Cumbernauld Rugby Club get season under way

The pre-match warm-up took place in warm and clear conditions, with both sides expecting a good running game on a firm pitch. Unfortunately, with the vagaries of the Scottish summer, these plans were quickly re-assessed, as no sooner had the game kicked-off than the rain started and the wind helped to drive it across the pitch. All of a sudden, it had become an “up the jumper” game.

Despite the conditions, it was a close contest though-out, with the visitors going into the half time with a one try lead. In the second half, the weather showed no signs of letting up, and with the ground becoming saturated, the game became very start-stop as the error count increased. A late try for Lenzie sealed the result, and their progression into round two. Both teams will be happy to get a decent game under their belts before the start of the league season this weekend.

Cumbernauld under 15s also kicked off competitive season at the weekend, with the first tie of the League Cup competition. They found themselves on the wrong end of ten tries to two result against a strong Hamilton team. Hamilton are looking a good team, and will be expecting to challenge for both league and cup this season, but Cumbernauld will be disappointed with some of the soft tries they conceded. They’re needing a bit more aggression at the breakdown, and to concentrate fully for 70 minutes.

The under 14 team were also in action at the weekend at the annual Trojan Tournament at Waysiders in Coatbridge. For ten of the 13 boys who played, this was their first game on a full size rugby pitch, whilst for five of them, it was their first rugby game ever.

Despite the size differences, and the lack of experience, Cumbernauld showed that they can compete on the bigger pitch. With a little more experience and training they will turn their raw talent and enthusiasm into decent team. The player of the tournament award went to young McAllister, the Cumbernauld full-back who has just stepped up from mini rugby – some absolutely stunning tackles against players twice his size that had the crowd applauding in admiration.

Both the under 14 and under 15 teams are looking to add players to their squads for the coming season. Call Paul for further details on 07960 811326.

A busy fixture card again this weekend, with the 1st XV in action against last year’s league runners-up, Strathendrick, whilst the 2nd XV have a home fixture against Uddingston. And on Sunday the under 15s have a home game against Clydebank, whilst the mini section visit Loch Lomond.