 4 tries, whilst centres, Aaron McCall (2 tries) and Jordan Currie (1 try)regularly caused panic with ball in hand and deservedly scored their tries. Fraser Meikle managed only one conversion today with no easy kicks at goal.

U16 & U15 Results

The Haddington U16s and U15s travelled to Lasswade last Sunday to kick start their league campaign.

Lasswade U16s had already conceded the league points by having to field U18 players in their team, but the U16s were keen to see some action after all their pre season training, and were led by new Coach's, Davie and John (the Mitchell brother's). The U16s were leading at half time time before succumbing to Lasswade 24 - 20 in the second period. Kyle Munro with two tries, Connor Tulloch and David Ryan scored the tries that gave the team an encouraging start to the new season.

The U15s won their match 47 - 19 and looked comfortable throughout with winger Aaron McColl a constant threat with ball in hand as he snatched three tries. Jordan Currie(2), Douglas MacLean and Sam Thomas got the other touchdowns with stand-off, Fraser Meikle kicking an impressive 6 conversions. 

KNOX APPEAL

This appeal is going well with Davie and Carrie Ferguson already pledging £200 towards the costs. Please dont forget to support the school, we are still £400 short at present.

Knox Academy Sports Co-ordinator, Rory Couper, has issued an appeal to try and raise funds which would allow Knox Academy to purchase their own set of strips for Cup matches etc. for the coming season.

The Club are always keen to support the High School, therefore, if anyone can donate money towards the cause, please contact Les Hamilton on 07809 574510 or email:leshamilton7@googlemail.com at your earliest convenience. The expected cost of the strips would be £600.

A Difficult Season

Haddington Rugby Club Under 15's has finished their season strongly with a 33 - 22 win over a touring team from Hartlepool. The season has been a difficult one for them with improving performances coupled with some mixed bag results in the league proving a testing time for the players, however, every week without fail, some 20 boys turn up to training, even during the winter, ensuring there is no shortage of commitment and desire.

The boys will be looking forward to the last tournament of the season on Friday afternoon, where they play in a 7's competition before taking a well-earned rest prior to pre season beginning and new challenges lying ahead in the Under 16 Edinburgh League next season. A big thank-you to Coach, Greig Munro, and Team Manager, Ewan Scott, as well as all parents and helpers who have contributed over the season.

Haddington U16s win Melrose Sevens

The Haddington U16s continue to impress this season after collecting the Drummond Cup at the Melrose Sevens on Sunday 27th April.

On the way they defeated Selkirk 19-10, Glenalmond School 24-19, Langholm 40-0 and North Berwick in the final 49-0.

An excellent performance by this young seven's squad who now take part in the Gala Sevens on Sunday 4th May and the Glasgow Sevens on the 10th May, where they will be representing the Edinburgh area along with Boroughmuir, who they defeated on their way to winning the Ross High Sevens earlier in the month.

Kevin Bowen, the U16's coach is extremely proud of the whole squad of boys who he has seen develop over the last two years.

Squad: Ronnie Spink, Kris Patterson, Cal Davies,James Ferguson, Euan Smith, Euan Bowen,Fraser Taig, Kyle Adams, Rory Dyer, Ben Laing, Jack Hepburn and Jamie Meikle.

U16s Wales Tour

The Haddington U16s recently returned from their Welsh tour with their heads held high having done the Club proud by competing against the top sides in Wales.

They narrowly lost their first match against Tumble, 20-15, only a desperate last try for the Welsh Club ensuring victory. The Tumble team also included several Llanelli Scarlets U16 players. Prior to their final match against Cardiff Blues, they received an inspirational team talk from Welsh Rugby legend and ex-British Lion, Phil Bennett. Although they lost to this top regional side 39-0, they actually competed extremely well. Cardiff scored 3 tries in the second half against the run of play and the final result flattered the Home side. It was an excellent challenge for the boys who were a credit to themselves and Haddington Rugby Club. The experience gained will no doubt stand them in good stead for the step-up to the Colts next season.

On the first Saturday after their return, the U16's beat Boroughmuir 24-17 in the final of the Ross High 7's. An excellent way to end a very successful season. Congratulations again to the efforts of the Coaches and Players.

U16 Triumphant

Edinburgh & District U16 Cup Final - Meadowmill

Forrester 10 v Haddington 37

Haddington U16s ensured it was a clean sweep for the Club at the weekend by lifting the Edinburgh & District Cup with a convincing win over Edinburgh rivals, Forrester on Sunday. There were several outstanding performers throughout the Scarlets team as they deservedly won an open and exciting match.

Congratulations and well done to everyone involved with the U16s.

Haddington U16 v Heriots U16 Result

Haddington U16s  24  v   Heriots U16s  3

Haddington U16s scored an emphatic victory over Heriots yesterday (Sunday 9th March) which should put them into the final  of the Edinburgh & District Cup against Forresters U16 at Meadowmill next weekend. The boys scored four tries and kicked two conversions to complete a resounding win.

Youth Results

Following on from Haddington Colts highly impressive victory over Jim Telfer's Melrose team on Saturday, the U16s carried on their fine form the following day, where they dispatched a strong Hawick side by 12 points to 3.

The U16s have been busy raising funds for their tour to Wales at the end of the season, which the boys are all thoroughly looking forward to. Seen below are the U16s in their new strips that have been sponsored by The Eagle Inn, Dunbar.

Focus on Haddington U16s

Haddington U16 rugby team are sweeping all before them this season and are currently unbeaten in their Edinburgh & District League pool. They have beaten Gala R.T., Forresters, Lasswade and Ross High on their way and face fellow title challengers Currie this Sunday(11th) at Currie, 1pm Kick Off.

Coach, Kevin Bowen, has developed a strong squad of player's that will no doubt make their mark with the senior squad in a few years time. Three players have also been selected for the Edinburgh U16 squad, Fly Half Euan Bowen, No.8 Kris Patterson and Winger Kyle Adams. Congratulations to all three on their inclusion.

The U16s have also organised a Tour to Wales in 2008 and have been raising funds accordingly. This weekend they have organised a Car Wash in Sherrifs yard tomorrow(Saturday) between 9a.m. and 1p.m., whilst next weekend they have organised a Sponsored run from Murrayfield to Neilson Park to present the Match Ball to Captain, Donald Snodgrass, prior to the 1st XV home match v Aberdeen Grammar.

Please try and support the boys in whatever way you can.

Knox Academy win Plate Final

KNOX CAPTURE BELL LAWRIE PLATE

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Kelso HS 5   v   Knox Academy 19

Haddington's, Knox Academy, one of Scotland's most prolific rugby schools, gave notice tonight that they're ready to produce another generation of talent.

At under-15 level the East Lothian school triumphed in the Bell Lawrie Scottish Schools Plate final with a victory over Kelso High at Hallhill, Dunbar.

Knox, who led 12-5 at half-time, scored two first half tries by No 8 Kris Paterson, the second of which was converted by stand-off, Euan Bowen.

His opposite number, Murray Hastie, did pull back a try for Kelso, but Bowen had the last word with his own converted try five minutes from time.

Special thanks to Kevin Bowen, Paul Pritchard, John Fleming and Eddie Pollock for their assistance throughout the season. Enjoy some of the pictures from their night to remember.

U16s Sevens Triumph at Ross High

The U16’s were invited to take part in the annual Ross High 7’s tournament and proved to have too much power and pace for their opponents scoring 116 points (including 18 tries) and conceding only 10 on their way to lifting the trophy.

In their opening match they powered past Livingston scoring 7 unanswered tries. The Haddington lads showed that they had not come along just to make up the numbers. They tackled hard and attacked from all areas of the field knocking the heart out of their opponents who looked mighty relieved when the final whistle sounded.

The next round looked like being a sterner test against a BATS side that had shown a clearly defined game plan in beating the home side in their opening tie by 33-0. The Haddington side had been warned to watch out for their “alleged” flyer but both Tom MacGill and Angus Logan left him stumbling in their wake as they scored 2 of the 4 tries which saw them safely home 26-5. This was a committed performance with everyone playing with desire and determination never allowing their opponents to settle.

The final was an eagerly awaited affair. A large crowd had gathered to watch the clash of the “Reds” – Haddington v Linlithgow. Linlithgow had received a bye in the first round and then defeated Forrester 15-0 in the semi – Forrester beating the much-fancied Musselburgh side 24-19 in their opening tie. Haddington raced into a quick lead and it became clear to the majority of the people on the touchline that there was only going to be one winner. Linlithgow’s main threat came out wide from their centre but he was never allowed space or time and this danger was snuffed out. A combination of strong defence and determined running saw the young Haddington side score 7 tries (6 converted) to run out comfortable winners 47-5      

This was a tournament won by the whole squad – everyone had game time and everyone contributed hugely throughout the day. All those involved must be congratulated on their performance. There is a strong bond amongst the boys in this age group, which augurs well for the future of the Club.

Results:   

Haddington 43	Livingston 0
Haddington 26	BATS 5
Haddington 47	Linlithgow 5

Squad: (as photograph)

Back Row (L-R) – Angus Logan; Dan Barber; Tom MacGill; Ben Thomas; Gary Hepburn

Front Row (L-R) – Dale Gordon; Fraser Bain; Rab Watt; Ruari MacKay (c); Dougy Symington; Alex Spence

Well Done

Congratulations to Sam Atkin from the Haddington U16 side who has been selected at centre for the Edinburgh U16 team to play Caledonia in the opening round of the Under 16 District Championship at Beveridge Park, Kirklcaldy on Sunday.

Another boost from the Haddington youth section and the Club was the Scotland U18s historic victory over France which included Academy players Finlay Gillies and Neil Rodger.

Youth Rugby

KNOX ACADEMY  -  RESULTS

Knox Academy Seniors 12 v Cathkin High School  22 in the quarter final of the Bell Lawrie Plate competition.

Knox Academy S1/S2 lost their match to Portobello on Saturday.

MINI SECTION  -  This Sunday (11th), the Mini section entertain Dalkeith and Lasswade at Neilson Park. Matches range from P3 up to P7, so come along and cheer the young lads on. Kick-Off 11 a.m. Refreshments including hot bacon rolls will be available for anyone looking to recover from the after affects of the day before!

U16 Matches Update  - We are waiting on Currie to firm up details for the “friendly” they requested – now looks like being at home next Sunday (18 March) – watch this space.

We are in discussion with Peebles re: “home and away” fixtures – probably now be in April – more details once dates confirmed.

Ross High 7’s Tournament Sunday 1^st April (honest) – both U14’s and U16’s have been invited. The U16’s won the U14’s tournament two years ago so will be under pressure to repeat their success this year – come along and cheer on both squads - you never know we might pull off a Haddington double.   

SCOTLAND MASCOT  -  On Saturday at Murrayfield before the Scotland v Ireland match, Haddington will be represented in the form of mascot Struan Stuart.  Struan plays for the P6 Mini section team and is truly looking forward to the experience of running out with one of his heroes. Please find below a photo of Struan so you can keep an eye out for him as the teams are lining up.

   

U16 Match Report

U16’s Qualify For National Play Offs

Haddington U16 12 v Lasswade U16 10

There was a strong wind blowing down Neilson Park (no surprise there) on Sunday when the U16’s took on their old foes from Lasswade – the previous results between these teams being a 10-5 Haddington victory and a 0-0 draw. The stakes were high as the winners of this match would finish the league in second place and join Heriots in the national play offs.

It was clear that both teams were in the correct frame of mind for the match and it started at a frantic pace. The home side were playing with the wind at their backs and were keeping the ball in hand looking for an opening. Following a period of pressure Dan Barber, who was the pick of the home forwards on the day, scampered over in the left hand corner. The kick across the strong wind failed. Haddington could smell blood and went in search of further scores. Two glorious opportunities to extend their lead were wasted when with adrenalin pumping through their systems wrong options were taken when it actually looked easier to score. With the strong wind in their faces Lasswade were forced into running from deep trying to release their dangerous looking winger at every opportunity but the Haddington pressure and midfield tackling was so intense that you could count on one hand the amount of times the visitors managed to cross the halfway line. Unfortunately the score board was not to move again before half time.

Half Time: Haddington 5 v Lasswade 0

Lasswade’s game plan for the second half soon became apparent – kick the ball into the bottom corner and rumble it up through the forwards. This ploy had an immediate result as they drove over to level the score. The home side continued to move the ball at every opportunity but too many dropped balls in the strengthening wind enabled Lasswade to relieve the pressure. The vociferous visiting support was given a further opportunity to show themselves when, following a period of concerted pressure, the home line was again crossed. This set back galvanised the Haddington youngsters to greater endeavour. Strong, determined, running by the backs started to open up holes in the visiting defence but with time running out the home support was becoming a little nervous. They need not have worried – “Jock” MacKay’s pass released Arron Douglas into the gap on half way and he took off leaving a string of would be tacklers in his wake to touch down under the posts. The Haddington support erupted and then nervously watched as Dale Gordon prepared to take the conversion. The ball flew straight between the uprights to give the home team a slim 2 point lead. Haddington almost scored from the restart but they were stopped inches short in the corner. The final whistle followed and the supporters could at last relax and celebrate a hard fought victory.

Final Score: Haddington 12 v Lasswade 10

In this game the boys showed a determination and never say die attitude which was way above their young years. They will need to continue this attitude in the play offs when they encounter the “best of the rest” from the Borders, Glasgow and Caledonia

U16 Player wins award

Ruari Wins East Lothian U16 “Players Player”

Haddington and East Lothian U16 captain Ruari MacKay was presented with the “Scott Murray Shield” by the 6ft. 6in. Scotland International at Murrayfield on Tuesday (28 November). The trophy was the brainchild of East Lothian Development Officer Graham Shiel who also arranged the special presentation. The successful East Lothian U16 squad all voted for their “Players Player” following the recent cup winning Edinburgh Pathway Programme.

At Murrayfield Ruari watched an Edinburgh training session and was then introduced to the Edinburgh and Scotland players before receiving the award. Several of the top stars, including, Phil Godman, Duncan Hodge, Hugo Southwell, Chris Paterson and new recruit John Senio, the Samoan scrum half, all took time out to personally congratulate Ruari on his achievement.

East Lothian Representatives

Four players from the Haddington U16 team who had a successful summer with the East Lothian Falcons have gained selection for the next step up. Sam Atkin, Ruari MacKay, Patrick McKinnon and Robert Watt have been selected to join the Edinburgh U16 Integrated camp which will be held at Murrayfield during the October school holidays. A squad of 51 players has been selected after the recent U16 Edinburgh Pathway Development Programme and Edinburgh U16 Schools Trial. A further seven Falcons players have been selected which is testament to the rugby being played and coached at East Lothian's schools and rugby clubs. Their success is also due to the continued dedicated efforts of East Lothian's Rugby Development Officer, Graham Shiel. The players will be under the watchful eye of coaches Mark Burgess and Kevin Brown, and will be asked to promote themselves over the two days of practice and games. Ongoing reviews and selections will continue throughout the programme which culminates with a final Squad of 26 players selected for the National U16 Inter District Championship and cross border fixtures in April 2007.