U18s lose to Perthshire

Jan 14 2009 by Jean Pedder, Stirling Observer Wednesday

A 20-15 home loss to Perthshire in the Caledonia league is perhaps not the best way to start the New Year, but Stirling County Under 18’s will have learned some lessons for the future.

With the bulk of the first team backs recruited for the 2nds and with a number of players on the injury illness list, it was a rather threadbare squad that lined up against a Perthshire side that was substantially bolstered by the recruitment of players from the Strathallan school side. County coaches were keen to expose some of the younger players progressing from the Under 16’s of last season, to the rigours of Under 18 competition and this match certainly was a challenge in more ways than one.

The absolutely appalling conditions with a cross-field wind and driving rain, had a significant influence as the match progressed with the big Perthshire pack coming to the fore in the later stages after County had produced some slick rugby early on.

The opening period saw both territorial and possession balance in the young County sides favour. An early penalty gave County the lead before some sustained pressure and patient control saw Fynn Russell, who started brightly in the 10 position, make a break from quick ball to score under the posts. Mark Marchbank converting to take extend the lead to 10-0. As the conditions worsened and Perthshire began to use the weighty forwards, continuity in the County twenty-two saw a breakthrough to score and this was quickly followed up with a penalty to match the score at half-time.

The second half was going to be influenced by which team adapted to the continually deteriorating conditions best. County came under increasing pressure and on too many occasions were guilty of attempting to play their way out of trouble. A Perthshire penalty saw them take the lead for the first time mid-way through the half and it was clear that the match was in the balance. County responded with twelve minutes to go when sustained possession near the Perthshire line was again rewarded with centre Euan Laverty showing good strength to cross the line.

The last period of the match saw County struggle to clear their lines and inevitably the power of the Perth pack told as they drove over close to the posts with four minutes to go. The conversion required County to score a converted try to win and despite some pressure on the visitors line in the last few minutes the break was denied.

Both sides should be congratulated in producing an interesting game under appalling conditions and the young County squad will reflect on some positive elements with a high number of turnovers in their favour but also the need to simply kick the ball clear in such conditions.

The County Under 18’s are still seeking a friendly match for this weekend in preparation for the National Youth Cup Semi-final against GHA to be played on January 24 at Bridgehaugh.