North Berwick 14 - 14 Leith

Match Report by Kev Greenan

Leith were on their travels again with a much anticipated return game at North Berwick, the only side to defeat us so far this season. Availability issues made for several changes but this would not deter the squad as they travelled through on a typically Scottish winter's day. The pitch, subject to a morning inspection from our hosts would reflect heavily on how the game was played. Leith had the wind at their back in the first half and were looking to take advantage of this pinning North Berwick in to their 22 frequently, and from the first of several scrum wins against the head, our hosts infringed and we decided to go for the posts. Ross Johnston was successful 0-3. Both teams tried to play attacking rugby but it was definitely not a game for the backs. Leith were awarded another penalty advantage and kept the ball alive through the forwards. Johnston saw an opportunity and put in a cross field kick which unfortunately neither Dannfald or Bowman were able to capitalise knocking the ball forward - but the ref came back to the original penalty. Johnston was successful again with the boot. 0-6 half time.

Coach Greenan was forced to make a change at half time switching McAteer with Drummond, the Ulsterman battling valiantly despite being up half the previous night sick. NB scored the first try of the game 5 mins in to the second half. 7-6 to the hosts. This gave them a lift putting pressure on the Leith defence. With the try line begging to be crossed Leith held NB up over the try line Five meter scrum to NB. Leith were thena warded a penalty 30 metres out and regained the lead with Johnston calmly slotting a difficult kick in the conditions for a 9-7 lead. Leith showed their dominance again at the scrum driving NB back and turning over the ball. Pressure was relieved by Johnston kick to touch. Leith continued to control the game at the contact. This finally gave an opportunity for Guesford to play a quick pass to Johnston he shipped the ball on for Bowman to run in for Leith’s first try. 7-14.

NB were not finished they again made a break in to Leith’s 22. But great defence was keeping them at bay. Unfortunately Campey decided to knock the ball out the scrum half’s hand at the ruck, which resulted in a yellow card. NB decided to tap and go resulting in their second try. 14-14. This was to be the last of the scoring for the day. Leith picked and went for several minutes near the North Berwick try line, and after several thwarted attempts to get over the line, North Berwick cleared their lines. Shortly after, and perhaps to the relief of both sides, the referee blew for time, and all players and spectators raced for cover and the warmth of the showers/bar. Final score 14-14. MOTM Paul Haggon. The draw keeps Leith at the top of the league.