Annual General Meeting

Annual General Meeting

Wednesday 30th May 2012

8.00 PM at Hartree Mill

Notice is given of the above annual meeting to which all members are invited. With the development work on the Clubhouse and pitches about to commence this will be an excellent opportunity for the membership to be appraised of the work being done.

While the majority of the present committee have indicated thei willingness to stand again for re-election it should be pointed out that, with the exception of the post of President which is a two year term, all other positions on the committee are eligible for nomination and election at the meeting. If you feel you, or someone you know, would be willing to work for the benefit of the Club why not get your name put forward at the AGM and help to take the Club forward.

Field Convenor

After several years of dedicated work as our Field Convenor first by assisting the legendary Bob Finnie and then reversing the roles when he took charge, Jock Muir has advised the committee that he would like to step down from the role at the end of the season.

Consequently, we are on the lookout for a new Field Convenor and would like to have the post filled before the end of the season to ensure that a smooth transition can be made.

Do you know someone who could help? might you be that someone?

If so please contact any committee member and we would be pleased to discuss the post and fill you in with the details.

Biggar Minis Home Page

Biggar RFC has a well established Mini Section which has been running for over 20 years.

New Image Team (Primary 1 to Primary 3).  This enables the players to be introduced to the game.  Supervised at all times, the children work together in broadly similar age groups, learning to run and pass and play touch rugby which helps prepare them for the transition to tackling and contact rugby from Primary 4 onwards.  New Image players are not involved in matches with other Clubs and training takes place on Sundays, 11.00-12.15pm at Biggar RFC.

Primary 4 to Primary 7:

Biggar Midis Home Page

Biggar RFC Midi section caters for those of high school age. We currently have teams in S1, S2, Under 15 and Under 16 age categories, as well as an Under 16 girls team. The gradual incorporation of full rugby union rules over the different age grades makes Midi rugby the perfect stepping stone for progression onto under 18s rugby and then to the senior game. All midi rugby teams train on a Wednesday night at the club at 6.45pm. 

Biggar RFC pitch and clubhouse re-development

Drainage and clubhouse alterations
Visitors to Hartree Mill cannot fail to notice the works being carried out to the pitches and clubhouse. The first two lateral drains are now in place on the training area with the whole of the 1st and 2nd XV pitches to be treated in the same manner.
The clubhouse development will be underway soon with the extension to dressing rooms the main thrust. After the groundworks and foundations and concrete base have been completed the membership – via volunteers – will erect the timber frame. Please keep an eye out for texts, e-mails and requests for your support for this project. The funding allows for work in kind to be counted towards the final costings and so the support of all is essential if the project is to be completed successfully and within budget. Bearing in mind that this was also the case in 1989/90 when the clubhouse itself was built - largely by the members - this latest project should not be beyond the membership today.

Foundations have now been cast for the new extension

Drainage pipes installed in pitch no 1

Biggar Minis at Peebles

On Sunday the Mini section visited near neighbours Peebles for their last main tournament of the season. Although the weather was more February than May the rain stayed away and all the players enjoyed the day.
The P4s took thirteen players to Peebles with a rotating 3 playing for a Borders Babarian team and therefore everyone getting lots of playing time. The Biggar team played fast running rugby scoring 21 tries in 3 games. Biggar lost their first two games to Gala and Langholm by7-4 and 7-5 respectively winning their last game against the Border Babarians 12 - 4. Good play was seen by all players and tries were shared between Murray, Grieg, Andrew, Emma, Callum, and Archie with the biggest cheer going of for Kier getting his first try for the team in the last game.
Biggar P5s played very well against Langholm and were unlucky to loose six to five, the team showed some fantastic passing skills. The P5s stood up well against Jedburgh who were a fast 'jinky' team in the end losing 5 -1. The tournament ended with a well deserved win eight - five against the hosts, Peebles. Coaches were impressed with some great attacking play, using space and clever passing but still not enough first tackles putting opposition down and sometimes too quick to throw ball away out of the tackle. Lastly it was great to welcome Geraldine back, she has been greatly missed by the P5 Team, Coaches and Parents alike. Tries From Isaac (4), Cameron (5), and Harry (5)
The P6 team got off to a disappointing start with a poor performance against a talented Gala side, going down 10-0. After some stern words from the coaches Biggar produced a more committed display against Jedburgh. Although Biggar went down 5-1, the scoreline flattered the opposition. Biggar had an equal share of possession and matched Jed in the contact area, however, they only had Drew Brewster's try to show for their efforts at the final whistle. In the final game against hosts Peebles, Biggar continued where they left off against Jed. This time Biggar converted their control of possession into tries, with Drew Brewster scoring a well deserved "hat trick" with some powerful runs and Angus Urquhart diving over "Chris Ashton style", to round off a fine team performance and a 4-1 victory.
The Biggar P7s started off with a tough game against Jedforest and having found themselves 1:0 down until later in the second half it was a skilful and determined piece of play that gave Samuel Grieve the chance to battle over the line to make the final score 1:1.
In the second game against Gala saw the opposition playing very well and this team of big lads were not going to let the ball out of their arms. The final score was a loss of 0:6
Our third game saw us meet Peebles in the semi-final, both teams having come second in their group.
This was a well-fought and exciting match with a 1:1 score in the first half. Final time score was 3:1 to Biggar thanks to a great game with all the Biggar players putting in 110% to finish third in the Tournament.
Try scorers were Mathew Stewart, Nial Ball and another for Samuel Grieve to make our last game of the season and as a mini team a very memorable one.
With the tournaments finished the minis P4 - P6 travel to Moffat next Sunday for a friendly end of season game. Good luck to the P7s as they move up to S1 rugby next year.
Hope everybody enjoys the summer break.

Golden Oldies and Biggar RFC Club Dinner

On Saturday an intrepid bunch of 13 Over-35’s travelled to Perth for a Golden Oldies tournament with 4 sides in attendance. Despite a first game defeat Biggar and guest players from Penicuik quickly improved and managed to give a good account of themselves.
This weekend the same group journey to St Andrews and Madras RFC for the Scottish Golden Oldies festival. It is expected that there will be a full XV and more in attendance although perhaps not all those who ‘volunteered’ on Saturday evening at the Club dinner will remember or want to be reminded of their inclusion!

Meanwhile back at Hartree Mill the club hosted it’s Annual dinner on Saturday evening. Despite the attractions of Ayr Show and the Bain/Cunningham concert a respectable 60+ members and friends were present. This included several of the club’s founder members several of whom have yet to miss this annual extravaganza!
President Doug Ward presided over the evening with Bob Drife proposing Grace, old club friend Doug Telfer, Davy Reive and guest speaker John McKelvey providing some excellent entertainment. Very good though the other speakers were, John McKelvey was an absolute stand out with 45 minutes of rapid fire stories and jokes. Vice President Peter McDonald proposed a vote of thanks which included the top table, Carolyn Cairns and her team and Jim Arthur for the meal and bar.

Biggar seniors v Bracknell

Straight after the U-15 game a Senior Biggar XV, made up of players from the 1sts to the Colts took on touring side Bracknell. The tourists were less fresh than the U-15’s from Orrell had been and had also lost their first game, this to Leith Accies.
Biggar opened strongly and scored first. They never relinquished the lead and ended up 22-10 victors. A grand run about on a Sunday afternoon and for several of the Biggar lads some much-needed practice for the forthcoming Over-35’s tournaments at Perth (12th May) and St Andrews (19th May)! Any other interested parties should speak to GY asap to confirm their attendance.

Biggar Minis at Stirling and Currie

Minis
For the last Sunday of April the minis sent teams to both Stirling and Currie Tournaments.
The P3s started their match experience by taking two teams to the Stirling P3 tournament - the Biggar Jaguars and Biggar Panthers.
Biggar Jaguars played 4 games. Although they lost all their games, they improved a lot during the day and did well considering that more than half of them were P2. They didn't score in the first game, scored one try in the second and two tries in the third and fourth games. They seemed to have enjoyed the experience.

Biggar Panthers played 5 games and as with the Jaguars improved steadily throughout, as confidence grew the tries started to come and they finished on a high with a resounding win against a strong Helensburgh side.
The improvement seen in the P3s (ably assisted by a good number of P2s) this weekend gives us a lot to look forward to for the rest of the season.
The rest of the Minis visited Currie for what was by far the coldest Tournament of the year.
The P4s did very well with lots of good running and supporting play and real progress from recent the tournaments with more players getting a chance to run and score tries. In the first game they lost 6 - 3 to Stewarts Melville. The next game was even closer with tries being exchanged the last try though was scored by Boroughmuir and Biggar lost 5 - 4. We think the cold got to them in the final game and they lost 12 - 2 to the home team.
Tries came from Andrew (3) Murray (3) Grieg (2) Callum Y (1)

The P5s opened against a very strong Stewarts Melville side that left them standing beating Biggar 13 - 0. In the second game Boroughmuir were, again a formidable side, and although Biggar showed better passing and tackling they were out-paced, and Biggar were denied 3 trys for being off side. Biggar were close but just not close enough!
The P5s final match was against Currie, a match that that should have been won but the P5s suffered by only having 7 tired players available and lost 7 - 5. Biggar showed controlled passing, some great tackling and scored worthy trys.
Trys came from Euan Barr (1) Hector (4) and Isaac (1)
Biggar P6s got off to an encouraging start in the first few minutes of their opening match with Stewart's Melville exchanging a try apiece. Thereafter the Biggar team missed a series of crucial tackles and allowed their opposition too much space in open areas. An 11-1 defeat was all they deserved for a lacklustre performance. In game 2 Boroughmuir were the opponents; despite an improved effort, missed tackles and lack of width going forward resulted in a 7-2 defeat. In the final match against hosts Currie, the Biggar team did increase their tackle count but lost out in contact against a more physical side trailing 5-1 at half time. An early second half try from Biggar sparked the team into their best performance of the day; well timed tackles, control of the rucks, plenty of support play and expansive rugby hauled the score back to a respectable 8-7 defeat. Coaches and parents were left wondering why this couldn't be replicated earlier in the tournament.
The P7 team today played exceptionally well and the coaches and parents were extremely proud of them.
Despite loosing all three games, the standard of Rugby today was fantastic and a pleasure to watch.
After a significant loss to Stewarts Melville 10 - 0 in the first game a serious coaching session took place to go over a couple of main problems. What a difference in the games against Boroughmuir and Currie where in both we only just lost out with 3 - 2 final scores in both.
Great rugby and great fun were had by all the Biggar boys and girls.

S1’s and S2’s at Dalziel Festival

The Dalziel festival is in its 22nd year and continues to be an excellent event. Biggar have had several successes over the years and this year was no exception with the S1 side recording a well-deserved first place after wins over Hamilton (2-1), Cambuslang (6-0) and Dalziel (4-0). Aside from the obvious delight in winning, the side conceded just one try in the three games. The boys were all really focused throughout and all-in-all this was a quite fantastic way to end the season for this very promising group of players.  As always there were some encouraging performances from, among others Jordan Gray, Shawn Cottam and twins Aaron and Marcus Dobbie.
The S2 side meanwhile, although reliant on the assistance of players from other teams as they were short-handed, earned a very worthy second place.
These results came after the boys had played as an S1/2 combine on Friday at the Dalziel schools festival. The side came second in their pool and this earned them a game against Hamilton College who they defeated to take 3rd spot.

Biggar RFC news on 23rd April 2012

Biggar U-15’s 12 East Kilbride U-15’s 56
This was a big disappointment for the Biggar outfit who had hopes of competing with their EK visitors.
Out-gunned in the loose where EK’s mobile and strong runners took some stopping, and with far too many tackles missed it was another hard shift for the Biggar lads.
There were several positives on an individual basis – Simon Denholm again played well at stand off and Liam McCarry demonstrated again what an elusive runner he is, thoroughly deserving his brace of tries – but there was little collectiveness in the sides play.
Denholm kicked the solitary conversion.
This Sunday Orrell RFC from the North of England are the visitors in what will be Biggar’s last XV-a-side match for this season.

Biggar 1st VII at Hawick.
The senior VII made one of only a couple of Sevens appearances this season when they travelled to Hawick for the Hawick Games.
Drawn against Falkirk – side Biggar thrashed in the league game in February – Biggar found their side much strengthened and too strong going down by 22-10.

Colts VII
The Colts travelled to the Borders as well, their destination Gala.
The youngsters had a great day, playing some really good rugby to fight through the competition and to earn a semi-final place against Hawick. This proved to be one game too far however and they lost out.

Club News
Over 35’s/Golden Oldies May
GY is still looking for names of all those who wish to dust down their boots for some Golden Oldie action in May. There are 2 weekends of games – Perth on Saturday 12th May and Madras on Saturday 19th May.

Hartreemill Development – April deadline looms
It’s still not too late if you would like to contribute to the development Fund which will rubber stamp the scheduled clubhouse and pitch developments for this summer. Life memberships, 10-year memberships, straightforward donations…..all are available – please speak to any committee
member.

This weekend
Saturday
1st VII at Peebles. 1st round tie v Peebles

Sunday
Mini and New Image training
U-15’s v Orrell KO tbc

Colts Dinner and Awards

The Annual Colts Dinner and Player Awards were held at the Cubhouse on Friday evening (20th April). A good meal and speeches were the order of the night before the awards were made.

The Player of the Year was Robbie Swann.

There was a tie for Player's Player of the year between Andrew Fleming and Danny McGinn.

U-16’s reach National Bowl semi final

Click on the Midi News page for a brief report and some pictures of the Bowl quarter final played at Moray RFC on Sunday.

Biggar Minis at Stirling County

Mini section at Stirling County.
Biggar Minis travelled to a sunny but chilly Stirling for their latest Tournament. This is always one of the toughest tournaments around and Biggar have always considered themselves lucky if they gain a win or two.

The P4s started brightly holding Marr to 2 - 2 at half time but losing 6 - 3 in the end. This set the tone for the next 3 games which the P4s lost 8 - 4 to Dunfermline, 8 - 3 to Stirling County and 6 - 2 to Mackie. The P4s competed well but dropped balls and missed tackles were punished by well organised opponents. Biggar’s tries came from Grieg (3), Murray (3), Callum Y (3) and new start Andrew (2). Despite these results the team are showing lots of attacking promise and passing and link up play is improving in every game.

P5’s As the results show this group didn't suffer any truly embarrassing losses and had one very comfortable win! The game against Stirling should have been won, but Biggar lost concentration and made several mistakes. Marr and Mackie had some very fast players and Biggar were often outpaced. That said the side organised a defensive line (on what was a considerably bigger pitch than they are used to), worked better as a team and had flashes of inspiration, passing the ball at pace, and clearing out rucks. There was noticeable improvements but a lack of consistency and drive at some points is undoing the good work. However as the trys show all players were keen to score, (and most did) and they made the most of opportunities presented.
Trys from
Anna x 1
Jonte x 1
Ewan S
Jack x 1
Gregor x 1
Cameron G x 1
Euan B x 7
Hector x 5
Josh
Cameron P x 1

Results
Biggar -v- Marr Lost 9-4
Biggar -v- Dunfermline Won 8-3
Biggar -v- Stirling Lost 7-5
Biggar -v- Mackie Lost 5-1

The P7s competed well but lacked bite losing 4 closely contested games to the following scores.
Currie 5 Biggar 0
Dunfermaline 3 Biggar 0
Stirling Monument 4 Biggar 0
Mackie 4 Biggar 0

Biggar RFC news for 15th April

Biggar U-15’s
Uddingston 34 Biggar 24
Having been out of action for some 3 weeks there was always likely to be a rawness about Biggar’s play. This was indeed the case as despite scoring the opening try, Uddingston managed to outscore Biggar by 6 tries to 4.
Biggar points came from Liam Black – an excellent hat-trick from the big centre – and one from Liam McCarry. James Barr kicked 2 conversions.
East Kilbride are the visitors this Sunday and it is hoped to have a full squad in attendance for this game.

Club News
Over 35’s/Goldeon Oldies May
GY is still looking for names of all those who wish to dust down their boots for some Golden Oldie action in May. There are 2 weekends of games – Perth on Saturday 12th May and Madras on Saturday 19th May.

Hartreemill Development – April deadline looms
It’s still not too late if you would like to contribute to the development Fund which will rubber stamp the scheduled clubhouse and pitch developments for this summer. Life memberships, 10-year memberships, straightforward donations…..all are available – please speak to any committee member.

This weekend
Saturday
1st VII at Hawick. Draw tbc

Sunday
Mini and New Image training
U-16’s National Youth Bowl semi-final v Boroughmuir : Hartreemill 2pm
U-15’s v East Kilbride KO tbc

Easter Camps prove a success

Calum received essential assistance from Hani Darwish who, as a former Biggar SVQ, was ideally placed to offer his experience, and Colts players Mark Bertram, Calum White, Robbie Swann and Neil Cowan. Geoff Smith of Lanark was also on hand at the P5/6 section to offer his support. There was sunshine, rain, sleet and snow to contend with all of which made the experience all the more enjoyable????

The days were very much enjoyed by all present and should provide a springboard for the Summer Camps which will follow later this year.

Golden Oldies in May

Over-35’s
The club has been invited to take part in two Over-35’s events in May. The first is at Perthshire RFC on 12th May. This is the Perth shire Golden Oldies Festival and Senior 7`s on Saturday 5th May.
This event should not be confused with the Scottish Golden Oldies Festival which this year switches from Perth to Madras, St Andrews. This is the event which Biggar has taken part in these past three seasons.
GY is keen to know which event you would like to play in – one of the other or both, come on all you Golden oldies!!!! – so please send him a text asap

Biggar RFC Development

Development
The important date of the end of April is looming and therefore a reminder to all that the scheduled development of the clubhouse and pitches is dependant on the club’s ability to raise £25,000. The initial response has been excellent and the club is confident that the total can be met, but the opportunity remains for all who wish to support the club to contribute to the fund. If you are so minded please speak to any committee member or address your correspondence to Hartreemill Clubhouse, Biggar.
The development will be the biggest and most important addition to the Hartreemill facilities since the club purchased the ground adjacent to the original Hartreemill pitches some 15 years ago. As such, the construction of new changing rooms and the alteration to the existing changing facilities will be a massive improvement on existing arrangements. This will ensure that future locally-based players and their opponents and match officials will have more much-needed and better appointed changing space.
Draining the two pitches will also mean much improved playing and training surfaces which again will benefit all who play rugby at the club.
The work is due to start next month with much of the work undertaken by club volunteer labour. Details of what and when this labour is required will be posted in the weekly press reports and, of course, on the website. Please watch this space.

Biggar High S3/4 squad win the Lanarkshire Schools Cup

Biggar Minis at Heriots

Mini News
This weekend Biggar Minis took 4 teams (P4 - P7) to the Heriot’s Tournament in Edinburgh. The day was glorious and the wet and cold of the winter season was forgotten and sun cream and plenty of liquids was the order of the day.
The P4s started with a game against Madrascals. Biggar supported well in the tackle and recycled the ball fantastically well however they found it hard to get round or through the opposition and ended up going down 8 - 2. The P4s second game was against the tournament hosts Heriot’s, and again Biggars continuity was impressive, this time the tackling was also up to scratch and the game was a joy to watch as several players had good runs and tackles. With tries coming from Murray (4), Fraser, Jonathan and Conner the game ended to soon at 8 - 8. In the final game Biggar came up against the giants from Musselburgh again and they found stopping the fast running bigger players very difficult eventually losing 8 - 2. The tournament allowed a lot of the squad to get more experience which will help them play better as a team later this year and next.
At P5 Biggar played a strong first game against Madrascals, who were a well-matched team. Biggar displayed good strong tackling and consistency throughout and broke for some really great tries. The boys seemed to have taken heed and managed to pop the ball free more often earning a well deserved 7 - 6 win.
In the second match Biggar were dominated by Heriot’s who were undeniably much faster, much more forward moving and much more together as a team. The Biggar boys moral went down quickly given their defeat against Heriot’s last week, and that combined with a back to back game in the heat, resulted in a 10 - loss.
The third game against Musselburgh also proved to be very difficult, once again the opposition were faster but the Biggar boys worked better as a team and were capable of running in a few tries. If the Biggar boys had not hung back so much they may have been able to win this one but in the end lost 9 -4. Over the day Jack, Hector, Euan, Cameron, Gregor and Harry all contributed tries.

The P6s first game was a very competitive match against Madrascals with the best team play seen from this Biggar P6 team this year. The game eventually finishing 3-2 to Madrascals. In the second game Biggar came up against a very focused home team losing 6 - 0. In the final game against Musselburgh a lot of the team work and support which has been practised in training came through with Douglas and Drew scoring tries and eventually winning 4 - 2.

Biggar U-15’s fall at Bowl final

U-15 Edinburgh Bowl final – Musselburgh.
RHC 44 Biggar 19
There is little doubt that this score flattered the Edinburgh side. Two late scores put RHC well ahead and while there is little doubt that on the day they deserved their win this was nevertheless, an excellent performance from the Biggar side.
The league game had seen RHC triumph by 31-0 (Biggar lucky to get 0), and so this was always going to be a tough encounter.
The opening exchanges were fairly even although the pace of the Edinburgh side was soon in evidence as they blitzed past the Biggar lads on a couple of occasions. The defence initially held
firm however until the overlap was too great. Biggar replied via a really well constructed score from Biggar, which saw ball well recycled before Richard Morgan ran round the RHC cover to score under the posts.
RHC came back into things with another two tries from their pacy wings before Liam Black crossed for a very well deserved try, this after the pack had ground away at the RHC line.
Half time came at 22-12 and all to play for.
The Biggar pack ran well with Mark Ewart, Andrew Orr, Gregor Stewart and Jamie Campbell in fine form but the side failed to take their chances, a period of real pressure on the RHC goal line seeing ball eventually lost in the drive. Indeed the RHC scores this half seemed all to come from Biggar errors in attack and ruthless counter attacking from the Edinburgh outfit.
With the game drifting away a little as ball failed to go to hand a lifeline came via a try created by Simon Denholm who timed his pop pass to Stuart Manock to perfection. The centre crashed over for a try converted by Stewart (his second of the day).
Biggar visibly tired in the final few minutes however and RHC took full advantage, running in two long-range efforts to take the stuffing out of the Biggar lads.
A big disappointment then but so many positives can be taken. So many of the squad are still so new to the game that they can only improve while this latest performance comes hard on the heels of a similarly very tough semi-final win last week.
The side has games against Moffat on Sunday followed by Uddingston and Orrell in April and the Gala sevens in May.

Biggar RFC U-16’s beat Waysiders

U-16’s
Biggar work hard in heat to leave opposition by the Wayside
Waysiders U16   21 Biggar U16         33
After the game against Musselburgh was postponed due to one reason or another, Biggar, with the cup match being suspended for a few more weeks, had a friendly up in North Lanarkshire. The opponents were a familiar foe: Biggar had played Waysiders earlier in the season and won emphatically but they were a strong unit and it may be different this time around with home support.
The visitors were looking to stick to winning ways but it was evident from the kick off that the hosts were going to be keeping it in the forwards. Mauling, rucking and driving constantly, gaining metre after metre. The Biggar pack were going to have to be strong and tackle well to keep the home team at bay.
Of course, Biggar had to concede an early try. It is almost a tradition now. With the Biggar backs being offside from a Waysiders line out in their own twenty two, the home team took advantage. They put the ball up their jumper, not literally, and drove to the line. The try was converted, leaving the away team trailing by seven.
After a slow start, this try shook the Biggar side, forcing them into action. They got more possession in the opposing half and got a try of their own. After good ball retention in the Waysiders half, Jardine put in a chip, which the full back caught on the bounce. On catching, he was greeted by Jardine and was shoved backwards. Panicking, the full back flung the ball, hoping it would land in the hands of a teammate. It didn't and, after it bobbled around in the hosts' in goal area for a while, a Biggar hand was put on the ball, the try scored, the conversion converted by Jardine in the absence of the ill Warnock and Biggar were level.
The game became tight but, half time looming, Biggar conceded a penalty in their own half which was kicked into their twenty two. The resultant line out was something off the training ground from the team from Coatbridge, catching Biggar off guard. The defence then couldn't withstand the battering from the Waysiders' forwards and the home team crashed over for a score. It was a tough pill for Biggar to swallow with the try coming on the brink of half time but they had to deal with a seven-point deficit instead of the scores being level.
The whistle for the second period blew and only seconds later, Waysiders were under their own posts. Biggar went straight on the attack and, after good work to keep the ball and go forward, they spun in wide for McCarry who finished well near the touchline. Jardine expertly dissected the uprights, equalling the scores once again.
The home side fought back. Biggar's indiscipline didn't help them though. They were chatting back to the ref for anything that went against them, unjust or not, and the ref was awarding Waysiders with penalties. They were putting Biggar under extreme pressure on this hot day in the West of Scotland and the visitors melted, conceding another try after another surging maul. Biggar were back to where they started the half; seven behind.
Tiredness however seemed to be creeping into the Waysiders game. Scrums were being lost against the head and missed tackles were becoming a more frequent occurrence. And the visitors took advantage. The started to control the game, creating all the chances. After McAllister broke, chipped over the defensive line and was brought down metres from the line, the visitors went wide again where Leek finished in the corner with a dramatic dive. Jardine missed the extremely tough kick and Biggar still trailed by two points.
They were now in the ascendancy though. Only one team looked like they would get the next vital try and that was the side from South Lanarkshire. After more pressure from Biggar, a clearance kick from Waysiders went straight to full back Leek who ran it back, passed to Adams who scored under the posts due to poor tackling. With the conversion kicked, Biggar led for the first time in the match.
Despite Waysiders trying their hardest, and asking questions of the Biggar defence, the defence stood strong. The forwards, who worked away brilliantly throughout the game, tackling everything, denied them. Biggar then sealed the game after a turnover, which resulted in a very strong run from Scott who went over between the uprights.
Jardine added the extras and the game finished 33-21 to the away side. This scoreline flattered Biggar a bit as Waysiders played well throughout the match but the forwards from the visiting team were able to keep their counterparts at bay in another excellent competitive friendly match.

Biggar end season with defeat

Hillhead Jordanhill 24 Biggar 20
Biggar completed their Premier C programme with what was ultimately a successful, yet at the same time largely uninspiring performance against a fired-up and much more dynamic Hill Jills XV.
That Biggar lost is of no real consequence although they, and their supporters, would have dearly preferred that they had played better. In actual fact however, the losing bonus point gained puts any thoughts or mathematical possibilities of Regional rugby to bed. Biggar will finish in 3rd or 4th spot, their final placing dependant on whether or not Hill Jills can get the better of Selkirk who they are due to meet in April. If the Glasgow side can win that game they will tie with Biggar on league points but if they can gain an all-important bonus point win – a feat they achieved on Saturday against Biggar – then they will go above Biggar to finish in 3rd spot themselves.
In perfect spring weather – those who had been on Scotland duty last week commenting that the temperatures in Italy were akin to those in Glasgow – Biggar had the worst possible start as directly from the kick-off and as Biggar seemed half asleep, Hill Jills opened the scoring with an opportunist try from livewire scrum half Hadden MacPherson converted by Andy Leslie.
The Glasgow side were behind only once after this score and that at just about the death. Michael Rutherford’s breenge to the line should have resulted in Biggar’s first try but his pass to Suti Faamausili going forward. The score was merely delayed and came after some super combination play between the Wilbore twins which saw Amo cross for the try.
A huge driving maul paved the way for Hills second score this going to stand off Stuart Howie and again converted by Leslie. Biggar came right back into things as both sides revelled in the dry pitch – this surface clearly much improved from a fortnight ago when the Selkirk game was postponed.
Some great support play from Colin Arthur, Rutherford, Jade Gardner saw Amo pick up his second try, this converted by Craig Parker for a 14-12 halftime score.
The second half saw the same pace maintained. Biggar continued to take some great lineout ball as Grant Owens duelled with ex-Biggar man David Fisken but their fringe defence and handling, which had been so good the previous week against Falkirk deserted them somewhat.
Almost from the restart Biggar yielded ground at the scrum base and this ultimately led to a chance for Hills fullback Daniel Osugo to round the cover for a try but a quick riposte came from Biggar stand-off Conor Lavery who dropped a neat goal. 19-15 to the Glasgow outfit.
At this point the game lost a good deal of its shape as changes and injuries began to affect both teams. Iain Renwick replaced Davy Reive, Andrew Goodall came on for Douglas Notman, Lewis McLachlan replaced the tireless Charles Cochrane, and Rutherford, who has been carrying an ankle knock for some time (and after receiving attention) was forced off to be replaced by Andrew Peacock . Meanwhile a string of Hills players were also hurt, this eventually leading to uncontested scrums as prop Paul Sheerin became the second Hills front row man to go off. While understandable uncontested scrums are never fun for those watching or indeed for those playing.
Biggar managed to reduce the deficit again via another Wilbore try – touch judge Gaffney ruling that he had not put a foot into touch – to take the score to 20-19, the only time Biggar would lead.

An hitherto unlikely win just about looked on the cards but Hills had other things on their mind and despite an excellent restart from Faamausili and Lavery, Hills engineered a break from Leslie which took him almost home. A superb covering tackle denied him the try but his offload was
scooped up by MacPherson who rounded off the day with the bonus point try.
At 24-20 Biggar could scarcely afford to concede another try and indeed might have recorded another of their own Lavery just knocking on as he went for an interception. As it was Hills held on and celebrated their lifeline to National league rugby.
This is the last real 1st XV game for Biggar and as such it marks the last appearance of Suti and Jade who depart for home as their visas have come to an end. It is hoped that the popular Wilbore twins and the hugely combative Joe Scheres will return next season to link up with Biggar’s locals. Watch this space!
It was good to meet up with ex-Hills coach Aaron Collins on the touchline. The big Kiwi has no rugby connections now but still lives close to Hughenden. He of course coached Hills before coming to Biggar with the excellent Sam Muir and Jeff Wright in tow.
Biggar
A. Wilbore, H. Wilbore, J. Gardiner, C. Thomson, C. Parker, C. Lavery, D Reive, S. Faasaumili, M. Rutherford, C. Arthur, G. Owens, J. Harvey, D. Notman, J. Scheres, C. Cochrane Replacements, I Renwick, A. Peacock, L. McLachlan, A. Goodall

Colts Training

The Colts are reminded that training is now only on Thursday evenings
 

Colts Training

The Colts are reminded that training is now only on Thursday evenings
 

Colts Report for 24th March 2012

Boroughmuir 15                Biggar 7

In an excellent game of rugby through at Meggetland, the Colts came close to securing their first win over Boroughmuir this season in the Edinburgh Shield. The match was close throughout, but Boroughmuir turned round at half-time 10-0 ahead as they took their chances to score. The second half was the same but Biggar opened their account after twenty minutes after some good support play resulted in Robbie Swann crashing through three defenders to score beside the post. Craig Parker added the conversion to set up an exciting last fifteen minutes. However, it was Boroughmuir who took the chance and secured victory in the final five minutes.

All who attended the game were very proud of the Colts, their commitment to the task, the style of rugby and their behaviour ion and off the pitch - a great credit to the club.

Biggar U-15’s in jubilant pose after their win at Linlithgow

Thanks to Leigh for the photo!!

Biggar RFC headlines for 18th March

Development Appeal
Those in attendance at Hartreemill these past two Saturdays, or at the meeting held at Coulter Mill last week, will be well aware of the current appeal for funds to help complete the first phase of the clubhouse redevelopment.
Very simply the club must raise around £25K in order to complete this first phase, with some £200K on offer. Additional changing rooms, improved clubhouse entrance, revamped toilet facilities, draining of the 1st XV and training pitches are all included in this first phase.
This is a fantastic opportunity for the club and is without doubt the biggest project at Hartreemill since the clubhouse was built and opened 22 years ago.
Anyone who would like to support this project – Life memberships, 10-year memberships, Honorary Vice–Presidentships, donations etc are all methods which the club are willing to explore -
should speak to any committee member asap.

Comic Relief Mile ; the Biggar mile!
Have you signed up yet? This is the first time the Comic Relief mile ahs come to Biggar and the club are looking for as many to turn out at Hartreemill as possibly can. You can pick a 1-mile, 3-mile or 6-mile course – basically whatever you think you can complete. Fancy dress would be good too! If you are running BRING a FRIEND!!! The more the merrier.

This weekend
Saturday
1sts v Hillhead Jordanhill RBS Premier C away KO 2pm
2nds v GHA  RBS Reserve League National Division 2 : away KO 3pm
3rds v Dalkeith 2nds ; RBS Reserve league Pod C away KO 3pm
Colts v Boroughmuir

Sunday
New Image training at 11am
P4-P7 Minis at Heriots, arrive 11.15 for 12noon KO.
S1 and S2 v East Kilbride - away
U-15 tbc
U-16 tbc

Biggar Minis have a tough day at Edinburgh Accies

Mini news
Biggar RFC took 5 age group teams to their first Edinburgh Tournament of the year at Edinburgh Academicals ranging from P3s to P7s.
The P4s started with a wake up call from a strong home team Biggar despite having many good runs were always halted just before the try line the home team getting the ball wider quicker and running in 11 tries to Biggar's 2. In the second game Biggar tackled well and kept the game with Heriots close losing 6 - 4. In the last game Biggar led Currie most of the match running in trys from 3 different players but ended losing 7 - 5.
The Biggar P6s came up against 3 strong teams and had some good attacks but never got onto the front foot losing to North Berwick 11 - 0, Heriots 4 - 1 and to Currie by 8 - 0.
The Biggar P7s started against Heriots with some good running but losing 6 - 1, Biggar upped their game in the second match tackling and linking up well keeping the game close but losing 5 - 2 to Stewart Melville. In the final match against Watsonians Biggar were 7 - 0 down at half time but through strong tackling held the score to 8 - 0 at the end.
All the Biggar teams and players played in the true spirit of rugby and enjoyed their day in Edinburgh and the experience will help bring the teams together.

Biggar U-15’s in Linlithgow thriller

U-15’s Edinburgh Bowl
Linlithgow 24 Biggar 27
In this bowl semi final Biggar eventually triumphed in what was a cracker of game and the very epitome of a ‘to and fro’ contest.
Biggar opened with a try from Simon Denholm before Linlithgow replied. Back on the attack Biggar scored again from Manock but L’gow scored their second to draw level again.
With the scores tied at full time after Richard Morgan sped over and L’gow added a third on the stroke of full time neither of the coaches or referee knew for sure if the result should stand with the ‘away’ team going through or whether extra time should be played.
As this was such a good game it was decided to play 2 x 10 minute halves but with proviso that Biggar would win if the ‘away’ team ruling was in the league rules.
This additional time saw Biggar streak into a two try lead courtesy of tries from Denholm and Morgan before L’gow replied with one of their own which, converted, made the score 27-24.
A minute remained but in a purple patch for the home side they managed a final fling which looked certain to end with a winning try. The referee however blew up on what was the final pass, deeming it to have been forward. This was a brave decision but to L’gow’s credit there were no complaints.
As it turned out Biggar had in fact already ‘won’ as the away rule was indeed applicable.
Biggar now prepare for the bowl final which is to be held at Musselburgh (yet to be confirmed) next Sunday and against the winners of the RHC/Haddington game.

Colts Report for 17th March 2012

Dunbar 12                           Biggar 31 

The Colts continued their Edinburgh Shield campaign with a good away win at Dunbar. Dunbar only had 13 players, so conceded the game but accepted two of Biggar’s subs so that the game could go ahead. Biggar started well and opened the scoring after taking a 5m scrum against the head allowing No 8 Robbie Swann to pick up from the back of the scrum and power over. However this just stirred Dunbar who responded with two good tries to take a 12-5 lead. On the stroke of half time, Biggar pulled one back after several good phases of play sucked in the Dunbar defence allowing Graham Jamieson the score in the corner.

The second half was closely fought for the first fifteen minutes, and then Biggar cut loose with three unanswered tries. Jamie Orr stole the Dunbar line out and fed the ball to Danny McGinn who fed the ball out the line. Graham Jamieson can into the line at pace and was held up 2m from the line, but offloaded to the supporting Callum Whyte to score. Jamie Orr then stole another Dunbar line out ball and Danny McGinn passed to Callum Whyte on the blindside to make a good break. He passed to Stephen Campbell to continue the break who passed back inside to Callum Whyte for an excellent score. The final try came from a No8 pick-up from James Simpson who broke up the blindside and outpaced the cover for a fine individual try under the posts. Craig McDonald converted three of the tries for a final score of 31-12 to Biggar.
 

Colts Reunion anniversary

Yogi’s Colts Reunion : 5th May
As he approaches 10 years in charge of the Colts XV what better way to celebrate than to get as many players from the various years to come and play in an Invitation match prior to a celebratory dinner.
Ian Barr has advanced plans underway for this event which will take place on May 5th at Hartreemill. Around 50 guests, players and Mums and Dads have already confirmed their participation, so if you have had an invitation – or would like one – then please get in touch with Ian (07808 761599) to confirm your interest. Tickets are a snip at £15/person.

P2/P3 Team Play First Competitive Games at Musselburgh

The P2/P3 warriors fired up for their first competitive games at Musselburgh.

Ben looks for a way through the Musselburgh defence.

Musselburgh have possession in Biggar territory.

Fergus is off and running.

Musselburgh are clear to score.

Tom goes around the defence.

Angus in the thick of it.

Ed, with a burst of speed.

Portabello look to move the ball out wide.

Thomas about to score a try.

Portabello with posession.

Max heads for the space.

Fergus on the move, with Cole in support.

Portabello just about to score, just out of reach of the chasing defence.

Thomas evades the Portabello defence.

P7s at the Melrose Mini Tournament 2012

P7's played four games in their pool:

Melrose 4 - Biggar 0

Langholm 2 - Biggar 1

Kelso 1 - Biggar 2

Jed-Forest 1 - Biggar 2

Biggar Mini section travel to Musselburgh at the weekend

Mini news
P3/2
A strong squad of 12 P3s and P2s turned out for the first touch game for this age group at Musselburgh.
Bags of enthusiasm and excitement were translated into a commendable win, draw and loss, although it could have gone either way in all the matches, as all teams were very well matched.
Considering Biggar have only had one training session together as a team they really showed what talent exists within this age group, organising themselves well in attack and defence, against sides who have played together considerably longer.
All in all we aimed to have fun and learn something at Musselburgh, and we can certainly say we achieved both of those aims.
Biggar -v- Musselburgh A draw 4-4
Biggar -v- Musselburgh B win 2-1
Biggar -v- Portobello lost 3-2

P4’s
Something about the sea air must make the kids in Portobello and Musselburgh grow big. The P4s took a squad of 10 against the East coast giants. The first game saw some good running and link up play however Portobello were too strong, winning 9 - 4.
The second game against Musselburgh saw some great tackling and running with the ball in the first half from Biggar who led 4 -2 at half time . In the second half the team tired and ended up losing 9 - 7. All enjoyed the games and sea air.

P5’s
Twelve P5's took on the 'giants' of the East Coast - we were slightly outsized today !! Biggar played well and showed some really strong tackling combined with great passing against two very formidable and 'together' teams for their age group.
Biggar kept trying to pull back but today we just never quite made it. That said the P5's did put in a good performance and managed to hold their own against two physically stronger sides, making for close scoring.

There was no rugby for either the P6 or P7 sides due to a scout camp. Normal service will resume next week!

Club News for 12th March

Comic Relief Mile ; the Biggar mile!

Have you signed up yet? This is the first time the Comic Relief mile has come to Biggar and the club are looking for as many to turn out at Hartreemill as possibly can. You can pick a 1-mile, 3-mile or 6-mile course – basically whatever you think you can complete. Fancy dress would be good too and why not chase or race the McSween Haggis! If you are running BRING a FRIEND!!! The more the merrier.

Yogi’s Colts Reunion : 5th May
As he approaches 10 years in charge of the Colts XV what better way to celebrate than to get as many players from the various years to come and play in an Invitation match prior to a celebratory dinner.
Ian Barr has advanced plans underway for this event which will take place on May 5th at Hartreemill. Around 50 guests, players and Mums and Dads have already confirmed their participation, so if you have had an invitation – or would like one – then please get in touch with Ian (07808 761599) to confirm your interest. Tickets are a snip at £15/person.

Midi section raise a fantastic sum on Sunday

Congratulations to all the Mums and Dads, sons and daughters who helped realise the magnificent sum of £215 from post match catering on Sunday!!!

Biggar RFC Midi section in action at The Showfield and Hartreemill

Hartreemill was a hive of activity on Sunday as all Midi sides were at home.
The S1 and S2 sections hosted the mighty Stirling County while the U-15’s and U-16’s hosted Lasswade and Falkirk respectively.
The Ladies who were on hand to provide Biggar’s trademark excellence in post match catering are to be applauded and congratulated on their efforts as a total of £215 was raised for the club funds!! Well done and thanks again to all.

S1 and S2
Stirling County are always a very difficult club to match and so it proved on Sunday with Biggar lacking in numbers as well as in physical size. Stirling had over 20 boys at both age groups while Biggar mustered a creditable 15 in each.
The S1 squad played a much tighter game than last week and despite running in a couple of good scores saw Stirling run in several long range efforts before losing out by 28-10. Commiserations and ,of course best wishes, to Alex Denholm who broke his wrist in a fine attempt at a try-saving tackle on Sunday.
The S2’s had a more difficult task and lost out to a very well drilled outfit by 37-0.

U-15's

The U-15’s Cup programme was completed on Sunday with Lasswade coming to Biggar. This was initially an away game for Biggar but with Lasswade’s pitches unavailable due to SRU bookings Lasswade agreed to come to Biggar.
The league game had seen Lasswade run out 12-5 winners in a close fought affair but hopes were that Biggar might this time get the better of their guests. That this was not in fact the case was again down to a size issue, Lasswade fielding a handful of strong running athletic players who did a good deal of damage by running in four straightforward tries.
Simon Denholm crossed for a great first try and Biggar should have gone ahead when Mark Ewart lost control of the ball as he prepared to touch down. As it was Lasswade replied with a breakaway score and then followed this up with another try to take a 12-5 half time lead.
Using the slope to their advantage Lasswade ran hard at Biggar after the break and crossed for another 4 tries before Biggar were able to reply with one of their own, this rounding things off and being scored by Liam Black. Denholm kicked the conversion to this last try while Lasswade added two conversions for the 36-12 score line.
All the sides now go into another draw with Biggar most likely to find themselves up against Haddington, RHC and Linlithgow. There will, therefore be another two games at the minimum.

Biggar U-16’s put fierce Falkirk into submission
Biggar U16s        Falkirk U16s
After two losses on the bounce and with the cup match in two weeks Biggar were looking to build some confidence and put in a good performance against Falkirk in this week’s friendly. Biggar had already played their opposition away and won, but Falkirk were a good side so the home side needed to perform well to take victory.
The match started and it was clear the word "friendly" wasn't one to be used for the occasion. It was a feisty encounter with handbags being exchanged by both sides. Despite this, the home side began to grow into the match and take control, creating chances but being unable to convert any of them. Finally though, after more Biggar pressure, the opening try came through some smart play by Warnock and Jardine, leading to Warnock scoring in the corner and then expertly converting it from the left flank.
Jardine soon got a try of his own after more pressure and good work from the forwards allowing the try to be scored again wide left. Warnock didn't quite manage to kick another very tough conversion, leaving the hosts 12 points to the good.
The game was being played in 3x20 minute periods and Biggar got another try before the first third ended through Campbell rounding three players before crashing over.
In the second period it was clear the visitors were more bothered by the ref than they were the match. Biggar just kept up the momentum from the first third and continued to score points. Firstly though, a Falkirk player was sent from the field due to an incident in a ruck which caused yet more abuse aimed in the ref's direction. From the resulting penalty in the visitor's 22 ball was tapped to Stewart who powered his way to the line. Warnock converted to make the score 26-0.
Falkirk had their moments during the half, spending time deep in the Biggar 22 but the home team's defence soon strong and Falkirk were unable to get themselves on the board.
Biggar however kept scoring points. After a loose pass on their own 5 metre line from the travelling team, Jardine pounced and added another try to Biggar's tally. The score stayed like this until the end of the third but Biggar could have had more if they had converted all their chances and, if it hadn't been for strong defence, they may well have leaked a try.
The final period of the match started with Falkirk running the game. They had the ball in the host's territory for long periods of time but, after more good work from the forwards, Biggar turned the ball over and mounted their own attack. This ended, like many of the attacks before, in a try. Biggar shipped the ball wide and Sinclair, after beating a couple of men went in for the try to extend Biggar's lead yet further.
Two more tries and the sending off of Campbell following yet another meeting of the two sides completed the match. Despite Falkirk’s assertion that the ref was the main culprit for their defeat the game was not so tight and ended 46-0.
It was a very good all round performance from Biggar and the scoreline could yet have been more emphatic. Both wingers and full back deserved tries for the chances they created throughout the game. It was good for Biggar to get back to winning ways after two defeats back to back and build towards the quickly approaching cup match.

Colts Report for 10th March 2012

Preston Lodge 7        Biggar  26

The Colts traveled through to Preston Lodge hoping to complete a double after the earlier win in the league. With only 5 minutes gone, the Colts secured their own lineout ball and fed it out the backs. They were held up about 10m from the line, but the supporting forwards set up good ruck ball and from the 3rd pick and go Robbie Swann crashed through to score under the posts. The teams were evenly matched and it was almost 30 minutes before there was another score. Liam Harvey had a great steal at the PL lineout, then drove through the line and passed to Danny Beagan. He and Robbie Swann then passed several times before Danny was illegally stopped 5m from the line. From the penalty, Robbie Swann took a crash ball to score his and the Colts second try of the day for a lead of 12-0 at half time.

With a sluggish start to the second half by Biggar, PL scored in five minutes. However, within 3 minutes normal service was resumed from an attacking scrum. Craig McDonald took the ball at pace and broke through the first line of defence and was held up 2m from the line but managed to offload to the supporting Danny McGinn to score a try. The Colts secured the game 15 minutes later from good ball from a scrum. Mark Bertram took the ball at pace to break through the defence then handed off both the fullback and then the winger for a great individual score. Craig McDonald converted three of the tries for a final score of 26-7 to Biggar.

Colts Report 3rd March 2012

Biggar 49                  Haddington 10

The Colts started their Edinburgh Shield campaign with an emphatic home win over Haddington. With only five minutes on the clock, the forwards took a scrum against the head and the ball was fed quickly through the hands to Graham Jamieson to run from 10m out. The second came from an attacking line out when the forwards took clean ball and drove to 5m out from the Haddington line. The ball was popped out the side of the maul to Craig McDonald to squeeze in at the corner. With less than twenty minutes gone the backs fed the ball through the hands to Graham Jamieson who drew the last man and passed to Mark Bertram for a score under the posts. The Colts were totally in control of the game at this stage and another fine move was finished off in the corner by the ever supporting Steven Campbell. Biggar’s final score of the half came from a ruck on the 22m line; Paul Davidson spotted a gap up the blind side and ran in unopposed. Graham Jamieson converted one of the tries for a 27-0 lead at half time.
The Colts made a very poor start to the second half and some poor tackling allowed Haddington to score two tries in the first 10 minutes. However after some quiet words from Mr. Barr, normal service was resumed. A good drive up the middle saw the ball passed to Aird Jardine (jnr) who timed his pass to Steven Campbell beautifully for Steven’s second try in the corner. Neal Cowan got on the score sheet with a pick and drive from the base of a ruck. Robbie Swann, who had several great breenges during the game, finally scored after some good recycling work by forwards and backs allowed him to drive over from 10m out. The final score of the day went to Andrew Fleming who collected a pass from Paul Davidson who had made a great break through the heart of the Haddington defence. Aird Jardine converted the final try.
In agreement with Haddington, both teams field some U-16 boys in the second half to give them some game time at the higher level. Biggar played Grant Hamilton, Aird Jardine, Danny McAllister, Kevin McCarrie and Alistair Sinclair in the second half. All played well, contributed to the win and were definitely not there just to make up the numbers.

Biggar Colts Report 25th February 2012

Selkirk  27               Biggar 10

Biggar's run in the National Cup came to an end on Saturday at the hands of the current leaders of the Borders League, Selkirk. Within five minutes, the Selkirk backs had opened the scoring after gathering up a loose ball and moving it wide very quickly. Biggar responded five minutes later from a good line out and drive by the forwards. This provided good ball to Gavin Parker who broke through the defence and offloaded to Mark Bertram to score. There then followed fifteen minutes of end to end rugby with both teams attacking and defending very well until, Selkirk broke through. Again, Biggar rallied and scored within five minutes. The forwards had a tremendous set of pick and drives into the heart of the Selkirk defence before Gavin Parker broke down the blind side and passed to Craig McDonald to score in the corner. Biggar then let Selkirk edge ahead again, from a penalty in front of the posts, to give them a 13-10 lead at half time.

The second half started well with both teams playing good rugby. With the Selkirk operating a rush defence, Gavin Parker's attempted chip was just not high enough and the interception allowed an easy run in for Selkirk. They scored a further try to win the game by 27-10.

The score line does not represent how close a game this was. The Colts acquitted themselves superbly and showed that they can compete with a strong Borders team.

U-16’s fail as Ayr come calling

Biggar  17  Ayr  50
After last weeks cup tie being called off due to frosty weather, Biggar hosted Ayr in the last eight of the U16s national cup this Sunday. This was Biggar's biggest game of the season, with the bowl in wait for the losers but the chance to play at Murrayfield in touching distance for the victors.
Biggar would need to be quick out the block so they could get on top of the opposition, as Ayr, going by their recent results, were a very strong side.
But it was Ayr that struck first. A high, hanging kick was put into the opposition 22 and Leek was unable to collect it. Ayr quickly whipped the ball to the opposite wing and the hosts scrambled defence was unable to stop a try in the corner for the away side.
Biggar came back after their slow start and won a penalty. Warnock attempted to get Biggar on the board. However, he was unable to take the difficult chance and the home side stayed five points adrift after Ayr's conversion was missed.
Biggar continued to have the ball in the opponents half and created chances that just escaped them. Graham was tap tackled just short of the line and the visitors were giving away numerous penalties as they tried to keep the home side at bay.
Eventually Ayr's defence buckled under the pressure. After many phases within just five metres of the Ayr line, Biggar spun it wide and scored through Graham. With Warnock unable to add the extras, the scores were level.
The hosts then became slack in light of their try and were unable to prevent the West Coast side scoring under the posts to regain their lead. It seemed that Ayr would take control of the match after this score. But, just before the half time break, McAllister burst through the Ayr back line and offloaded to Cullen who scored and, when Warnock slotted the conversation over, the scores were again level as the ref blew for half time.  
The second half was for Biggar, in short, nothing less than a nightmare. After such a fantastic performance in the first period, a total collapse ensued in the second.
It started much as the first half with it being a tight affair, but then Ayr scored two quick tries due to mistakes from the home side and suddenly, Biggar found themselves needing to chase the game. Their game was plagued with sloppy play. Constant mistakes from the village side allowed easy ball for their opponents who proceeded to run circles round them, scoring try after try. The tackling disappeared as did Biggar's hopes of progression in the tournament. They gained a consolation try through Cullen near the end but Ayr still continued to pile on the points before the final whistle put Biggar out of their misery.
It was a shame  to see Biggar wither away in the last thirty minutes but they just couldn't cope with the power and pace of Ayr. On another day, Biggar may have, maybe, been able to snatch it as they are a better team than the scoreline suggests. The plate now awaits for Biggar so the hunt for silverware is still on. They will have to pick themselves up and get prepared for the next challenge that awaits them using the lessons learnt from this match spurring them on.

Mini Open day

Mini news
Andy Tither was delighted to see around 16 newcomers at the club on Sunday for the Mini Open Day.
Both the New Image and lower Mini sides saw new members turn out and of course the hope is that they will have enjoyed themselves sufficiently to return.
As a general advert however, anyone who is looking to play this great game just needs to turn up on a Sunday between 11-12.30pm (for all those aged for primary 1-7), on a Monday 4-5pm (all Secondary aged girls)Wednesday between 7-8.30pm (for all secondary aged players) and on Tuesday and Thursday between 7-9pm (for all Colts – U-18’s - and all senior players , boys and girls).

Colts and Midi sides face defeats on Sunday.

The Colts travelled to the Borders to meet a Selkirk YC side which has been a regular in the knock-out stages of this competition for a number of years.
The Biggar side were well prepared for their game but it was Selkirk who came out on top by 25-10. While there was a deal of frustration at the result there could be few complaints the Borders lads just a bit sharper on the day.

The U-15’s league has been completed and so the sides have been drawn in a mini-league for the U-15 Cup competition. Biggar are in the 4 team pool and in addition to hosting ‘Muir they now travel to play Livingston (4th March) and Lasswade (11th March).
Boroughmuir proved to be too strong for Biggar who were playing just their second game since the end of November and who were a little short-handed, Ross Jackson from S2 answering the call for help. This rustiness showed through although the ‘Muir side –as had been the case in the 1st XV game – were a little stronger and quicker than their hosts. Unable to cross the ‘Muir line Biggar conceded 5 tries.
Pick of the Biggar bunch were the Liam’s - Black and McCarry - who both ran well in attack and tackled well in defence.
The game ended on a sour note as the ‘Muir winger twisted under a Biggar tackle injuring his neck. No chances were taken and the paramedics summoned. Many thanks to both Peter and Jennifer who attended and took Alex to the Royal in Edinburgh. Happily there was no lasting damage other than some bruising and while Alex is stiff and sore the word is that he is keen to play next week!! Thanks to referee George Allison for his whistling skills.

Biggar exit Edinburgh regional Cup

Boroughmuir 30 Biggar 7

Biggar can have no real complaints about their exit from the Edinburgh Regional semi final as they came up against a strong Boroughmuir XV who had the edge throughout on pace and power. Although propping up Premier A, Boroughmuir gave indication of what is required to compete at that level, their strength in the tackle and the pace of their support play proving too much for Biggar who, nevertheless contributed positively to the contest.
With Colin Arthur and Lewis McLachlan both unavailable Kevin Anderson and Charles Cochrane deputised but well though these two did it was a difficult time for the pack, particularly in the set piece, where Boroughmuir had the upper hand. Elsewhere the backs had a familiar look about them, the hope being that the dry wide pitch would assist Biggar’s runners.
Opening up well Biggar had their hosts on the back foot in the early exchanges as Boroughmuir whose discipline was found wanting on several occasions throughout the afternoon were pushed back into their own half and then 22. It is so important to turn possession and territory into points however and this Biggar were unable to do, so many half-breaks by amongst others Douglas Notman, Craig Parker, Callum Thomson and Amo and Hata (the Wilbore twins) stifled as the Biggar player was on the cusp of breaking through.
As it was it was the hosts who opened the scoring Biggar driven back to their own 22 before a series of close pick and drives ended with lock Ally Davidson on hand to pop the ball down in front of referee Peter Allan. Ex-Biggar man Alistair Warnock added the points for 7-0 with some 14 minutes of the game gone.
Biggar were able to dominate play for short periods but the final pass was often spilled or after getting into attacking positions the Biggar play lacked the control to convert this into points. The next score came from a Conor Lavery kick which looked to be on the button but Boroughmuir fullback Keith Buchan got his hands to it and immediately turned defence into attack, his run and some weak Biggar tackling leading to play being switched from left to right. Centre and ‘Muir skipper Malcolm Clapperton was on hand to exploit the overlap and touchdown for the score, this again converted by Warnock.
The game then dropped into a scrappy affair with neither side managing to get any continuity going, players making breaks and yards prior to others making errors and seeing ball spilled and turnovers conceded. Biggar finished the half on a high however, their forward play in the loose paying off as they were bale to take Boroughmuir right to their line. Patience was to be the key here and Biggar held onto ball well before a pop pass the Suti Faamausili saw the big man with the line at his mercy. A well timed sideways hit from ‘Muir hooker McIntosh did just enough to dislodge the ball as the big man fell and the chance was gone – half time.
Iain Renwick had picked up an ankle knock in the first half so he was replaced by David Reive at the break. Starting the second period as well as they had the first Biggar were this time able to open their account a great angle from Callum Thomson seeing the centre through the Boroughmuir defence ad over for a cracking score and one which gave Biggar a lift, just when it was needed. Amo added the conversion and at 14-7 it was game on.

Boroughmuir added Edinburgh winger Sep Visser to the action but Biggar took play back to their hosts from the restart and continued to retain possession around the half-way mark. A change of
tactic from Reive to chip the on-rushing ‘Muir defence - and probably the only option available - was snaffled by fullback Buchan and with the Biggar backs up flat the young ‘Muir man hared clear to the line for an opportunist try which proved to be a pivotal moment in the game. Having clawed their way back into the game, Biggar were 14 points behind and chasing things once again.
With 15 minutes of the half gone there was still plenty of time left. Although able to prosper from ‘Muir’s continued indiscipline and well though Biggar played – further exciting breaks from Hata Wilbore, Grant Owens (easily his most open display this season) – they were unable to break the ‘Muir line.
Warnock was then shown yellow as he killed the ball in a Biggar breakout but despite the advantage of the extra man that Biggar enjoyed, the ‘Muir defence was up to the task and prevented Biggar from adding to their tally.
Indeed ‘Muir should probably have scored, fullback Buchan again to the fore as his run split the Biggar defence. With all bar Amo Wilbore in his wake the Biggar man displayed massive determination to stick to the ‘Muir player’s flying heels before hauling him down virtually on the try line. With Biggar back in time to contest possession their reward was a penalty to clear their lines.
During this period the ‘Muir pack reverted to their pick and drive tactic. A series of barges to the line though initially well defended by Biggar resulted in ball being held up over the line and ‘Muir advantage. The scrums which followed saw ‘Muir exert further pressure and as Biggar’s scrum toiled – much as Scotland’s was to do the following day against France - referee Allan awarded a penalty try. Warnock’s return coincided with this try and he duly added the 2 points from the conversion.
Another excellent try saving tackle, this time by Joe Scheres on Visser preceded the last ‘Muir try, this credited to hooker McIntosh who won the referee’s vote although the ball looked to have been bounce down. Warnock again added the points for the final 35-7 tally.
All-in-all the scoreline probably flattered the home side a little but they will now go on to meet Heriots in the Edinburgh cup Final which if they win will take them into the national semi-final.
Biggar
A. Wilbore, J. Gardiner, C. Lavery, C. Thomson, C. Parker, H. Wilbore, I Renwick, S. Faasaumili, M. Rutherford, K. Anderson, G. Owens, J. Harvey, D. Notman, J. Scheres, C. Cochrane Replacements D Reive, A. Peacock, R. Aitken, A. Goodall

Coach Derek Armstrong took heart from many aspects of the day’s play but while it would have been great to get the win, the primary objective for this season is to gain league points which will ensure National league rugby for next season. Kelso’s win and Peebles defeat on Saturday means that Biggar drop to 3rd spot again and Falkirk who are at Hartreemill in 3 weeks creep up the table. The next couple of games are likely to be crucial therefore with Biggar at Kelso this coming Saturday before welcoming league leaders Selkirk on the 10th March.

Gold Club Draw

Club News
Gold Club draw results
£250    -    327  Angie Falconer
£100    -    139  Betty Gray
£100    -    175  Craig Whitefield
£100    -    245  Emma Robertson
£100    -    170  Cliff Thomson
£100    -     53   Alf Tucker

Midi section games postponed

Sunday dawned cold and frosty and this meant that the Midi games scheduled – against Hawick, Linlithgow and Ayr – were all postponed. The frustration at these postponements was increased ten-fold when at 1pm the pitches had thawed sufficiently for a contact session to go ahead. Damned if you do….damned if you don’t!!

Details of the U-15 and U-16 cup games have yet to be finalised – hopefully there will be a decision this week.

This weekend is another international weekend with Scotland playing on Sunday against France. Despite the fact that several of the Midi age group purchased tickets weeks ago for the game it seems that those in the U-15 and U-16 age groups may well have to play in their respective knock out competition games and miss the international. Quite how this comes to be no one knows especially as the SRU strive to get folks to buy tickets for the games…!! Watch this space!

Biggar edge out Peebles

Biggar 8 Peebles 3
In bitterly cold conditions Biggar managed –just - to stem the Peebles tide which swamped the home 22 for the best part of the last quarter of the game. In so doing they hung on to their slender 5 point lead to collect another 4 vital Premier C points and move into 2nd spot, 13 points clear of their visitors who now look to be perilously close to losing their National league status.
The score suggests a tight match and this it indeed was with neither side able to convert whatever pressure they had into points. Biggar enjoyed the lions share of possession and territory in the first half and in the second it was Peebles who took the game to Biggar, their tactic of pick and drive, although perhaps not the most exciting to watch, proving to be very effective and ensuring that the large crowd were kept to the end despite the cold.

Biggar fielded a virtually full strength XV with Hata Wilbore and Conor Lavery starting as they finished last week’s game at stand off and centre respectively. The teams managed to complete their warm ups in bright sunshine but the game itself began in dark, dreich conditions as one of the days driving snow/sleet showers swept the length of the pitch. Fortunately this eased after the game started and so, while still bitter, the overhead conditions were fair.
Biggar, who have had a more consistent season then their visitors whose win against West last week was their first since they defeated Biggar back in October, began strongly and managed to register the first - and what was to be the only - try of the day. A penalty award, and unlike tries these came at frequent intervals, saw scrum half Iain Renwick tap quickly to feed prop Suti Faamausili whose strength over 3 metres was too great to stop. Amo Wilbore was off target with the conversion but at 5-0 this was an excellent start.
At this stage it was all Biggar, the side taking up from where they left last week with players of all positions appearing all over the pitch to take ball to, and in many cases through, the Peebles defence. Faamausili, Colin Arthur (prominent in the loose and in defence), Lewis McLachlan, Conor Lavery, Hata Wilbore and Michael Rutherford were all to the fore in this period as Biggar ran at Peebles. The visitor’s defence was fairly sound though helped in no small manner by Biggar handling errors. Those off-loads which went to hand ensured forward momentum but there was a suspicion that there were too many which were forced and a tad risky. After 23 minutes however Biggar crossed for a second score, or so it seemed, the referee having signalled for a score before chalking it off as his touch judge deemed the ball to have been held up over the line. Had the score been awarded the game may well have taken on a different shape but as it was this let off gave the Peebles XV a little breathing space which they gladly took and try as Biggar did, they could not force another score of any sort.
This ‘score’ coincided with the retiral of Peebles flanker Euan Jackson who took a big blow to the head from his own player Tawhiri Walsh who hit the ruck at great pace. The injury at first seemed much worse as Jackson lay prostrate and became the attention of physios and bagmen from both sides but happily the youngster was able to walk off although clearly still very dazed.
Penalties were flying around as players lay on the ball, on the tackled player, failed to release, crept off side….indeed every law seemed to be broken and the game began to degenerate into a very scrappy, error-strewn affair with neither side managing to dominate. It was therefore hardlysurprising when a Peebles foray into the Biggar half resulted in a kickable penalty which was
converted by Greg Raeburn for 5-3.
The half ended with Biggar on the attack but unable to add to their tally as their errors and Peebles defence prevented a try.
Given that Biggar had been playing into the breeze, most supporters would have settled for the lead, believing that a sound second half performance would result in a good win. That this was not in fact the case was down to a very committed Peebles defence and to Biggar errors of judgement.

Biggar should have been able to pin Peebles down in their own 22 via use of the boot but a relative lack of tidy possession and a reliance on pick and drives meant that instead they tried to make hard yards with ball in hand. This paid off for some of the time but due to a series of handling errors it did mean that Peebles were allowed to spend longer in the Biggar half than they would have expected.
Penalties continued to be awarded as both sides tried to close out their opponents, Lavery’s intrusion from centre – this was a tactic which worked well – ending as Peebles lock forward Jake Serex prevented fair release, the big lock shown a yellow for his sins. Another penalty allowed Wilbore to extend Biggar’s lead to 8-3 but then Peebles found themselves further hampered as they lost another player – fullback Donald Anderson - to a yellow.
With minutes gone the referee used his cards again as Faamausili failed to roll away from the tackle. This coincided with the return of Serex. Had there been a door to the sin-bin it would surely have swung off its hinges!
Faamausili’s absence led to a restructure of Biggar’s line up, Douglas Notman taken off to allow Kevin Anderson to appear at prop. Jade Gardiner also came on for Davy Reive at wing. A crossing offence from Anderson, a harsh penalty against Joe Scheres who made an excellent turnover all prevented Biggar from taking a grip of the game and despite their shortage of players Peebles weathered the yellow card penalty to stay in the game.
With the game entering the last quarter Biggar were then reduced to 14 as Iain Renwick was shown yellow, Peebles taking a greater control of things as Biggar’s defence was put to the test. Michael Rutherford retired with an ankle injury, his replacement Anderson but just after Renwick made his return Faamausili was shown a second yellow which - two yellows equal a red – took Biggar back to 14.
Despite all the cards this was not a dirty game with scarcely anything more than a wee scuffle throughout the 80 minutes.
Peebles really cranked up the pressure in this last quarter as they virtually camped out in the Biggar 22, play being switched from left to right and the forwards picking and driving to the line. Held up on at least 3 occasions there was a certain inevitability about the situation and it would have been no surprise had Peebles crossed the line for what would have been an equalising if not match winning try.

As it was however Biggar managed to hold the Peebles effort out via a combination of stout and well-organised defence to claim the points, Peebles claiming what could yet be a crucial losing bonus.
Biggar
A. Wilbore, D Reive, C. Lavery, C. Thomson, C. Parker, H. Wilbore, I Renwick, S. Faasaumili, M. Rutherford, C. Arthur, G. Owens, J. Harvey, D. Notman, J. Scheres, L. McLachlan Replacements, J. Gardiner, A. Peacock, K. Anderson, C. Cochrane

Biggar Colts Report 18th February 2012

Biggar 43                  Kilmarnock 0

The Colts moved into the quarter finals of the National U-18 Cup with an emphatic win over Kilmarnock at the Showfield. Straight from the kick-off they showed their intention with 17 phases of play taking them close to, but not over the Kilmarnock line. However within five minutes, at an attacking 5 m scrum, the ball was popped to scrum half Danny McGinn who sprinted past the cover.  The second and final score of the first half came from a midfield break by Mark Bertram deep into the 22. The ball was quickly recycled and fed out to second row Liam Harvey to score in the corner for a 10-0 lead in the second half.
The forwards were well on top of the opposition, this and set great support play took its toll on Kilmarnock in the second half with five unanswered tries run in Biggar. The first came from a typical Robbie Swann break up the centre of the pitch. When tackled he offloaded to Graham Jamieson who finished off with a score in the corner. Gavin Parker then made an excellent break scything through the defence for what looked like a brilliant individual try. However he was stopped a couple of metres short, but was able to offload to the supporting Paul Davidson to score under the posts. Mark Bertram got on the score sheet following a quick tap penalty was fed out the line beyond the cover for an easy run in. Andrew Fleming set up the next try with a fine line break before passing to the supporting Callum Whyte. Andrew Fleming then set up the final try with a tremendous break up the wing and pass inside to Peter Millar for a score under the posts. Gavin Parker converted four of the tries. Man of the Match was Robbie Swann.

Midi and School results

Biggar High U-16 28 v Larbert 5
This was the eagerly-awaited quarter final of the Brewin Dolphin National Bowl and saw Biggar host Larbert High at Biggar on Friday.
Conditions were not promising all week but the game went ahead nevertheless. A notable absentee was breakaway forward Ryan Anderson who recently picked up a very nasty facial injury at Lanarkshire training. The school and club wishes him the best of luck for a speedy recovery.
Larbert became one of the SRU Schools of Rugby this session and although this is for S1 it is clear that the school plays good rugby, with their big pack setting out their stall early. Larbert proved adept at the ‘pick and go’ tactic but Biggar were well served in defence by both James Gray and
Kieran Scott who were fairly uncompromising in their tackling. The Larbert strength told eventually however as they continued to take the game to Biggar to score a try to go 5-0 ahead.
This had the desired effect on Biggar who began to play better rugby, tries by Reece Cullen and then Aird Jardine both converted by Jack Warnock putting Biggar 14-5 ahead at the break.
Despite deteriorating conditions Biggar still tried to play open rugby and their endeavour was
rewarded as Danny McAllister and then Craig Stewart both crossed for tries converted again by Warnock.
Larbert were unable to add to their tally and so it is Biggar High who progress to the semi final stage. As yet their opponents are unknown, the only other quarter final tie to have been played seeing trinity from Edinburgh get the better of Westhill from Aberdeen.

U-15’s v Uddingston
As the league season continues to be affected by the weather Biggar were delighted to host Uddingston on Sunday, this Biggar’s first competitive outing since last December. Numbers at training have been constant through this long spell of inactivity but the boys have been desperate for a game and this undoubtedly told as they played some great rugby to win by 33-21.
A debut at stand off saw Simon Denholm excel and his lead meant that tries were scored by Liam Black (3), Richard Morgan (2) and Liam McGarry. James Barr added 2 conversions for the total.
A cracking result and one which should give the boys a boost as they try to complete their league programme. This continues this Sunday with Linlithgow due to visit Hartreemill.

The U-16’s recorded a good 33-25 win over Falkirk while the S1 side fared less well as they were outplayed by Dunfermline.

Bonus point win at Whitecraigs

For the first time in Premier C league action Biggar travelled west to Whitecraigs and a slightly warmer but equally grey day as the one they left in Biggar. It was a new experience for both sides to have a lady refereeing as it was for Mhairi Hay who was in charge of her first Premier C match. The match stared with both sides looking very competitive and very little to chose between the teams, Whitecraigs seemed to have the upper hand
in the scrum with prop Colin Arthur being spoken to about his binding which later resulted in a yellow card for persistent offending in the scrum.
The first score came from Biggar via a penalty that was comfortably kicked by Amo Wilbore. However within a couple of minutes Biggar had offended and gave Whitecraigs the opportunity to level the scores but fortunately for Biggar the kicker pulled his kick wide. Persistent pressure from Whitecraigs in the Biggar half resulted in a further penalty which this time was kicked to level the scores. Biggar were attacking from the restart and from a scrum just inside the Whitecraigs half which, despite the pressure being applied by Whitecraigs, saw a break from Lewis McLachlan who broke through two or three players to offload to Douglas Notman. He continued forward in similar vein before making a wide pass to Amo Wilbore who, with his speed and agility, easily outpaced the Whitecraigs defence to score for Biggar. His conversion kick was however off target.  shortly afterwards Biggar were reduced to 14 men as Colin Arthur was yellow carded and
Whitecraigs, after a spell of persistent pressure, managed to score a try but were unable to convert leaving the scores level at half time and 8-8.
The second half continued with very little difference in quality or performance and the Biggar support were expecting a hard fought contest to keep the scores close. Further infringements by both sides resulted in each team kicking a further penalty taking the scores to 11-11.  Whitecraigs superiority in the scrum resulted in Biggar being shunted backwards each time they had the put in and the pack did well to stay on their feet. A spell of persistent pressure from Biggar in the Whitecraigs 22 gave Conor Lavery an opportunity for Biggar to take the lead with a neatly converted drop goal. Not to be outdone Whitecraigs once again were on the attack and a further infringement from Biggar for not rolling away after a tackle saw them get another opportunity to level the scores with a penalty, however
once again they were off target and Biggar remained in front.

With approx. 20 minutes to go it looked like being a tense final quarter. Despite Biggar's frailty in the scrum some quick work from Ian Renwick and the switching of Hata Wilbore to stand off, saw Biggar in a far more attacking mode with penetrating breaks into the Whitecraigs half. The first to break cleanly through was Hata Wilbore himself who evaded at least 4 players to score for Biggar under the posts, the kick was converted easily by brother Amo. Further pressure again from the Biggar pack, especially in loose play, saw Suti Faamausilli score in a similar position resulting in another seven points taking the score to 28-11.

The Biggar supporters were now hoping for a bonus point try and once again good work by the forwards resulted in Joe Scheres making the vital breakthrough and with support either side offloaded to Jade Gardiner who got the final try and well deserved bonus point. Unfortunately that was the last of the scoring leaving a final score of 33-11 and a very happy team, coach and travelling support.
To round off a good day for Biggar, Whitecraigs then selected Amo Wilbore as their man of the match.

Mini bring a Friend and Come and Try Rugby Day

Due to the outstanding work and organisation of Dawn Currell the Biggar Mini section is thriving with coaches in all age groups. In order to grow the section still further on the playing side a couple of innitiatives the brain child of Patrick McGinn are proposed for Sunday 26th February. Invitations to come and try rugby, have been distrubuted in the South Lanarkshire area to pupils who have taken part in the Development Officers Tag program. On the day they will initially be placed in a group of new starters overseen by Andy Tither with a view to possibly integrating some more confident players into their specific age group.

To incentivise existing members the club is offering a prize to the member that brings along the most friends to the bring a friend day which will run together with the come try rugby event. Flyers are available from age grade club coaches and the names of friends must be written on the flyer. The event will commence with registration at Biggar RFC for the New Comers at 10.30 am with departure around 12.30pm 

For further information please coantact Andy Tither Biggar Development Officer on 07898 800911 or coaching@vikingrugby.co.uk

Girls Development Day Sunday 19th Feb

Building on the success of last years National Championship Winning Under 15s team. Biggar RFC Development officer Andy Tither has been working with a group of 15, S1 and S2 girls from Biggar High School with a view to entering a sustainable team into competitive rugby at Hartree next year. Mindfull of the need for fixture for this squad a girls open day has been arranged for between 1pm and 4pm on Sunday 19th Feb. Already confirmed are the Biggar group plus an enthusiastic bunch of girls from Dumfries who are keen to play in some organised rugby for the first time.

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Andy will be leading the sessions and it is hoped that some of the current Scotland Senior Womens players will be present  to help with guidance for our young players. The event is open to all players new to the game or experienced between the ages of S1 and S6 which are the cut off ages for U15 and U18

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Just come along and give rugby a shot if you havent already you never know you may just be the next Scottish International to come from Biggar, following in the footsteps of the Worlds most capped womens player Donna Kennedy. It is hoped that enough players from the area will attend to make some small sided games and most importantly have some fun.

For more Info contact Andy Tither on 07898 800911

Edinburgh Cup

Having won our section of the Edinburgh Cup qualifier, Biggar have been drawn against Boroughmuir in the 1st round of the knock out stage.

Tie will be played at Meggetland on Saturday 25th February.

Youth section news

There was no rugby action for anyone at the weekend as once again frost bound pitches at Currie and Portobello prevented play for the Youth sides on Sunday. These postponements are likely to rule out full completion of the Edinburgh U-15 and U-16 league programmes as the deadline for this competition is 19th February.
The sides will then enter into cup competitions the draws for which will be made on the 20th – details to follow whenever the draw is published.

There is some great news about the club’s Colts XV who finished top of their preliminary section of the Edinburgh Cup. They are now through to the Shield section although the next tie is currently delayed awaiting other sections to complete their programme of games.
In addition to this the top 4 finish in the EDU U-18 league means that they have qualified for the U-18 National Youth Cup; the first round of which is on 18th February 2012 and will be a home game against Hamilton. This is sure to be a touch encounter and will make for another exciting day at Hartreemill as the 1st XV face Peebles in Premier C action on the same day.
Meanwhile, and not to be outdone, Biggar High School’s U-16 side face Larbert High on Friday afternoon in the quarter finals of the Brewin Dolphin Bowl. The game will be played at Hartreemill and it is hoped that there will be a good turnout of supporters for this match. The winners will gain a place in the semi-finals against one of the following school, Trinity (Edinburgh), Westhill (Aberdeen), Plockton (Highlands), Madras (Fife), Shawlands (Glasgow) and Hawick (Borders).
Good luck to all involved.

Advance notice is given of a Girls Open Day scheduled for Sunday 19th February (1-4pm). This will be led by DO Andy Tither but will feature other club coaches as well. There is currently a strong group of S1 girls playing at Biggar High School and the hope is that this day will provide a spark for others to join.
The U-16 side achieved considerable success last season but with the squad diminished as they could not compete at U-18 level there is a pressing need to rejuvenate the girls section.
Central to this would be the involvement of a Girls coach. Anyone with an interest in driving what could be a very successful group forwards would be made more than welcome. It may be of course that the role could be shared, so please….think about it and if interested get in touch with the club.

The Girls Day will be one of the last official events Andy will attend in his capacity as DO as he tendered his resignation last week. A combination of reasons convinced him to leave although he has thoroughly enjoyed his work with the youngsters at the club.
He will return south where he hopes to pick up a similar role in local schools.
The club join in according Andy a sincere vote of thanks for his efforts and wish him well.
The post has once again been advertised and interested parties should check the SRU website for details.

Whitecraigs preview

After another blank Saturday to allow for the start of the 6-Nations championship – and what a disappointment that turned out to be – Biggar return to Premier C action with a trip to Whitecraigs RFC.
The Glasgow side are currently on the same number of points as Biggar although they have played one more game as their match against Hill Jills last weekend was one of the few in Scotland to be played that day (Biggar’s match against Selkirk postponed because of frost).
This is another crucial match for Biggar then as a win would keep them ahead of the pack while a defeat would see them drop out of the ‘top 4’ who are destined for National league rugby next season.
Coach Derek Armstrong will hope to have a full strength squad to select from but the trip will not be an easy one. The two sides met back in September with Biggar taking the honours courtesy of an 11-8 scoreline. Whitecraigs took an all-important bonus point in that game and will doubtless start as favourites in this game as they have home advantage.
Please note that the kick-offs are now back to 3pm for the remainder of the season.

Saturday 28th January

Biggar RFC (in common with most rugby clubs in Scotland) were frustrated on Saturday after Friday nights frost put paid to any hopes of play. Biggar were scheduled to meet Border side Selkirk in what was likely to be a very entertaining Premier C league match, but although the day started out bright, the sun quickly disappeared and there was insufficient heat to trouble the hard ground.
Obvious apologies but at the same time many thanks to the Lanarkshire and Peebleshire Branch of the Blackface Breeders Association who continued with their sponsorship lunch but without the attraction of the game.
There is no date confirmed as yet for the replay. The next scheduled game for the 1st XV is on the 11th February when they travel to take on Whitecraigs who managed a good win over Hillhead Jordanhill on Saturday, this being one of only a handful of fixtures to escape the frost on Saturday.
The frost put paid to for all Biggar games at the weekend – both Saturday and Sunday - with the Colts the closest to playing, but their journey on Saturday to Portobello was a wasted one as the pitch, despite earlier optimism, proved to be too hard for anything other than a game of touch.

This weekend the focus shifts to the 6-Nations and the always eagerly awaited Calcutta Cup match between Scotland and England. There is a good deal of speculation as usual about the result with both sides having made many changes since their return from the World Cup last autumn.
Ex-Biggar man Scott Lawson is part of the Scotland squad and he is hopeful of being involved on Saturday although with hooker Ross Ford named as Scotland captain a starting place is unlikely.

There is still some action scheduled however with the S1 section managing to arrange an away fixture with Currie  and the U-15 section travelling on Sunday to play Portobello in the Edinburgh league.

EGM Update

At the EGM held last Monday, details of the minor additions and amendments to the constitution were provided to the members and were approved unanimously.
In addition Opportunity was taken to update members on the current situation with regard to grant applications and the proposed developments at Hartree Mill.
SportScotland: A Grant of £50k is currently in course from SportScotland. These funds will be used to create 4 new changing rooms and thus improve the facilities at the club, particularly with respect to the junior members in the Mini, Midi and Ladies sections by create individual changing rooms with dedicated showering facilities. The are several requirements attached to the grant before SportScotland will release funds which include a requirement to raise £20k in cash. In addition the members own time and expertise is recognised as providing some £40k of ‘input’ to the development giving a total of some £110k in all.
The next stage of the developments at Hartree Mill comprises converting the 3 existing changing rooms to 2 with their own dedicated showering, new toilets, improved disabled access to Clubhouse, improved car parking and improved drainage for pitches allowing for more use of the facilities at Hartree Mill particularly the need to use the Showfield and travel back to clubhouse for showers etc.
All the members present expressed their approval of these great opportunities for Biggar RFC and the whole community of Biggar and the surrounding area, recognizing that the raising of the initial £20k by April was key to the initial stage of the works proposed.

Match report 22nd January 2012

There was no 1st XV game on Saturday and so the spotlight fell on the 2nds and Colts XV’s both of whom were in action at the Showfield.
In bitterly cold and windy conditions all players and match officials deserve great credit for their efforts. The wind was so strong and biting that the Colts referee was unable to record the last two Biggar scores as his hands were numb and virtually unworkable!
The 2nd XV managed to get the better of their visitors from Musselburgh. In a close fought contest Biggar opened with an early score but couldn’t make their pressure tell, Musselburgh coming back to tie the scores with a first half try of their own.
The 7-7 score lasted until almost the death when, after both sides had kicked and missed penalties, Richard Peacock eventually notched the score which put Biggar ahead at 10-7. This was just enough and the win pushes the Biggar side into joint 4th spot in the RBS Reserve League Division 2. There are still 6 games to go however so things could get better still. Clear at the top and uncatchable are Aberdeen and Selkirk A who will deserve their promotion to Division 1.
The colts hosted Livingston U-18’s in the Edinburgh Regional Cup. Having put Ross High to the sword last week the boys were keen to maintain their top spot with a second victory. That they achieved with some ease, Livingston having a really difficult task in attempting to stem the tide as the wind swept play downfield in the first half. Things didn’t improve much after the break as Livi turned to get the benefit of the gale but by that time the home side were in control of proceedings and resolute in defence.
The Colts travel to face Portobello next week for what is their last cup game and with both the U-15’s and U-16’s also in action against the Edinburgh club on Sunday it will be interesting to see which club has the bragging rights come Sunday evening.

Sunday should have seen the S1 and U-16 sides in action at Dunfermline and Biggar respectively but with waterlogged pitches in Fife making play impossible and Cambuslang short of players neither game went ahead. Training was the order of the day instead.

Selkirk preview

This weekend sees the return of RBS Premier league C rugby with a visit from Border side Selkirk.
The game in September at Philliphaugh saw the Borderers triumph by the narrowest of margins at 23-22. The game this time round will see new coach Derek Armstrong in sole charge after taking over from Oz-bound Gary Parker.
Selkirk are virtually ‘safe’ as they currently lead the Premier C table and are clear of both 3rd and 2nd places. They will, nevertheless, be taking this game very seriously and as Biggar are in real need of points to ensure they play in the National league next season this promises to be a tough contest.
Kick off is 2pm and a large turnout would be very much appreciated.

Biggar Colts Report 21st January 2012

Biggar 46              Livingston 0

On a cold, wet and windy Showfield, the Colts played some excellent rugby to defeat Livinston by eight unanswered tries. It took just 10 minutes for them break through following an excellent burst into the line by full back Peter Millar. He drew the last man and with a well timed  pass to Graham Jamieson, put the winger in for a score in the corner. Five minutes later the ball was worked out to Graham Jamieson who made a great break up the wing before being tackled only 15m out from the line. The ball was recycled and after a couple of pick and go drives, Robbie Swan crashed over from 5 meters out. The third came from Paul  Davidson who took a pop pass at pace from Danny McGinn on the 22. He powered through a couple of would be tacklers for a good solo try. Just before half time Biggar were again pressing the Livingston line. When the ball popped out of the ruck, the ever alert Danny McGinn was first to react and scrambled over the line to give Biggar a 22-0 lead at half-time.

After 10 minutes, Biggar were again camped on the Livingston line, when eventually Zander Lyon picked up from the base of the ruck to drive over. Within a couple of minutes of that score, Mark Bertram beat two men in the centre and passed to Andrew Fleming on the wing who outpaced the cover to run in under the posts from 40m out. The wind and rain took a turn for the worse for a period of 10 minutes during which very little rugby was able to be played, but credit to the boys because when it eased back down they ran in two further tries. The first was a crash ball to Craig McDonald from the base of a ruck 5 meters out. Paul Davidson was then sin-brinned for a late tackle and despite being down to 14 men, they  were still able to score the final try of the game. Some good handling by the backs, released Andrew Fleming to score in the corer from 25 meters out. Craig McDonald converted two of the tries.

Another good day out by the Colts who are looking to beat Portobello next week which will see them progress into the Shield section of the Edinburgh Cup.

Biggar Colts Report 21st January 2012

Biggar 46              Livingston 0

On a cold, wet and windy Showfield, the Colts played some excellent rugby to defeat Livinston by eight unanswered tries. It took just 10 minutes for them break through following an excellent burst into the line by full back Peter Millar. He drew the last man and with a well timed  pass to Graham Jamieson, put the winger in for a score in the corner. Five minutes later the ball was worked out to Graham Jamieson who made a great break up the wing before being tackled only 15m out from the line. The ball was recycled and after a couple of pick and go drives, Robbie Swan crashed over from 5 meters out. The third came from Paul  Davidson who took a pop pass at pace from Danny McGinn on the 22. He powered through a couple of would be tacklers for a good solo try. Just before half time Biggar were again pressing the Livingston line. When the ball popped out of the ruck, the ever alert Danny McGinn was first to react and scrambled over the line to give Biggar a 22-0 lead at half-time.

After 10 minutes, Biggar were again camped on the Livingston line, when eventually Zander Lyon picked up from the base of the ruck to drive over. Within a couple of minutes of that score, Mark Bertram beat two men in the centre and passed to Andrew Fleming on the wing who outpaced the cover to run in under the posts from 40m out. The wind and rain took a turn for the worse for a period of 10 minutes during which very little rugby was able to be played, but credit to the boys because when it eased back down they ran in two further tries. The first was a crash ball to Craig McDonald from the base of a ruck 5 meters out. Paul Davidson was then sin-brinned for a late tackle and despite being down to 14 men, they  were still able to score the final try of the game. Some good handling by the backs, released Andrew Fleming to score in the corer from 25 meters out. Craig McDonald converted two of the tries.

Another good day out by the Colts who are looking to beat Portobello next week which will see them progress into the Shield section of the Edinburgh Cup.

2nds v musselburgh

The seconds are playing musselburgh at the showfield today. 2pm kick-off so come down to offer your support!

Also, due to Perthshire pulling out of the league, the seconds game against them next week has been cancelled.

2nds XV defeat Dalziel

Biggar 20 Dalziel 12 (check that score line for what was the 2nd XV's first game in 2012!!!)

It was a fine January day on Saturday when the 2nd XV re-started their league campaign. The game was a re-scheduled fixture with Dalziel, our local rivals. The league points were important but the bragging rights were equally important.
Dalziel kicked off playing towards the road; the ball was caught and immediately driven straight into the heart of the Dalziel defence. Biggar worked hard up the hill, attack after attack being thwarted by resilient Dalziel defence. The turning point was the continual infringements by the visitors around the breakdown, the referee eventually penalising Dalziel. Ali Dow stepped up to land the penalty but the ball slid past the upright and the chance of a lead was gone. Biggar were galvanised by their near miss and continued to pressure Dalziel, it became obvious that the referee would run out of patience and he did, one of the visitors was yellow carded. He was probably not the perpetrator but it was an accumulation of offences.
The penalty was 5 yards inside the Biggar half, up stepped, the returning Scott Watson, who coolly stroked the ball over the bar. Biggar 3, Dalziel 0 That was how the half would end. It looks on paper to have been a poor half but the endeavour and commitment shown by both sides made for excellent entertainment.
The second half kicked off with the same vim and vigour as had been shown in the first half both sides going at each other with gusto! It was Biggar who shone first with a confident switch move the ball passing through numerous pairs of hands for the flying winger Ali Dow to dive over in the corner, it was a brave decision as he dived the two covering defenders both tried to carry him down the high street. The try went un-converted.
Biggar again took the upper hand and again the referee felt the need to go to his pocket and card another Dalziel player. Biggar showed control and patience and then Stuart Moffat, playing with authority ghosted past the defence to score un-opposed, the conversion was missed, Biggar 13, Dalziel nil. Biggar were not done yet and the home side again pounded away at the Dalziel line and then Biggar un-leashed the flying winger again, when Ali Dow was on the end of great work from the whole team to dot down close to the posts. This time Scott Watson added the conversion Biggar 20 – Dalziel nil.
Dalziel were not going down easily, back to fifteen players and a couple of sage subs of a vintage that would suit a good Claret, Dalziel grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck and went after a bonus point or maybe the game that was the grit and determination they applied to their game. It has to be said that Biggar took their foot off the gas a bit! That does not detract from the Dalziel application; they drove straight at Biggar and found a weakness. The home side’s inability to go down on the ball when covering back, attempted one handed pick-ups, guddled snatches meant Dalziel capitalised on these mistakes and scored two quick fire tries and one conversion. The second try was well into stoppage time and the conversion would mean a bonus point for the visitors…… The kicker stepped up, made clean contact, Biggar had let the point slip….but no, the ball narrowly missing the upright, no bonus point for the visitors.
This was a creditable display for the first game of 2012 and would you believe it the score Biggar 20 Dalziel 12! An omen for the remainder of the season! The second team were a credit to themselves but they all agreed there was work to do during the week. The 2nd XV travel to Hamilton for another local derby this week, the hosts took the points at Hartreemill when the sides met earlier on in the season. It is up to Biggar to return the compliment down at Leigh Bent.

2nds V Hamilton

The 2nd XV had an encouraging win by 30-8 over local rivals Hamilton. This was a good result end evens things up after Hamilton took the honours in the game at Hartreemill earlier this season.
Biggar move up to 6th spot in the Reserve League Div 2.
Report to follow

Biggar Colts Report 14th January 2012

Ross High 7               Biggar 74

The Colts got their Edinburgh Cup campaign off to a flier with a thumping win at Ross High, when they ran in  eleven tries to Ross High's one. This was their first game since the 3rd December, but there was very little rustiness in their play. The forwards dominated in the scrum  and line-out and made huge inroads with their driving mauls and secured a lot of ball at rucks. Not to be outdone, the backs ran most of the ball and showed good running lines and support play to make the most of the ball. The try scorers were A Fleming (3), J Muir (2), D Began (2), M Bertram (2), R Swan (1), J Orr (1), Paul Davidson (1). P Miller converted six tries and C McDonald converted one.  The team was delighted for J Orr, making his comeback following his injury earlier in the season.

Burns Supper

The next major event on the social calendar is the very successful Burns Supper. This is scheduled for January 21st at the Municipal Hall and is a very popular event. Tickets are always in high demand so if you wish to secure yours, please contact GY. Names please before 14th January. Tickets are £25 per person and include the traditional Burns Supper, speeches, entertainment and ceilidh.

U-16 v Penicuik

The Under 16’s were in action and again many thanks to Richard Adams for this report.
Biggar U16 61 Penicuik U16 7
After the festive break Biggar travelled away to Penicuik to complete the league season. All thought that it would take a while to get back into the flow of rugby after such a long break but Biggar were also looking to put things right after their last outing ended in defeat.
The worry of too much Christmas dinner causing a lack of fitness and skill within the Biggar team were brushed away within seconds as the Penicuik kick off went straight into the hands of Graig Stewart who ran all the way to the try line but knocked on. This was a clear sign of things to come as Pencuik simply could not get out of their twenty two. After doing everything but score, Biggar did finally cross their opponent’s line through Ryan Anderson. The visitors continued their dominance with Scott Graham scoring moments later and completed their impressive start after a surging run from Grant Hamilton, giving the away side an early 19 point lead with Jack Warnock again kicking well.
The points stopped flowing as Pencuik seemed to wake from their Christmas hangover and despite better play from the home side, Biggar added seven more points to their tally when Richard Adams scored and Warnock again converted.
The game then heated up a bit. Pencuik attacked Biggar and pushed them back, taking the spring out the visitors step. Penalty after penalty was given away by Biggar and they were pinned back and it allowed the home team to get on the scoreboard with a converted try from a long throw at a line out close to the line.
Biggar replied though with a try of their own from Danny McAllister after a back move worked perfectly. The first half ended as Biggar made the score 40-7 at the break with another try, this time from Warnock. However, Biggar were accused of chatting back to the ref and captain Anderson  was put in the sin bin before the interval.
The second half was much the same as the first with Biggar knocking hard at the Penicuik door in hope of more tries. McAllister scored again, Steven Campbell got a try and William Cooper got his first Biggar try with a fine run down the wing. Warnock continued his fine kicking from 2011 to make the score look even more emphatic.
A good, comfortable win for Biggar who will likely finish in the top four in the league, meaning there will be tougher games to come but, nevertheless, a very fine start to 2012 for the Under 16s.

Colts Update for January 2011

ALL players are reminded that training commences on Thursday 5th January at the Clubhouse - if the venue has to be changed due to weather, the coaches will contact you by text.

The draw for the Edinburgh U-18 Shield/Plate Competition has been made and the Colts fixtures are:-

14th Jan away to Ross High

21st Jan home to Livingston

28th Jan away to Portobello

If we are first or second in our Group we go into the Shield, if we are third or fourth we go into the Plate.

Watsonians friendly

Watsonians 19 Biggar 29
These sides met on Saturday for what was the third time this season after Premier League and Edinburgh Regional Cup games.
In what was one of only a few games to beat the frosts – in sharp contrast to the Biggar pitches which were under a couple of inches of snow Edinburgh was a green oasis on Saturday and – Biggar made it two from three with a 5 try performance which will further boost confidence prior to the resumption of Premier league rugby in January. That this is at the moment the last scheduled game prior to league rugby is still a frustration though again the weather may well play a big part in what goes on. If at all possible Biggar will seek a friendly of some sort around the turn of the year and under floodlights if necessary – please check the website for details.
Biggar fielded a fairly standard selection save that Hata Wilbore started at stand-off in place of the unavailable Conor Lavery, and Richard Peacock started on the wing. Bob Aitken, who with Grant Owens recently returned from New Zealand, resumed at centre for Cameron Thomson who is another on Antipodean travels such is the smallness of our world!
In spectacular style Biggar opened strongly and after just 20 minutes found themselves 19-0 up. Tries were scored by No 8 Lewis McLachlan, Joe Scheres and Amo Wilbore with Craig Parker kicking two conversions.
Not surprisingly Watsonians came back into things and replied with points of their own to make the score at half time 19-12.
After the break the Edinburgh outfit reduced the deficit to just 4 points after a penalty but Biggar secured the game with two more tries, these from Craig Parker and Colin Arthur. Watsonians managed a second try of their own to make the final tally 29-19.
Biggar
A. Wilbore, C. Parker, J. Gardiner, B. Aitken, R. Peacock, H. Wilbore, I. Renwick, C. Arthur, K. Anderson, S. Faamausili, J. Harvey, A. Peacock, J. Scheres, C. Cochrane, L. McLachlan
Reps; D. Reive, M. Rutherford, G. Owens
To record another win against a side in Premier B is certainly good news and gives a great indication of what the side is capable of, the trick being to maintain this run of form into the New Year. Instrumental to that will be a continuation of the hard work currently being undertaken inside at Hyndshawland Farm Stables where the coaching duo of Gary Parker and Derek Armstrong are ensuring that fitness levels are kept high.

Colin Arthur plays for Scottish students

Scottish Students
While the majority of the 1st XV are struggling to get games and when training is hampered by severe weather one of their number is still hard at work on the training pitch and getting games to boot – prop Colin Arthur. Many congratulations to the youngster who was selected for Scottish Students in their game against Connacht A at Murrayfield on Friday past.
The Irish side proved too strong for the Scottish side however and ran out convincing winners.

 The side will play their next game against Scotland U-20's in March

Grand Winter Draw

Club News
Winter Draw : please keep selling your Raffle tickets for the Winter Draw.

This is a major fund-raiser, but only if you as members support the Draw by selling your allocation.

More tickets available if required.

Deadline for returns is Thursday 22nd December, which is also Draw night.

All welcome to attend.

U-15 and U-16 games this Sunday

Sundays U-15 and U-16 league games against Portobello both succumbed to water-logger pitches and this pretty much ends their rugby action for this year, training will resume in January.

Biggar Oldies v Peebles Oldies battle it out

Biggar Over 35’s 21 Peebles Over 35’s 0
With the 1st XV unable to fix up a friendly, the 2nd XV forced to postpone their trip to Aberdeen in the wake of the storms, and the Colts game against Hamilton cancelled due to a water-logged pitch, the Hartreemill faithful turned towards the club’s oldies for rugby action with near neighbours Peebles providing the opposition.
The Medwyn Valley Farms sponsored match ensured a healthy support in the clubhouse and on the touchline although the prospect of watching some of the veterans of both clubs strut their stuff led to a good number of inquisitive supporters.
Both clubs listed large 22 man squads but in the end Peebles were a little short-handed with just 16 managing the trip. That Biggar have a large number of Over-35’s turning out in the 3rd XV and that they were able to ring the changes at half time was undoubtedly a bonus as the sticky conditions took its toll on less-than-fresh legs.
Starting off at a cracking pace Peebles spent the first 20 minutes of the game camped in the Biggar half, but try as they did they could not find a way through the home defence although their handling at crucial times also let them down.
Despite their advancing years and the festive nature of the season this was a real rugby contest with many players resuming rivalries of 10, 15, 20 and possibly 25 years ago! There were players from both sides who were returning to the field for the first time this century (!) with Peebles’ oldest player being John Swanson. This honour in the home colours befell to Gordon Young who came on at half time. Both these gents featured in the front row where, despite their voluble assertions that they both out-scrummaged each other, honours were pretty well even. The lineouts invariably went against the put-in and loose play was typically feisty. Biggar edged ahead via their three-quarters who had better ball to play with and who used this well throughout, scrum half Denis Lavery - who played for Peebles for several years before joining Biggar - orchestrating play well.
With a half hour lapsed Biggar engineered an opening score from deep in their own half, centre Stuart Harrison who played alongside Peeblian Ian Cornwall as a youngster, making a huge breenge prior to passing to fellow centre (and joint match sponsor) Jim Wallace to touch down. As someone in his 50’s and who has kicked over 800 points for the club Lavery had little time for a modern kicking tee and in time honoured fashion dug a hole prior to stroking the ball over for a 7-0 lead.
A second score almost came after Biggar debutant and P5 coach Justin King scythed through the Peebles defence before visibly slowing, the supporting Malky Bruce eventually over running his winger and taking a forward pass.
Half time then and a deserved break for all with water and a gargle of port to warm the body in preparation for the second half.
Official referee John Jackson was given a few typically helpful hints from the touchline and far more most unhelpful advice throughout the contest, ensured that the game continued and all credit to him for his efforts which of course ensured that the game took place!
Peebles ran hard again at Biggar with Jim Currie and Jim Weir in typically combative mood but while their side possessed pace in fullback Keith Nisbet the ball was often too slow in getting to him and the Biggar cover mopped up his runs.

A hack downfield by Harrison led to Biggar’s second score, flanker Ewan McAlpine on hand to pick up and touch down for a well-deserved try. The third score went to Davy Ireland, the big man latching onto a tap penalty and proving unstoppable from 5 yards out. Lavery added conversions to both these tries for his sides 21 point tally.
With both sides tiring the boot was used more often - though neither the Willie Steel reverse punt or the Jim Currie cross-kick are ever likely to feature in any coaching manuals – until referee Jackson’s whistle brought an end to the action with handshakes and applause from all at the end of an excellent game.
Post match fare and craic was excellent with old friendships renewed and new ones kindled…..and to next year….could this be an annual event? The feedback from Saturday would suggest definitely YES. Watch this space!
Big thanks to GY and Jim Currie for putting the teams together, to Gemma and her team for staffing the bar, Carolyn and Jan for the tuck and to everyone else who made this a great CLUB day!
Biggar
G. Deere, S. Webster, D. Fleming, D. Ireland, N Wolfendene, R. Ramsay, R. Halley, E. McAlpine, D. Lavery, A. Tither, H. Dykes, S. Harrison, J. Wallace, J. King, M. Bruce, G. Young, J. Muir, W. Steel, S. Ward, A. Stewart, I. Barr.
Peebles
I. Cornwall, J. Swanson, J. Currie, J. Weir, S. Gray. G. Anderson, A. Cleghorn, S. Fox, S. Brockie, P. McBride, S. Taylor, N. McIvor, K. Gibson, A. Lament, K. Nisbet, A Moffat.

2nds v Aberdeen Cancelled

The seconds game against Aberdeen on Saturday has been cancelled.

Over 35s v Peebles!

This Saturday! (10/12/11) If you fancy watching a rugby game played ‘live, but in slow motion’ then Hartreemill is the place for you this Saturday as Biggar and Peebles Over-35’s do battle. Both clubs have dusted off their ‘finest’, training has been rigourous (?) and players are now honed to perfection in anticipation of this mighty clash! Kick off 2pm. Can you afford to miss this one?

U15s v Gala and U16s v Dunbar - 4/12/11

On Sunday, while the Mini and S1 and S2 games were all postponed the U-15 and U-16 sides managed to atke the field – cold though it undoubtedly was!
The U-15’s travlled to Gala in their league game. In the corresponding fixture last season and coincidentally in similalrly bleak conditions, Biggar were on the wrong end of a thumping. Comfidence has been growing however and although they still lost out, this group of players are to be commended on their efforts, the pack in particular rucking well and producing some great ball. Gala managed 3 good tries in the first half and a 4th early in the second but Biggar replied with 2 scores of their own. Mark Ewart and Richard Morgan got the Biggar tries.
Portobello is their detination next Sunday for the last league game prior to the Christmas break.

Biggar fail to tackle Dunbar challenge : Richard Adams
 

Dunbar U16           49  Biggar U16            45

With the league coming to an end, Biggar had three games left, including this Sunday’s trek to Dunbar. Biggar’s opponents were like a bag of liquorice allsorts, with their results being good, bad and indifferent so Biggar were again going to have to perform to keep the chase for second place alive.
With snow sprinkled across the ground in Biggar and the surrounding area in the morning, prospects of play seemed very low but past Edinburgh, the snow disappeared. Once arriving in Dunbar, the sun was shining and no snow in sight on a cold December morning near the East coast of Scotland. The hosts seemed up for the game with them training before half the Biggar squad had arrived, proving that Biggar should not have been complacent thinking that this game would be a walk over.
The game began and Biggar seemed to be still in their beds dreaming of a white Christmas with their tackling absent. Dunbar went over for a try. This should have been the wake-up call Biggar needed but it didn’t seem to be with again Dunbar breaking tackles and increasing the lead to ten very quickly, with both conversions missed.
Biggar finally got a grip of themselves and started to get pumped up for the match realising that this game was not going to be a walk in the park. Danny McAllister got a try back for the visitors, hoping to kick-start the revival but the try seemed to have the opposite effect, with the home side immediately adding five more points to their tally.
Biggar were struggling. The game seemed to be running away from them and they were unable to get a foothold in the game. Dunbar were winning the ball from every ruck, consistently ripping the ball out of tackles and offloading the ball well. This combined with Biggar missing tackles on a regular basis meant another try to the home side, increasing the lead to thirteen.
The nightmare first half continued. Biggar just couldn’t get anytime on the ball and when they had possession, Dunbar tackled everything and rucked really well, legal or not is debatable.

Biggar, on the other hand , were struggling to tackle anything and after another surge from Dunbar, they scored another five points in the corner. The hole Biggar were in was getting deeper and deeper. Heads seemed to be going now. There was moaning and bickering with the opposition and between themselves becoming almost as common as missed tackles from the visitors.
When another try was scored by a rampant Dunbar, the score was 32-7. Biggar were facing a mammoth challenge now to just get back into this game. With the knowledge this was a win or bust game, Biggar came out fighting and hit back after pressure in the home half resulted in Ryan Anderson crashing over from short range. And on the brink of half time, Biggar had something to shout about. Relentless pressure on the opponent’s tryline eventually ended in McAllister scoring in the left hand corner after a quick tap penalty. Jack Warnock added the extras with a brilliant kick, giving Biggar some hope with the score at 32-21 to the home side at the interval.
The break had come at the wrong time for Biggar however as they were on the front foot and Dunbar came out of the blocks quickly for the second half as Biggar dozed again. The home side scored an early second half try under the uprights after more poor tackling from the Biggar boys. This try was the first to be converted by Dunbar and made the lead eighteen points.
Biggar needed to act quickly and pushed the consistently offside Dunbar back line towards their own tryline. The continuous search for gaps in the home teams defence finally paid off when Biggar shipped it wide and scored in the corner. Warnock supplied yet another superb conversation, reducing the gap. The comeback then was well and truly on as Biggar added another try from Anderson wide left after more banging at the door. Warnock missed the kick but Biggar were now in striking distance.
Then a minute of madness.
The score was 39-33 but in the blink of an eye it was 49-33. Dunbar ripped the ball off Biggar  almost immediately from the kick off and scored. Only seconds later from Biggar’s restart, they collected the ball, passed it to their winger and he ran up the wing and over for another try. All of Biggar’s hard work was undone. Tackling, or lack of, once again being a main culprit for this shocking period.
Biggar fought back through a quick penalty in their twenty two, good hands feeding ball to Graham, who had been denied what seemed a perfectly good try earlier, cutting inside, scoring and leaving an easy conversion. 49-40. Nine points in it.
With time ticking away, Biggar mounted another charge at the Dunbar line. Both teams worked tirelessly but Dunbar cracked under the wave of Biggar pressure and Richard Adams got  the try Biggar needed. Warnock missed the conversion from out wide but if it hadn’t been for his fantastic performance with the boot, Biggar wouldn’t have even been close to Dunbar.
With four points in it, it was the final play. Dunbar deliberately kicked the kick off  straight out. The referee, unsure of what to do, asked around. Was it full time? Was it Biggar’s ball? After a few members of crowd and coaching staff were asked, the ref decided on a scrum at halfway to Biggar. This farce seemed pointless as Biggar lost the scrum, Dunbar booted the ball into touch and the game was now officially over.

A loss for Biggar is a bitter pill to swallow. It is going to be a struggle now to reach third place and second is almost impossible. Dunbar played well but Biggar will rue the vast amounts of missed tackles. Only two games remain for Biggar, who now need to hang on to get a top four finish and a place in the national cup.

Glasgow Hawks 24 Biggar 19 - 3/12/11

Glasgow Hawks 24 Biggar 19
With both Premiership and Cup competitions in abeyance until the New Year, Biggar had a back up friendly game with Premier 1 side Glasgow Hawks at New Anniesland in Glasgow.
The Glasgow side have not had a great season to date and contemplate a vital series of Premier B games in the New Year to secure their Premiership future and to stave off relegation. As a Premier 1 side however they provided a tough challenge. Biggar on the back of two great performances against Stewarts Melville and Watsonians travelled with some confidence although midweek training was virtually written off after the rains.
Biggar featured their customary XV but with Davy Reive opening at scrum half, and Iain Renwick on the wing while Lewis McLachlan opened at No 8. The forwards were without their recognised lineout pairing of Andrew Cairns and Grant Owens and this undoubtedly proved to be a factor in their performance.
In addition it took the Premier 2 side a full half hour to realise that they were in a game that they could win, two costly early errors gifting their hosts a couple of tries and which forced Biggar to play catch up. Well though they managed this, their challenge fell short to give the Glasgow outfit the honours.
Winger Tom Steven was the main beneficiary of these errors as he crossed for two tries, one of which was converted by Mike Martin to give the Glasgow side a 12-0 lead.
Biggar are not without a good deal of spirit however and a score from Hata Wilbore gave them a lift. This try came after Biggar ran the ball through the hands, a tactic which worked well and which threatened the Hawks line on every occasion. Conor Lavery fed wide to Amo Wilbore who in turn passed to his brother, the centre making a great break to cross from some 25 metres. Craig Parker converted for 12-7, this the halftime score.
The same Wilbore brother scored a second try on the restart to take the scores level at 12-12 but Hawks replied with a sustained period of power play to put Biggar under the cosh. While Biggar defended stoically there was a certain inevitability that their line would eventually be breached, this coming as Steven crossed for his hat-trick. At 17-12 there was still nothing in the game although another period of pressure saw Hawks increase their lead with a try after Biggar ceded possession in their 22. Hawks looked to their pack to take possession towards the Biggar line and this they did well before taking the ball over the line for a forwards try, the scorer buried under pile of bodies and therefore unrecognisable. Martin added the conversion to put Hawks ahead by 24-12.
Happily Biggar came back into things again and managed a third try of their own, the credited to Renwick who slid in at the corner. Parker’s excellent touchline conversion took Biggar to within just one score of victory but time ran out for them and they had to settle for second place.
A worthwhile run out however, and with just one game scheduled at present – this to Watsons (again) in a fortnight - before the resumption of Premier games in January, a vital one to boot.
Biggar
A. Wilbore, C. Parker, J. Gardiner, H. Wilbore, I. Renwick, C. Lavery, D. Reive, C. Arthur, M. Rutherford, S. Faamausili, J. Harvey, A. Peacock, J. Scheres, C. Cochrane, L. McLachlan
Reps; K. Anderson, E. Sanderson, R. Peacock.

Biggar Colts Report 2nd December 2011

Haddington 19                      Biggar  15 

In their final game in the league, the Colts traveled to Haddington confident of a win. However, a stronger Haddington team and slightly under par performance by Biggar resulted in a win for Haddington. Biggar’s first try came from quick ruck ball straight to Craig McDonald who crashed over from short range. A good break by Andrew Fleming made a huge hole in the Haddington defence, he presented the ball to Robbie Swan who picked up and drove over the line. The final try came from some good interplay and offloading by the backs, with the final pass going to Robbie Swan to score in the corner.
In the final 5 minutes, Biggar thought that they had secured the win with an excellent catch and drive from a 5m lineout. With secure front ball at the front of the lineout, they drove over the line and touched down with about 5 Biggar players on top of the ball. However, the referee advised that he could not see the ball and disallowed the try. With the Colts still annoyed at this decision, Haddington scored in the final minute to win the game.

U15s and U16s v Haddington - 27/11/11

Sunday’s programme was severely curtailed following the rain of the previous day and night, the Minis, S1 and S2 games all being cancelled.
Those games which did survive were the u-15’s and U-16’s who both entertained Haddington, and many thanks to the East Lothian club for agreeing to arrive and kick off earlier than had been scheduled, this as there was only the one playable pitch in Biggar.

The U-15’s were on the same number of league points as Haddington prior to kick off and both sides felt that given their previous results this would be an evenly matched contest.
That this was not particularly the case was down to a growing confidence within the Biggar camp.
The pack is now beginning to set back good ball consistently which not only puts their opponents on the back foot but importantly gives scrum half James Barr and the three-quarters a little extra time. Their handling is again developing and with a good combination of guile and strength, things are beginning to come good. This then all contributed to Biggar U-15’s second win in the league, and there was justifiable pleasure with it.
An opening try was credited to Liam Black who plunged through the Haddington defence and although there was some good fortune in Simon Denholms score (a suspicion of a knock on perhaps), it was nonetheless deserved as he chased a kick from Gregor Stewart. Stewart kicked conversions to both of these tries but was off target to the sides 3rd score, this from Robert Hall whose strong direct running gains lots of yards.
Turning round to play with the elements Biggar exerted further pressure to score 2 more tries one from Jamie Campbell and a second for Hall.

This was a very much-deserved win and suggests that with 3 league games remaining there is every chance of finishing the league on a real high.
Congratulations to all!

Biggar put up fighting performance against hostile Haddington (Richard Adams)

Biggar U16 s   52    Haddington U16s   0
After a comfortable win last week, Biggar were back to league duties this week with a home match against Haddington. Biggar, after a blank weekend, had dropped to sixth in the league but would climb back into second if both games they have in hand were won. Haddington sat fifth with no games in hand, indicating that Biggar would have to play well to be credited with a win.
The game began and what seemed only moments after the whistle had blown for the start of play, Danny McAllister scored. Biggar had attacked from the word go leaving the visitors stunned . Jack Warnock kicked the conversion, giving Biggar a seven point lead.
The visitors, who were playing downhill and with the wind on a blustery day at The Showfield , decided the boot would be the best way to keep Biggar in their own half. This seemed to be working, with Biggar making mistakes in the cold conditions. Biggar did, however, still look very dangerous on the ball and their strong running led to another try with Ryan Anderson scoring. There was an unfortunate clash between the two teams but it seemed like only a bit of handbags. And compared with what was to come, it was.
Haddington again got back into the Biggar half, camping in the twenty two. But again, Biggar were always able to make yards, missed tackles being a key feature of the visitors’ game and allowing  Biggar to score a 3rd try as Richard Adams crossed the line , this giving the hosts a commanding lead.
Biggar upped the tempo thereafter and it was their turn to spend  time in the opponent’s twenty two. Haddington didn’t like this one bit and, when Anderson was bundled into touch near the tryline, a fight broke out. They were very ugly scenes with rugby forgotten. Anderson was sent off for his part in the brawl but many players could have been off for the part they played in the clash.
Seconds later, McAllister appeared to score in the corner from the resulting lineout, but no try was awarded, this seeing another full on wrestling match takeplace.
Referee Ian McKeand, who handled both situations very well, called in the coaches, the teams went to opposite ends of the pitch and, after a five minute cool down, play got back under way and no repeat took place for the rest of the match.
Biggar maintained their dominance and added another try just before the interval when a quick tap from a penalty from five metres out, gave them a 26 point lead at the break.
The start of the second half was almost parallel to the start of the first but this time with Craig Stewart getting the early try. Biggar were in command and didn’t show signs of stopping.

McAllister scored again after a powerful run from just inside the opponents half, giving the home side a forty point lead. Warnock  was again kicking very well, only missing two conversions in the match in the wintry, windy conditions.
Warnock then got a try of his own, with the Haddington side wishing the full time whistle to blow to stop the constant Biggar assault. The scoring was complete after Aird Jardine sent a kick over the Haddington back line and chased down the full back. He slipped on the wet turf and Jardine glided over the line. Warnock missed the conversion and the final score was 57-0 to Biggar.
Despite the moments of indiscipline, this was another fine result and performance from Biggar. The result is unlikely to affect their league position unless other results go their way but, with further  victories,  second place in the league is still very much achievable!

Biggar 27 Watsonians 14 - 1s cup game

26/11/11

Biggar won this game and with it their Edinburgh Regional Pool which comprised of themselves Stew-Mel and Watsonians. As winners they now await the draw for the next round of the competition, which is scheduled for January 21st.
In extremely challenging conditions everyone involved on Saturday, the teams, officials and spectators all deserve great credit for their efforts, the wind and rain which swept the length of the Hartreemill pitch for the bulk of the first half reducing brollies to tatters and penetrating the most waterproof of clothing.
That the players all came off the park with big smiles on their faces is testament to the enjoyment they got from the game – or was it just relief that they were at last bound for the warmth of the shower?
Biggar made a few of changes with Cameron Thomson unavailable and Bob Aitken and Grant Owens on their Antipodean travels. Twins Amo and Hata Wilbore resumed their promising partnership while Michael McKeand and Douglas Notman returned to the starting XV. The postponement of the 2nd XV game meant that the bench was strengthened with the inclusion of veteran Stuart Harrison and youngster Ewan Sanderson.
Having won the toss Watsons elected to play with the elements presumably believing that they would be able to open up and then defend a half time lead. Biggar however had very different thoughts and opened really strongly, their desire to run the ball evident from the outset as penalties were tapped and run whenever possible putting the visitors on the back foot and leading to territorial gain.  .
This tactic was always prone to error however and so it proved a dropped pass in midfield leading to a kick and chase to the Biggar 22. The initial surge from this position seemed to have been stalled as Conor Lavery won a turnover but as quickly as ball was won so it was lost as it was squeezed out of the ruck, Watsons scrum half Brian Walls who again looked in fine form giving a simple pass to centre and ex-Biggar man Douglas Brown who romped over for an early score. Walls converted the try for 7-0.
There was little worry however as the conditions suggested that the bulk of the play would be in front of the clubhouse. That this was not in fact the case is a tribute to the efforts of the Biggar pack who raised their game and set ball back time and again and had Watsons on the back foot. In their efforts to contain the Biggar onslaught Watsons conceded a host of penalties and while referee Ireland warned the visiting skipper there could have as easily been a yellow card issued as the penalty count rose.
Another foray into the Biggar 22 from a kick forward saw fullback Wilbore gather and prepare to kick. That he delayed a fraction gave the supporting Watsons backs the chance to charge down the attempted clearance, centre Tom Hart gathering the loose ball to plunge over for a second try. Walls kicked for 14-0. This score came with just 5 minutes remaining on the clock and at that Biggar would probably have been quite happy but the half was rounded off in classic style as Biggar took play deep into the Watsons 22 courtesy of a couple of free kicks. Amo Wilbore advanced play with a mazy run before off-loading to Lavery. While the stand-offs progress was halted the ball was fed to flanker Joe Scheres who nipped through the Watsons defence for an excellent score under the

posts. The Kiwi was doubly chuffed with this effort as his family, who have been on a European ‘tour’ and who arrived last week to help him celebrate his 21st birthday, were on hand to witness the try. Craig Parkers conversion brought the half to an end with Biggar just one score behind.
The players took refuge from the storm in the clubhouse while the officials enjoyed a cup of tea in the tea rooms, referee Ireland remarking that in addition to the ‘customary earache’ he received at the hands of the support, he was finding his 'non-miced' ear a trifle sore from the gale!
Biggar took the sensible option at the break of changing strips and there can be little doubt, even as the rain stopped, that this made a contribution to their play. Would Biggar be able to reduce the gap however, or would Watsons, as they had just three weeks ago in the Prem 2 game, come storming out of the traps to effectively seal the win?
Happily for Biggar it was the first scenario which  came to fruition an early penalty from Parker reducing the visitors lead to just 3. Biggar almost took the lead after 10 minutes when a neat chip over the Watsons defence was all but gathered by Lavery who had read the play well, the ball just failing to stick at the first, second and indeed third attempt.
While Watsons survived that attempt a Biggar score was merely delayed. A rushed Watsons clearance was kept in play after a neat tap down by Parker, the ball finding Lavery whose neat off-load was taken by a charging Suti Faamausili. The big prop slid over for a try which parker converted for 17-14 and the lead.
With their tails up Biggar extended their lead just minutes later as a penalty was kicked deep in the visitors 22. a great take from Josh Harvey was advanced via a dynamic line drive, the lock touching down for a try again converted by Parker. At 22-14 Watsons now required two scores to reclaim the lead. Their option to pick and drive proved very successful in terms of yards gained, but as had been the case when Biggar lost control in the first half, any loose ball was summarily dispatched to the other end of the park with the Biggar chasers in hot pursuit. In addition the very competent and committed Biggar defence meant that whatever pressure the visitors exerted, they were brought to ground, EVERY Biggar players doing their bit in this department.
The coup de gras and bonus point winning try came with just 3 minutes on the clock and, fittingly after a very good performance, it was Parker who scored the try. A defensive hack clear from Watsons to their 10 m line was gathered by the winger who promptly set off on an arcing run. This was initially met with some derision from the home support – after all, forward is always better than across! Well not always apparently as Parker straightened up and then produced two stunning hand offs which took him round the Watsons defence and over in the corner. His conversion attempt didn’t really matter, as referee Ireland, who must have had great difficulty in differentiating the players in the glaur towards the end, brought the contest to a close minutes later.
Biggar
A. Wilbore, C. Parker, J. Gardiner, H. Wilbore, M. McKeand, C. Lavery, I. Renwick, C. Arthur, K. Anderson, S. Faamausili, J. Harvey, A. Peacock, J. Scheres, C. Cochrane, D. Notman
Reps; D. Reive, E. Sanderson, S. Harrison, E. McAlpine

Departing coach Gary Parker was again delighted by the performance and believes the steady improvements in play can be traced back to the second half of the Peebles game when after a dismal first half Biggar came back strongly.

That the side now has just two friendly games prior to the resumption of Premiership rugby on 14th January – against Glasgow Hawks this Saturday (3rd December) and Watsons (yes….again!, on 17th December) - is a huge frustration to all.

Biggar Colts Report 26th November

Biggar 0        Boroughmuir 7

On a very wet and windy Showfield, the Colts lost narrowly to Boroughmuir in what was effectively the league decider.In a very even game, neither team gained any sort of superiority in any area throughout the game. As expected, it was a forward dominated game with the scrums being even, Boroughmuir on top at lineouts and Biggar on top at the driving rucks and mauls. Boroughmuirs score came midway through the second half when a forward broke through the middle of a ruck - the only time that the Biggar defence was posted missing.

The Colts can be proud of the display as they have continued to progress through the season and contest all game with all of the main Edinburgh teams. Their final league game is next week at Haddington and a win will place them 3rd in the league.

Derek Armstrong to take over

On the coaching front and following the resignation of coach Gary Parker, Hawick man Derek Armstrong will take charge of the side with Gary in a ‘handover’ period before taking the side through the remainder of this season. Deke has had a long association with Biggar having been a player and then coach with Eday Manawaiti and knows the club and its players well. His first spell as coach came coincidentally after Gary left the club in season 2006-7.
Having had valuable experience as coach to Hawick in the interim, Biggar RFC is delighted Deke is able to take over with the handover period also a massive bonus as the two men will work to make the transition as clean and seamless as it can be.

Biggar 99 Preston Lodge 7 - U16s 20/11/11

A Biggar blitz (Richard Adams)
Biggar U16  99 Preston Lodge U16  7
Biggar only had a friendly this week as they had a break in the league fixtures. However, Preston Lodge were in the same league but had forfeited the scheduled match earlier in the season due to lack of players and Biggar wanted to keep up their momentum.
Not having enough players was again an issue for the visitors as they had only travelled with 11 men. This resulted in a compromise to the normal laws of rugby at this age with it turning into a 13 a side affair with Peter Struthers and Grant Hamilton offering their services to the other side.
The game kicked off and immediately it was clear this was going to be a very one sided affair with Graham running in two early tries. The tries continued to flood in throughout the first half through Warnock. Campbell, McAllister, Anderson and McCarry.  This was all a bit dull but the Preston Lodge No 8 thought he’d given the crowd something to talk about. After Warnock had passed the ball, he put in a late Sam Warburton style tackle on Warnock. The result of this was a sin bin to the Preston Lodge player, not a red like Warburton received. And unlike Warburton’s, this was probably not going to effect the outcome of the game.
With Preston Lodge’s player storming off, Biggar sacrificed another player to the opponents. This time in the form of Kevin McCarry. The second half continued in similar vein with the continuous try scoring of Biggar with Jardine, Cullen and more from Graham, McAllister and Anderson.
Preston Lodge did muster a try of their own and although it was Hamilton that scored for the visitors, it was a try none the less.
The game finished with Biggar just one point off triple figures, a good clinical performance from the team. The league fixtures are back next week with Biggar playing host to Haddington and looking to get into second place.

Stewarts Melville 19 Biggar 27 - 19/11/11

Stewarts Melville 19 Biggar 27

Biggar journeyed to Stewarts Melville for their first Edinburgh Regional Cup game against an Edinburgh side which has been beaten just twice this season and that by the same team, their near neighbours Watsonians.
Having lost their first Cup game last week Stew-Mel were effectively out of the competition as courtesy of a ludicrous cup programme of 3 teams and just 2 games (when there are 7 free Saturdays available) only the top side progresses to the next round. As such there were several changes in the Edinburgh XV but equally there were 6 changes from the Biggar XV which hosted Stew-Mel at Hartreemill back in September. Lewis McLachlan made a welcome return to top team action, at No 8 no less, this after a number of promising performances for the 2nd XV and of course following the long lay off while he recuperated from a series of shoulder problems.
Most pleasingly the Biggar outfit played some of their best rugby of the season to date, handling ball well and at great pace to put their hosts under real pressure from the opening shots. Not that the game was one-sided as Stew-Mel also opened up whenever they could using ball effectively as well to provide a very open, entertaining game.
Andrew Peacock, Joe Scheres, Hata Wilbore (2) and Craig Parker all crossed for tries with Parker notching one conversion to complete the Biggar tally.
Biggar
A. Wilbore, C. Parker, J. Gardiner, C. Thomson, H. Wilbore, C. Lavery, I. Renwick, A. Peacock, K. Anderson, S. Faamausili, J. Harvey, G. Owens, J. Scheres, C. Cochrane, L. McLachlan
Reps; D. Reive, R. Aitken, E. McAlpine

This win sets Biggar up nicely for next weeks game against Watsonians with, of course, the winner progressing to the next round of the Edinburgh Cup. It was Watsonians who Biggar played in their last league game a fortnight ago and Biggar supporters will soon be quite familiar with the players from both these Edinburgh sides as ‘friendly’ games have been organised with both to help keep players on the go during this prolonged mid-season break.
Fixture Secretary John Jackson has been involved in endless phone calls to try to fill in the blank Saturdays but with each Region (West, Edinburgh, Borders and Caledonia) operating different systems for their own Cup competitions there are precious few clubs available to play.
The league clash with Watsonians was a good entertaining game and the return fixture at Hartreemill promises to be much the same with, of course, the added prize of a continued Cup run adding spice to the contest. Kick off is 2pm so all spectators are encouraged to turn out to cheer the Biggar lads on.

Biggar Colts Report 19th November

Biggar   34  Edinburgh BATS   5 

Edinburgh BATS turned up with no front row, so the entire game was played with uncontested scrums; the Colts pack were disappointed as they believed that they would have been able to dominate this area. Graham Jamieson returned to the wing and opened up his account within two minutes of the start. Good pressure on BATS in their own 22 resulted in turnover ball from a good ruck which was passed through the hands for Graham to score in the corner. The second try came shortly after some good offloading out of tackles before the last pass to Danny Began to score in the corner. Biggar continued to pressurize BATS in their own half and a loose pass was picked up by Graham Jamieson on the 22 and then run in for a simple try which Craig McDonald converted. The final score of the half came from a tap penalty on the 22 which was driven into the heart of the BATS defence. From the ruck the ball was popped to the blind side for Stephen Campbell to crash over from five metres to give Biggar a 22-0 lead at half time.

Biggar started strongly again and with a move started in their own half with good running angles and offloads the ball eventually got to Andrew Fleming to score in the corner. Unfortunately with the game won, it became very loose and fragmented, with both sides infringing leading to a very stop/start period. With five minutes to go, Biggar set up set driving rucks to take them to within five meters of the line. The final pick up was by Gavin Parker who dived over the line to score, the try was converted by Graham Jamieson. Although the defence had been good throughout, a breakaway by BATS in the final minute allowed them to get a score on the board.

The team was delighted to see Alexander Lyon back on the pitch for his first run out since picking up a knee injury in the preseason games.

CommonHealth Games at Biggar High School

At the start of the school year Biggar RFC and the High School hoped to establish a School of Rugby in Biggar for numerous reasons the project didnt recieve the funding from the SRU, However the obvious benifits to the club were evident and they pursued the project by use of Andy Tither the newly appointed Development Officer. Andy was allowed corriculum time access to every S1 pupil at the school for a 40 minute period every week for 6 weeks

After that period the pupils had the option to choose between Hockey, Footbal or Rugby up until the end of November. Of the 120 pupils in S1 a remarkable 45 boys and 37 girls chose rugby. Training progressed to contact sessions scrums and lineouts were introduced along with tackle techniques and conditioned contact games.

The culmination and fruits of all the development teams labours was illustrated to great effect with a 13 a side boys House competition and more impressively the  very first 10 a side girls competion into Biggar High Schools CommonHealth Games. A great day was had by all and several S1#s brand new to the game have emerged at Hartreemill

It is hoped that the girls will follow the path of last year U15 girls and also come down to the club. S1 girls training will be taking place at the Club from now on at 4.00pm on Monday nights

Pictures To Follow

Coaches Meeting 28th November

This is just a reminder for all Youth Coaches. Please check your emails in respect of season plans and lets move forward to a succesfull New Year.

At least one representative from each age group would be fantastic

Andy Tither   Rugby Development Officer Biggar RFC coaching@vikingrugby.co.uk 07898 800911

U-16’s Boroughmuir

Following last Sunday's epic U-16 clash between Biggar and Boroughmuir - read Richard Adams excellent report on the Midi page - Aird received an e-mail from Boroughmuir coach David Ladd. Well done boys!

Hi Aird

Can you please pass on my regards to your team and coaches. Sunday was an enjoyable day (mostly). It was hard fought and one of the best games of rugby we have had the pleasure to play this season. Your players are a credit to the club. I suspect your team will be disapointed by the draw after playing so well. I hope circumstances will allow a friendly at some point later in the year.

Regards

David

IRB Rugby Ready Course 6.30pm Monday 5th December

In order to offer a local opportunity to catch up with your Rugby Ready Certification I plan to hold another Rugby Ready Practical at Biggar Rugby Club 6.30pm - 9.30pm 5th December 2011.  I am aware that some of you have attended courses elsewhere and there are others of you who are unaware that ALL COACHES working at whatever level in Scotland must complete a rugby ready course every year. ( please see link )

http://www.scottishrugby.org/community/content/view/2403/599/


I you are unable to attend on the date above can you please make sure that you attend at another venue if possible prior to Christmas. There is no cost for the course and it up dates you on the themes that Scottish rugby are focussing on for the season.

If you can sign up for the course online using the following link so that I can order sufficient resources I would be really grateful.

http://www.scottishrugby.org/community/index.php?option=com_chronocontact&chronoformname=rugbyready&Itemid=353

If you require further information dont hesitate to give me a call. It also helps with planning if you register online at the link above

Andy Tither Rugby Development Officer Biggar RFC coaching@vikingrugby.co.uk or 07898 800911

Midi Report 13/11/11

On Sunday Boroughmuir provided the opposition at U-15 and U-16 level.
Following on from their great win last Sunday Biggar’s U-15 squad was looking to make further strides as they hosted a useful Boroughmuir outfit who have had a good season to date and who occupy 4th spot in the U-15 league.
Unfortunately while this was a fantastic opportunity to really build on the advances made recently Biggar had just 16 players available. Having said that please not the term ‘only’, as at the start of the season to have had 16 would have been a real bonus!
Biggar handled the opening salvos from Boroughmuir pretty well with much more shape evident in their play. The Biggar defence was tested but Biggar also managed to test their visitors defence with a  couple of forays deep into the B’muir half.
Boroughmuir were all, as expected, strong runners and able to play a deft handling game. This eventually paid off as a break from their 22 led to a score which in all truth was against the run of play.
This was much the case for the half, Biggar putting their visitors under pressure and onto a defensive role prior to making a half break and taking play back to the Biggar line. The visitors scored another 3 tries which took the game to half time.
Play was quite similar for the bulk of the half with Biggar often on the attack but unable to get the ball across the line.
B’muir ran in 3 tries in this spell before, with what were the final minutes of the game, a penalty was won on the B’muir 22 m line. A couple of passes later and winger William Greive was sent to the line for an excellent and ver well deserved score.
This Sunday is a ‘free’ Sunday for the Youth sections.

A battle without loss
Biggar U16                    34 Boroughmuir U16        34
The Biggar U16’s have had tough games from week one in this Edinburgh league but  have come through most with very good performances and good wins ,but their opponents, Boroughmuir, had played equally as well if league position was to go by. Biggar and Boroughmuir were joint third going into this match and both having games in hand on second place, making this game a real winner-takes-all contest.    

The weather was again as nice as it can be in Biggar at this time of year, possibly the reason for the rather large crowd from both sides that had made their way to the Showfield.
The game kicked off with both teams knowing how big a game this was. The early encounters showed this with mistakes and good defence from the two teams. It was a case of who was going to crack first.
Unfortunately for the home crowd, it was Biggar. A missed tackle in the midfield allowed Boroughmuir to break and score the first try of the match after a good run and support play down the right hand side. The conversion was missed giving the visitors a 5-0 lead.
This didn’t last long though as Biggar bounced back almost immediately. Biggar played rugby in the opposition half and after great offloading from the home team, they spun it wide to Graham, who went over to score, Warnock's conversion giving Biggar a narrow lead.
It was Boroughmuir’s turn to respond. They got the chance to mount an attack after a great restart gave them the ball in a good position. Biggar defended well but, whenever they got possession of the ball, they were unable to clear their lines successfully. Despite this, Boroughmuir were unable to create big gaps in the Biggar defence so a rather hopeful kick was stabbed through which Jardine ran back to put down ahead of the oncoming Boroughmuir player.
Queue some controversy.
Jardine appeared to put the ball down over his own line, giving Biggar a twenty two drop out. The ball bobbled away however and the Boroughmuir player dived on it and a try was awarded. Was there downward pressure from Jardine? Was the referee unsighted? Only a TV replay would show for sure what had happened but Biggar don’t quite have the technology to give the ref the luxury to watch the replay.
With this bizarre moment in the past, Biggar came back at Boroughmuir and scored a try of their own after a period of time in the opponent’s twenty two when Adams ploughed over from five yards after constant penalties were being given away by the travelling team.
Boroughmuir were again straight back at Biggar in what was becoming a very open and end to end game of rugby. Biggar struggled to gain territory under this pressure and good rucking from Boroughmuir kept the rural team on the back foot. Boroughmuir scored after more good forward work and then spinning the ball wide with the created overlap, making it 14-17 to Boroughmuir after two missed conversations.
Warnock got an important penalty with the last kick before the half time break. This came from a high tackle and when the game turned ugly moments  when a little bit of a “misunderstanding” between the two set of players turned into a bit of pushing and shoving. Tensions were bound to boil over with this being such an important match.
Half time came and went with the crowd wondering which way this game would swing next. The answer was to Biggar as, early on in the half, McAllister saw a gap between two players and went

through it with ease and strolled his way to the line. Warnock’s great kicking continued and his conversation gave Biggar a seven point lead.
This soon disappeared though with Boroughmuir going under the posts for a converted try to level things up once again. This constant replying from both teams was becoming a main feature, with neither team able to get clear daylight between themselves and their opposition.
This point was again true with Biggar going on the attack and getting a try to regain the lead after quick thinking from Campbell with a tap penalty which allowed him to power his way over, restoring the seven point lead with Warnock once again adding the extras.
Biggar looked like they may be the ones that would take the game by the scruff of the neck and score the killer try but, despite territory and possession for the home side, a knock on lead to Boroughmuir spinning the ball wide to their winger who ran into the open space down the left and touched down. The conversion was missed however so Biggar still had the slimmest of leads.
Biggar didn’t feel sorry for themselves and managed to win another penalty in kickable range. Warnock, whose 100% record was giving Biggar the lead they had, again slotted the kick beautifully between the uprights and gave Biggar a five point gap with only minutes left. Six out of six kicks is a hugely commendable performance.
Just when the crowd thought that might be it, Boroughmuir supplied a sting in the tail. The restart take was a mess by Biggar, giving the visitors possession. They surged forward, Biggar desperately trying to keep them out for a few more minutes. They continued to plough towards the Biggar line and, despite the defences’ bravest efforts, scored in the left hand corner. Scores were level with the conversation to come.
The conversation was missed but a retake was ordered by the ref as there had been some unsporting shouting from the home team! The drama in this game was unbelievable with the crowd chewing away on the finger nails they had left. Second time around was the same as the first and the scores were level. Then the ref blew the full time whistle.      
What a match! The controversial moments will be talked about with both sides probably feeling aggrieved for some reason or another but either team could have nicked it with a draw being the fairest of outcomes. Biggar were strong, almost doing enough and, on another day, second place in the league would be theirs but Boroughmuir played well and deserved to be credited with a share of the points.
On a day when we remember losses from the past, all could go home with out the pain of loss.

Biggar 0 Aberdeen 5 - 2s Match Report

There was no 1st, 3rd or Colts fixture at the weekend and so the spotlight fell on the 2nd XV who entertained Aberdeen Grammar at Hartreemill. The match report for this game has agin been penned by coach John Bogle while the U-16 report was written by U-16 player Richard Adams. Well done and thanks to both for their literary skills.

Biggar 2nds v Aberdeen Grammar FP 2nds Biggar entertained Aberdeen Grammar at Hartreemill and the resultant clash could be felt in the High Street. Aberdeen brought a big side to do battle but as usual the home side were up to the task, Biggar strengthened by the return of Cameron Thomson and Michael McKeand. The Biggar side were further bolstered by some first team players unused last week, Club captain, Davy Reive, Andrew Peacock, Kevin Anderson and Lewis MacLachlan.

The usual start to 2nd XV games ensued with the home side tearing into the visitors. Aberdeen were up to the task however and soaked up the pressure. As the half wore on it was Aberdeen who started to exert pressure, being camped in the Biggar half for most of the half. It was a huge defensive performance that saw Biggar hold out until half-time only 5 – 0 down. The half was not without incident, as when Aberdeen were almost over in the clubhouse corner it was brilliant pirating of the ball by Lewis MacLachlan to steal the ball and present it beautifully. He was on the ground and isolated however and what can only be described as an errant boot sliced open his head around the ear, meaning the in-form flanker had to leave the field and was unable to return. A stramash a moment later ended in a penalty to the visitors, the attempt was unsuccessful, bringing the half to an end.

The second half kicked off with Biggar trying to impose themselves and gain some territorial advantage; this was achieved in part and Biggar created chances but stout defence by the visitors kept the home side out. The game was end to end. Biggar had to make changes due to injury, Neil Wolfendene had to come off - the veteran lock again produced a huge performance only for a groin injury to cut his game short. The other changes were Calvin Henderson having to leave the front row after a hard day at the office but to the big prop’s credit he stuck to his task against a very experienced operator. Kev Anderson moved to prop and the new club hooker came on, Andrew Muir. He was taking up the berth for only the second time but he is relishing the challenge and looks like a prospect. David MacArthur took his place at scrum half with Davy Reive moving to flanker and he must be bulking up as at his first line out the lifters failed to get him off the ground! All these changes did not affect the home side as the squad system is really working. Biggar made one more change with Ali Dow coming on for David Paterson, the young wing not getting much ball on Saturday but whenever he did he posed problems to the Aberdeen defence.

There were no scores in the second half, a missed penalty by Richard Peacock the only blot on the big centre’s performance - a return to form for Richard bodes well for the rest of the season. The game sounds dull at 5-0 but for the purist it was an enthralling encounter and the commitment from both sides was immense. The large and much appreciated crowd went into the bar satisfied they had seen an old fashioned Biggar performance, the only negative being that the home side could not secure all the points. The 2nds travel to Kirkcaldy for the first return game of the league season, the first encounter at Hartreemill seeing Biggar win comfortably. I am sure, knowing Kirkcaldy well that there will be a warm Fife welcome waiting for Biggar. A quality training session during the week will be needed to make sure the points come back to Biggar.

The Colts were frustarted when Haddington couldn’t find a pitch at Neilson Park to host their fixture. Unable to travel, Biggar’s squad were left with a blank Saturday. It was much the same for the 3rd XV who were left without a fixture after Dunbar called off the scheduled game. A ‘gather up’ between the 3rd and the 1st XV for a bounce match failed to materialise! Just as well for the 1sts!

Biggar v West of Scotland - 2s Match Report

Biggar v West of Scotland

It was a beautiful autumnal day on Saturday when Biggar entertained West of Scotland. The Biggar side showed a few changes from the squad that drew against Dunfermline, lats week.
Christopher Lawrie coming in at hooker, briefly for the unavailable Callum Moorehouse, Truck would be replaced by the late arriving Andrew Muir who got an hour at hooker. The big forward looked to relish the front row, given his size this maybe a positive move for Andrew. The other changes saw veteran club captain Stuart Harrison come in at centre, Murray Thomson slip back to full back, David Paterson move onto the wing and Cameron Jackson come in at second row.

There was a third club captain playing Ewan MacAlpine returning to the back row and also skippering the side. Biggar also had a last minute injury worry when in form prop Michael Dunlop arrived sporting a still very bruised ankle from an Agric’s game midweek, The ankle was a beautiful violet and a little tender but after some TLC from the Medi Man, he was good to go.

Biggar kicked off towards the clubhouse and as has been the case Biggar came out firing and immediately made their presence felt the line coming up fast and making hits especially Harri, who introduced himself to his opposite number immediately if not a little late. This set the pattern for the Biggar defence, West would not be allowed time on the ball and so it continued throughout the game, Biggar’s defence was resolute against what has to be said was a huge West side. The first half continued to to and fro between the 22’s until sustained pressure from the Biggar pack led to the backs taking the game deep into the West half and the resultant score from Lewis MacLachlan. The try went un-converted from Richard Peacock the big centre’s boot being out of sorts to begin with.

The half ended with Biggar 8 – 0 up after a successful penalty attempt from the Richard Peacock the kick was wide out and it was sweetly struck and immediately the flag of past-president Bobby Boyd was hoisted aloft to signal success and the score moving onto 8 points.

The second half kicked off with a rejuvenated West side keen to play rugby fast and loose, the previously mentioned Biggar defence stuck to their task and tackled anything in red and yellow. The workload was intense at times but Biggar must take great heart from the ability to soak up the pressure and when the chances come they retaliate with interest. This bruising encounter was taking it’s toll on the home side with Euan Sanderson coming off to rest his shoulder which the flanker had put to good use when chopping down West attacks, he was replaced by Bo Brown, who was playing his first game for a couple of months. Bo made his presence felt in a pack in the ascendancy. Biggar made a further couple of replacements Truck coming back on for David MacArthur who suffered a knee knock, only to return 5 minutes later assuring his coach he was not limping……much.
The last replacement was David “Chopper” Robertson who also came into the back row as Derek “Bo” Brown moved up to second row and the exhausted Cameron Jackson left the field.
West threw on their replacements and the game continued hammer and tong and again Biggar repelled the Glasgow hordes and advanced to the visitor’s line which saw a move started by the forwards taken on by the backs and finished decisively by Calvin Henderson.

The score 13 -0  and time running out West gave it one last effort only to see themselves stripped of the ball and driven back up field only for Biggar to lose the possession and have the West backs almost create a consolation try but yet again the Biggar defence was up to the task.

The game ended 13 – 0 the score may look meagre but that does reflect the effort from both sides in a thoroughly entertaining game. The home side again strengthening the team spirit which is coming through now the side is settled.

Biggar await the arrival of high flying Aberdeen Grammar on Saturday at Hartreemill. A big turnout at training will be required to prepare for this game.

Dunfermline v Biggar - 2s Match Report

Biggar travelled to Dunfermline on Saturday with a strong squad, bolstered by the return of Bob Aitken at centre and in form Paul Kane at lock, both coming down from the firsts. Bob was a straight swop for Haksa and Paul slotted in with the un-availability of veteran Ewan MacAlpine, Callum Moorehouse came in at hooker for un-available skipper Kevin Robison.
It was a huge Dunfermline pack that warmed up. Biggar’s plan was to run them around and test their fitness, thinking initially the tight exchanges maybe Dunfermline’s ace card.

The Game kicked-off at a cracking pace with Biggar as is their trademark taking the contest to the opposition. It was evident that size is not necessarily everything; the tight exchanges were going Biggar’s way with some impressive scrummaging from Michael Dunlop, who roasted his opposite numbers all afternoon, he was ably assisted by his fellow front row colleagues Calvin Henderson, who, himself is in a rich vein of form and the returning Callum Moorehouse, who put up a feisty performance at hooker.
The back row and locks rampaged around the park all afternoon but were frustrated by Dunfermline’s ability to snaffle the ball at the breakdown, the old heads of Dunfermline knew how to work the blindside which snuffed out the bulk of Biggar’s attacks in the first half.

The backs were always dangerous when the chances appeared, Soapy always looking to break and the pace of the young backs was scintillating, David Patterson coming into the line from full-back ably supported by the wings Trusk and Ali Dow it was they who took us to the Dunfermline line, for the forwards to finish the move off through Lewis MacLachlan, the big flanker had a powerful game with his return to full fitness nearly there, he will put pressure on the first team back row. It was a credit to his performance that the referee’s assessor made a point of shaking his hand after the game. The conversion was narrowly missed by Richard Peacock.

Biggar’s second try came from another well worked move involving backs and forwards, again, this time it was Andrew Muir who barrelled over close to the posts the make the score 10 -0. The conversion was successful this time 12 -0. With little time left of the half Dunfermline managed to get a score to keep themselves in the game. The half time score 12 -5.

The half time team talk was simple the only department Biggar were short in was the ruck and the inability to remove the tackler. The plan was to go back to old fashioned rucking and clear everything out. There was an enforced change at half time with Murray Thomson coming off with a knock; his replacement was the returning Stuart Moffat, who went on the put in a telling performance at stand-off. Biggar carried the plan out brilliantly and scored within 5 minutes of the re-start, three beautiful rucks and the backs silkily moving the ball wide ending with big Cameron Jackson barging over to score, 17-5. Cameron having come off the bench for the unlucky Andrew Muir, who seemed to tweak an Achilles tendon just after the start of the half.

Biggar were now in the ascendancy they had Dunfermline by the scruff of the neck, only for the referee for a second week take a dislike to Black shirts with curious decisions being made much the bemusement of the Biggar fraternity. This kept Dunfermline in the game and frustrated Biggar which lead to various penalties being awarded. The ground being lost to infringements told on the Biggar defence and eventually the home side scored a well worked backs try, unconverted, 17-10.

The game started to get edgy with Biggar being unable to do anything right in the eyes of the referee. The Dunfermline attack was buoyed by the decisions and instead of disappearing out the game as looked likely they lifted their game for a last push culminating in a try under the posts, which was converted, 17-17.

Biggar again tried to gain field position only for the referee to penalise the visitors, the exemplary discipline which Biggar had shown throughout the game frayed slightly and cost valuable yards to take Dunfermline close to the Biggar line and it was a credit to the defence that they held out for the draw, which was a travesty for Biggar.

There were many positives to take away from this game the composure shown for most of the game under intense pressure from the whistler. The way the team took instruction at half time and carried out the plan to such effect. Also the team spirit which is building, now the side is settling down and training together bodes well for a better second half to the league campaign.

Biggar entertain West of Scotland this Saturday. With the good numbers training last week it is evident what a good Thursday session can bring, this will be required again this week to maintain the improvements seen on Saturday.

Biggar v GHA - 2s Match Report

Biggar V GHA

Biggar entertained GHA at the Showfield on Saturday, a game that would have a huge bearing on the rest of the season. It was imperative that Biggar recorded a win against their Glasgow opponents after the disappointment of last Saturday’s defeat at Selkirk.

As has been the case all season Biggar took the kick-off and immediately took the game to GHA, the pressure mounted on the visitors and eventually the holes appeared in their defence. Haksa Wilbore darted through on of the gaps making a seering break to the opposition 22, when he was eventually brought down he made a great pass out of contact to the ever-present Lewis MacLachlan who was the only player able to keep up! Lewis dotted down under the posts, Haksa  then converted the try, Biggar were up 7 – nil.

The pressure continued from Biggar and again forward dominance in the tight and to some extent the loose exchanges allowed the backs to torment the GHA defence. Credit must go to GHA for the resolute defence or this could have got away from them by half-time.

Biggar’s second score came again through hard work from the forwards and incisive running from the backs to culminate in a try for Haksa Wilbore. This time the conversion went abegging. Biggar were awarded a penalty just outside the GHA 22, Haksa opted for posts, the kick looked over and stalwart 2nds line judge Bobby Boyd indicated success only to be overruled by the GHA touch judge and ultimately the ref. This was not the only low point regarding decisions, which beggared belief at times most of the first half decisions went against Biggar wich kept GHA in the game to an extent. Then the referee to the belwilderment of all concerned handed out a yellow card to a GHA back at a ruck. This allowed Biggar to apply extra pressure and another try was inevitable, again the backs and forwards combing and culminating in a score and second try for Lewis MacLachlan. The conversion was successful and the half time score was 17 – 0.

The second half started with the same incredible decisions taking all the flow out of the game. Biggar being pinged for all sorts of infringements, which were hard to fathom from the touchline, however it became obvious that at some point the patience of the referee would break, and it did. The second yellow card of the game being shown to, of all people…… Murray Thomson for being offside at a ruck, if there was one person who had not infringed it was Murray! GHA stepped up and slotted the penalty.

The yellow card had a negative effect on Biggar and concentration lapsed to the cost of another penalty, the referee now stopping play at almost all breakdowns to issue warnings to individuals and team warnings. Biggar rallied and took the game back up the hill at the showfield only to be penalised time and again at the breakdown, when in complete control. GHA responding in kind with huge clearance kicks which gave them territorial advantage, which in turn led to a ruck infringement and a further penslty chance which was well taken, the score now 17 – 9.
The game stuttered to a conclusion with Biggar, I would say running out creditable victors, against a stuffy GHA side who made the game a proper contest, had it not been for over-zealous refereeing the game would have been a cracker. This will hopefully kick start the league campaign for Biggar. The side is starting to look a more settled side and the rugby they play is exciting. To build on this success  means the squad must get to training during the week to work on the fine tuning for the trip to Dunfermline this Saturday.

Selkirk v Biggar - 2s Match Report

Selkirk v Biggar

Biggar travelled to Selkirk on Saturday with a slightly depleted squad due to the sunny day Saturday turned out to be. The squad that started was one of the best seen in a 2nd’s strip in a long time and it showed from the kick-off. Biggar tore into their opponents playing rugby of a high calibre. The game twoed and froed Biggar the more dominant and eventually the pressure told and after committed driving from the forwards and good runnignlines from the backs a try was scored by scrum-half David MacArthur, the conversion was successful from Haksa Wilbore, who slotted into the team and made the back line tick with well disguised passes bringing players onto the ball at pace which caused the Selkirk defence ral problems.

Biggar were awarded a penalty just outside the Selkirk 22 and Haksa opted for posts, he slotted the kick with no trouble, Biggar now 10 -0 up. The score made Selkirk work harder and the game was played between the 22’s. No more scores came before half-time and the score remained 10- 0.

The second half unfortunately saw a change in the Biggar line-up Andrew Goodall coming off after a valiant first half in which he played on with a shoulder injury. The replacement for Biggar was Christopher Lawrie, who slotted in at wing, as usual. This brought the highly effective Charles Cochrane forward from centre into the back row, where he again excelled.

The meagre squad numbers eventually began to tell on Biggar as Selkirk refreshed their team Biggar looked a bit tired given the work required to stem the challenge now being mounted by Selkirk. It was inevitable that the pressure would tell, it did with Selkirk scoring 25 points and running out worthy winners of a hard fought contest.

Biggar must now regroup for the home game against GHa next Saturday.

Perthshire v Biggar - 2s Match Report

Perthshire v Biggar 2XV league 1st October 2011

Biggar 2xv travelled to Perth on Saturday for the first match in over a year between the clubs due to both clubs being unable to field a team on the due dates last season. Biggar numbers were swelled by the travelling support, the Bogle Family and Una and Niamh Stewart (who were actually in Perth for a netball tournament) however the noise from the touchline was deafening.

The Biggar XV to face Perthshire was slightly different again from last week with David Robertson (chopper) coming in at second row, for the unfortunate John Hyslop who suffered a knee injury last week, he certainly made his whole 5’ 9” tell during the game, putting in a fantastic shift alongside his middle row colleague Neil Wolfendene.

The game kicked off and Biggar were straight into their stride scoring right away through Charles Cochrane, who rampaged over the line for the first of his three tries. A good game for the rumbustious flanker, the try success meaning he had to buy a bottle of Port for the hat-trick.

Next on the board was Murray Thomson, another returning to the fray after a coupe of weeks off to run a few 10k’s. The rest has done the big 10 well he looked sharp and took his try well. He later came off with a bang to the knee, which should not keep him out the team for next week.

Biggar had started well but during their scoring spree they leaked a try and a penalty which gave the opposition hope, however slim. A half time score of 26-8, there were some observations surrounding the cavalier style Biggar were adopting and a “back to basics” approach for the second half would bring the scores Biggar were so desperate to get.

The second half started like the first with a couple of changes Lewis MacLachlan coming on at centre and scoring almost from the kick-off. This was followed up by a try from “the cornet” James Tawse. Lewis then ran in his second try, which was quickly followed by one from in form scrum-half David MacArthur.

The tries were converted in the main with a couple of misses by Richard Peacock who after a scare last week, when he received a bang to his knee, returned to scintillating form this week.
The try count was finally completed by Alex Williams playing his last game before returning to Uni, next week. Along with a try and two conversions Richard Peacock’s tally was 11 points.

The final score being 56-8. This was a more complete performance from Biggar, although the try scorers have been mentioned the whole team contributed and worked together to make this score. It is evident there is a lot to this team and it can only improve with training numbers going up.

Biggar entertain Dumfries this weekend at Hartreemill, Dumfries are on the crest of a wave at the minute so this will be a real test of where we are and what we want to achieve.

Musselburgh v Biggar - 2s Match Report

Biggar travelled to Musselburgh full of optimism after a good turnout at training on Thursday night. The loss of Veteran back row Ewan MacAlpine was a blow his experience always pays dividends.

It was again a mix of young and experienced players and a mix of Seconds and Thirds, the boys stepping up are now looking fairly settled within the team and are enjoying the faster game!! (GY)

The game kicked off bathed in Autumnal sunshine and the prospects were good, however Musselburgh had different ideas and the side we played and beat last year was certainly not in evidence. This was a bigger faster and well drilled side that ran in 38 points in the first half. One of the few brights spots for Biggar was the return to the fray of Lewis McLachlan who for 20 minutes did everything one man could to stem the flow of scoring and in doing so the blood flowed… from his head, a gash that would require stitches no doubt later in the day, patched up and helmeted he returned to the fray and lasted 30 minutes, replaced by Murl Midgely. He must be happy with the amount of work he put in and the time lasted; only game time will improve on what is and impressive level of fitness. Biggar first half woes were not helped by the loss of winger David Patterson, who left the field with an ankle knock.

A few stern words at half time and a belief we could still pull something from this game saw Biggar start impressively only to see possession lost from the kick off drive and Musselburgh score. This was a huge blow to the team’s confidence and it was apparent for sometime as Musselburgh ran tries in at will. The Biggar team again had a talking to which saw the desire they have shown previously return and even though the score ran to 82-0, the final 10 minutes must be what the boys grasp when they look back at this game for the last 10 minutes they held possession and drove with everything to the Musselburgh line first driving tight through the forwards then shipping the ball wide but the Musselburgh defence would not be breached and the score ended as previously stated.

It will take a bit of rallying during the week but we must lift our heads and prepare for the visit of Hamilton, who come to Hartreemill on Saturday for the next instalment of the League programme. Another good turnout Tuesday and Thursday will help immensely in the improvement of this squad.

Dalziel v Biggar - 2s Match Report

The seconds travelled to Dalziel for their second game of the league campaign. The team knew it would be a very different test from that of last week.

Again the team was affected by holidays and un-availability, however the boys who stepped up from the thirds acquitted themselves well, this lack of cohesion was the main reason Biggar went down 31-12.
The Dalziel team were well organised and got into their stride far quicker than Biggar, scoring 3 first half tries. The half ending, 17-0.

Biggar were by the end of the first half starting to make inroads into Dalziel territory. When the turnaround came Biggar had the wind, the slope and concentrated their efforts in dalziel 22, they were kept out by stout Dalziel defence and incredible refereeing decisions, this lack of consistency lead to some frustration and concentration being lost. Biggar dug deep and re-asserted themselves scoring a magnificent try from continuous battering at the Dalziel line the points coming from xxxxxx.

Biggar went straight back into the  Dalziel 22 from the kick off, hammering away again at the try line, only for the ref to penalise Biggar again for something only he saw, this allowed Dalziel to ease the pressure and scamper the length of the field, scoring their second try of the half and taking the game out of Biggar’s reach. Biggar kicked off immediately and again were camped on the Dalziel line until the pressure told and Ewan MacAlpine barged over for a well deserved try.
Ali Dow kicked the conversion to bring an end to the game, 31-12.

The effort from the team was a credit to them; the only disappointment was the 30 minutes that it takes to get know each other at the beginning of a game. Training during the week is imperative; when this happens then the effort exerted on a Saturday will bring the results the team deserves.
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It was good to see Richard Peacock return to the fray, coming through an hour with no knee problems there was also a return to action for Fraser Campbell the veteran prop coming on midway through the second half and immediately making an impact driving the scrum back and making telling drives leading up to the first try.

Ali Dow making an appearance at scrum-half, played well, giving good service to Murray Thomson, who had another authoritative game at 10. It is obvious when this team settles they will get the results they are working so hard for.

The seconds travel to Musselburgh next week, we will require a good turnout at training this week to get the team settled.

Biggar v Kirkcaldy - 2s Match Report

Biggar 2nd XV took to the field on Saturday against visitors Kirkcaldy. This was the first run out this year combined with the first full training session.
The plan for the game was to concentrate on basics and tidy-up any mistakes that would occur as efficiently as we could.

The game kicked off with Biggar taking the game straight to the visitors applying pressure in every phase, Kirkcaldy started fairly strongly and the play was midfield until Biggar broke the deadlock with a fine passage of play resulting in a try for Ewan MacAlpine, who incidentally was making his first appearance since his terrible injury at Kirkcaldy, last year. The conversion was added by Ali Dow.
As the first half progressed the mistakes became fewer and the confidence grew, resulting in scores for Captain Kev Robison another for Ewan MacAlpine, one for Ewan Sanderson and another for Alex Williams, two of which were converted by Ali Dow, who added a penalty for a half time score of 34 -0.

It must be mentioned that veteran lock David Ireland performed the play of the day when covering back in the old no.8 position as all mobile locks do, He gathered the ball from a kick ahead by Kirkcaldy, when the on-rushing stand-off was in position to tackle the giant lock, he dummied in field then revolved the other way to sprint 40 yards up the touchline with the ball and set up a perfect ruck, when the rampage was brought to a premature end (much to Davy’s relief) by a despairing tackle from the opposing scrum-half.

The second half got underway with Biggar attacking the clubhouse and the progress continued with the front row of Michael Dunlop, Kevin Robison and Calvin Henderson proving hard task masters for the Kirkcaldy eight. The second rows which during the game were David Ireland, Neil Wolfendene and replacement lock Cameron Jackson putting in a power of work and a total dominance of the line-out. This power base set up a great platform for the back row of Ewan Maclpine, Ewan Sanderson and comeback man, John Hyslop, who ruled the breakdown and snuffed out any attacking thoughts Kirkcaldy had.

Scrum half Iain Baillie has obviously enjoyed the sojourn to New Zealand, his confidence and service set the backs up on the front foot. He coupled well with veteran club captain Murray Thomson, who playing at 10 was the orchestrator of the back play and the spot kicker near the end slotting 2 conversions. The back line of centres Ali Dow and Alex Williams resumed where they left off last year brimming with confidence and tormenting the opposition with searing breaks and thunderbolt defence. Our wingers of David Paterson (a colt of last year, was a revelation in attack and defence scoring three second half tries) and Billy Scanlon were arch predators any sniff of a hole in the defence was exploited. Biggar’s full back was the inimitable Wullie Steel who reeked havoc in the Kirkcaldy defence with his wizardly attacks and penetrative kicks.

The second half scores came from Iain Baillie rounding off a good performance which can only get better as the season continues. Alex Williams scoring his second of the game after fantastic work by the forwards then the backs. A game played with this amount of possession could not have been just unless Wullie Steel got a try and he did indeed torturing the Kirkcaldy defence then passing the ball on only to be there in support to dot down the try, abley converted by Murray Thomson. The last score of the game was the third try from “man of the match” David Paterson when he dotted down his third try again Murray Thomson stepped up to convert.

The seconds must take great heart from this performance and the spirit with which they play. It is important to mention the squad who played a big part in this victory, Malcolm Bruce who made a big impression when coming on in the second half, I am not sure Kirkcaldy could believe the pace of the Lomuesque  full back. Andrew Howatson sidled on at centre and also showed he is a contender for a centre berth when the harvest is finally over. The final replacement was Johnathan Huntley making his first senior appearance for Biggar since Colts.

We must move on from this solid foundation and build the game to the level we had last year. It is vital that the whole squad trains both Tuesday and Thursday, this will enable the whole squad to benefit and again mount a challenge to the league title.

Biggar travel to Dalziel this coming Saturday, which will be a stiffer challenge but one which will really let us know where we are.

Gary Parker

News broke on Saturday of coach Gary Parkers resignation which he announced to the players in the Myreside changing rooms immediately after the game. An offer of employment in Australia has proved to much for the Melrose man and he will leave these shores in the New Year to begin a new life with his family in Oz. The news obviously came as a massive shock to the club and will now lead to a search for a replacement. It is of course far too early to speculate on who that person will be but hopes are high that the vacancy can be filled quickly. Everyone at the Club would like to wish Gary and his family every success in their new home and his new carreer.