North Berwick vs Stewartry Match Report

After 2 weeks of postponed matches NB travelled to Dumfries and Galloway to take on Stewartry in game 6 of the National 4 league. Both sides have had a similar start to the season with 3 wins under their belts. From kick off the the teams looked evenly matched with Stewartry having the majority of possession in the first 15 mins and NB demonstrating good structure in defence. However, a couple of infringements at the breakdown gave the home side the chance to take the lead, which they took with 2 penalties. 6-0 Stewartry. The NB break through game on 30 mins when the first sustained period pf possession saw the ball moved quickly on the blind side, with Nick Hart breaking the line, drawing the defender and allowing Rohan Chapman to find space. Tackled by the full back the ball was recycled quickly and moved to the other touchline wher ean inside step by Alex Mckay saw him touch down. The try was unconverted 6-6 Stewartry. There was no further scoring in the 1st half with both teams matching each other in defence. It was Stewartry that broke the NB in the second half with a multi phase play that was finished with a short crash ball try on 48 mins. The try was converted 13-5. NB responded on 65 mins with a period of sustained pressure and a tap penalty in the 22 saw the ball moved quickly into space and Toby Arnold go over for a well deserved try.13-10 to Stewartry. The game was in the balance until the last 10 mins but NB struggled to gain territory with missed kicks to touch. Stewartry gain confidence and two late tries saw them finish 27-10 winners. A closer game than the final score suggests but NB mistakes proved costly but the team bonding session on the bus home was , as always, good fun. Work for NB to do as they slip into the bottom half of the table and a home game next week against Murrayfield Wanders who are a place above them in the league and where they have a point to prove in terms of regaining form.