MARR Rugby’s three senior sides had mixed fortunes as they tried to build on last week’s good results.

The 1st XV’s third visit to the Borders saw them travel to Netherdale for the first time ever so it was a big step into the unknown. Marr’s attacking options received a boost with Scott Bickerstaff returning from injury but also a setback as the influential Richard Dalgleish was ruled out through injury.

After several good performances with the 2s Kris Kirk was given a starting place in the second row. Gala benefited from the return of several key players and availability of their dual registered Premiership player Euan Dods (Watsonians).

Tennent's National League One

GALA RFC 31

MARR RUGBY 17

MARR got off to a perfect start as Conor Bickerstaff opened the scoring within a minute as he scythed through Gala’s defence to score from 50 metres.

Gala responded by tightening their defence and retaining possession as they started a clawback that earned a penalty followed by an unconverted try to hold the lead as the first quarter ended. Marr were made to work hard for possession and were frustrated by strong defensive play and some less than perfect execution of important passes. On a rare occasion where quick ball made it to the wing Marr showed their attacking potential as Scott Bickerstaff created space to score in the corner. As the first half drew to a close Gala retook the lead from a close range scum as Euan Dods executed a perfect number eight pick up and drive through the defence.

The second half was one where Marr continued to be frustrated by determined defence from the home side who soaked up a huge amount of pressure and took their opportunities of counter attacks well. This kept the scoreboard ticking over as they added a further penalty and try. In the closing ten minutes Marr finally made a breach as Scott Bickerstaff added his second try of the day. As Marr tried to force a final score their attacks became more frenetic. In a final minute play they tried to play out of deep defence but lost possession to allow Gala the final say with their bonus point try.

Marr were left to rue missed chances and the need for consistency of improvement and execution of chances.

Marr Rugby 1st XV man of the match: Conor Bickerstaff (sponsored by CCL Logistics)

Scorers

Tries: Conor Bickerstaff and Scott Bickerstaff (2)

Conversion: Liam McLoughlin

Tennent’s National Reserve League 1

HAMILTON RFC 40

MARR RUGBY 17

Marr Rugby’s 2nd XV were unable to build on last week’s win as they travelled to play Hamilton. The first half was relatively evenly balanced but the home side pulled away in the second to create a lead that Marr couldn’t match.

Tennent's West Reserve League One

MARR RUGBY 57

KILMARNOCK 3

THE only real cheer of the weekend was Marr Rugby’s 3rd XV’s home win in the local derby against Kilmarnock’s 2nd XV rattling in nine tries along the way.

Marr Rugby next fixtures, November 3

1s – Home v Hamilton

2s – Away v Boroughmuir

3s – Away v Dalziel 2s