U16s Progress to National Cup Semi Final

North Berwick U16s progress to the National Cup semi final next week after a hard fought win against Deeside RFC. The game was switched to Dunbar due to the waterlogged pitch at North Berwick. The rain stopped before kickoff and although conditions were heavy the Dunbar pitch was in good nick.
Within a minute, North Berwick were reduced to 14 men when the referee yellow carded Jeffries after he was adjudged to have obstructed a 2nd penalty taken quickly. However the lads stuck to the game plan and got through the penalty period without losing any scores. North Berwick were seeing most of the ball but could not break through the Deeside defence until Slater opened the scoring from a penalty in front of the posts. The ‘home’ team continued to press for the remainder of the half but could not extend the lead. Half Time North Berwick 3, Deeside 0.
The second half started as the first half ended with the North Berwick forwards winning plenty of ball. The lead was extended after Carmichael pinched a lineout and the quall was moved quickly out to the wing where Salisbury scored out wide. North Berwick went further ahead mid way through the half when Sanderson charged down a defensive kick and gathered to score with Slater adding the conversion. Deeside then upped their game, got some of their big backs moving ,and forced a score through the normally secure NB centres. Deeside pushed hard for the next score and as the legs began to tire, both teams made mistakes that should have resulted in scores. Deeside had the final say after their forwards drove over. Despite their rally, it was too late for the Deesiders as the ref blew for full time.
Final Score North Berwick 15 – 14 Deeside.
The game was played in excellent spirit by both teams and we wish Deeside well in their Bowl match next weekend. For North Berwick, we now face Stirling County in the National Cup semi final on Sunday 10th at Recreation Park. Thank also to Dunbar RFC for the use of their pitch and facilities.