Tennent's National One

MARR RUGBY 40

HAMILTON RFC 21

INSPIRED Marr Rugby 1st XV closed the first half of their season with an important bonus-point win against a strong and improving Hamilton side.

Despite enjoying good periods of possession and pressure, and dominance in the set piece scrum, throughout the match Marr repeatedly were frustrated by a determined defensive effort as Hamilton tackled like demons. In addition they posed a real threat on counterattack. Hamilton opened the scoring when after five minutes Gregor Brodie intercepted a Marr pass and ran in from 35 metres. Marr responded by upping the pressure and earned a series of penalties close to Hamilton’s line. They opted for scrums as Hamilton were repeatedly penalised and eventually from one of these spread the ball wide for Andrew Mill (sponsored by James Kenneth) to score in the corner.

Marr eventually took the lead on the half hour when Calvin Henderson burst through from close range. Hamilton kept fighting and just before half-time they were rewarded with a second converted try to regain the lead.

In the second half Marr got off to a flying start and immediately pressured Hamilton close to their line. Winning a series of penalties they opted again for close range scrums and after repeated infringements were awarded a penalty try. Five minutes later, Scott Bickerstaff claimed the bonus point try as he made a powerful burst through the defence from close range. Marr continued to exert pressure and ten minutes later Ben Johnston extended the lead with try five. As Marr cruised into overdrive Hamilton never surrendered and continued to offer determined defence to stop Marr adding to their score.

As the match drew to a close Hamilton got a consolation score but the final say went to Marr as Angus Johnston crossed the line for a converted try.

Marr Rugby 1st XV man of the match – Angus Johnston

Tennent’s Reserve National League One

BOROUGHMUIR RFC 36

MARR RUGBY 26

MEANWHILE at Meggetland the 2s once again gave Boroughmuir a tough challenge and were unlucky to have their efforts rewarded only by atry bonus. The 2s travelled understrength and survived a yellow card without too much punishment.

Marr Rugby 2nd XV man of the match – Findlay Hazel (sponsored by The Jade Dragon)

Marr Rugby 2nd XV scorers

Tries: Mac McInnes; Fraser Grant; Curran McMillan and Findlay Hazel

Conversions: Rudi Marshall (3)

Marr Rugby next fixtures – Saturday November 10 (12.30pm ko#s)

1s Away v Cartha

3s Home v GHK 2s