Rugby: McLaren's gritty draw

Dec 14 2012 by Rob Jones, Stirling Observer

Carrick 16 McLaren 16

McLaren showed their fighting spirit and came away from Burns Country with a creditable draw, taking up where they left off two weeks ago when they beat Cumbernauld 36-10.

McLaren forced the home side into desperate measures in defence, inevitably conceding a penalty in front of their own posts. Brooks slotted the kick over with ease.

He added another as McLaren dominated the game in the first quarter.

Carrick eventually woke up and scored a try in the corner with their first meaningful attack which was successfully converted, giving them a slender one point lead.

McLaren’s cause wasn’t helped when flanker McKillion was sin binned for foul play.

McLaren’s response was both swift and fruitful.

They swept up the field from the re-start and aggressive rucking by the forwards was rewarded with a try, hooker Duncan diving over on the corner. Brooks successfully converted giving McLaren a 13-7 half-time lead.

The visitors failed to take advantage of the wind at their backs in the second half.

Courtesy of some soft penalties Carrick got back into the game and harvested nine points.

In reply McLaren scored another penalty to secure the draw and a share of the points.

Centre Graham was the second McLaren player to incur the referee’s displeasure, sin binned for a high tackle.