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| NO FINAL COMFORTS IN DEFEAT Hillhead/Jordanhill 10 pts Aberdeen Grammar 35 pts Despite the rousing presence of the Kilbarchan Pipe band and the touchline support of many former playing members viewing what was likely to be the final league game played on the main pitch at Hughenden prior to its re-development, the “Hills” struggled throughout to match a lively Aberdeen side who triumphed by one goal, five tries and one penalty goal to one goal and one penalty goal. The moments when “Hills” were in the ascendancy were few. A very bright opening three minutes saw two try scoring opportunities squandered. When Aberdeen did come into the game, they quickly scored a try following a clean midfield break, and soon added a penalty goal. This stung the “Hills” into action and a period of pressure was built in the visitors’ twenty two which led to series of charges on the Aberdeen line. The large frame of Duncan McCartney raised home expectations when he crashed over the line, allowing Gus Twaddle to kick the conversion. Aberdeen were now only one point ahead, but they soon returned to dominance, reaching the interval 17 points to 8 ahead. The second half proceeded in a virtual funereal atmosphere with the home support virtually silenced as the “Hills” struggled manfully, but failed to make much impression on their dynamic visitors. The few passages of sparkling play came from the two physically smallest players in the “Hills” ranks, Gus Twaddle at full back, who kicked a penalty goal, and replacement scrum half, Andrew Gillman, each of whom generated considerable pace and showed invention in trying to establish better field positions. Ultimately, even their best efforts were thwarted. The game was finally brought to a conclusion by the excellent match referee, Luis Arola, with Aberdeen Grammar comfortable victors by 35 points to 10. “ We were well beaten , and there are no complaints,” said “Hills” head Coach, Keith Robertson. “All our players tried very hard, and you cannot ask much more than that. With Cartha QP winning at Kelso and Musselburgh gaining a losing bonus, we must try to rescue something from West at Burnbrae this Saturday. I think you can take it that everyone will be up for the game.” “Hills” XV – Angus Twaddle, Donald Robertson, David Paterson , Dan Witko, David Mitchell( c ), Cammy McCulloch, David Armstrong ( Andrew Gillman ), Blair Mckenzie ( Steven Longwell ), Stewart McMillan, Nick McAulay, Duncan McCartney , Murray Bell ( Louis Le Grande ) , Stuart Ross , Cameron Kerr and Douglas Wood ( Douglas Elder ). Subs. All used |
