2nd XV tour to Northern Ireland, December 2006

The 2nd XV tour is traditionally organized and run by Dave Stranock, and in the light of last term's events it was not going to go ahead; but at a late stage Mark Appleson did a fantastic job of organizing the tour and secured fixtures against Belfast Institute and Carick Fergus, the former also
providing billeting for the players.

The first game v Inst 2nd XV did not start well with a dropped kick off which ultimately resulted in a score against us; we came back with some good rugby to score twice in the first half, through Jamie M and Andrew F, but trailed 17-12 at half time. We dominated the second half with around 70% possession, but lacked a little bit of patience and composure when it came to finishing. The full time
score: Merchiston 2nd XV 12, Belfast Institute 2nd XV 24. The boys were very disappointed, knowing that the should have won the match.

The second game against Carrick Fergus 1st XV also started slowly, with us down 10 points within 6 minutes before Ed F kicked our first 3 points. A Jamie H try in the last minute of the first half gave the team a boost and this showed in the second half when the team played some very slick rugby. The final score was 32-17. Both teams did very well to play the game due to the referee being close to an hour late for the kick off.

Hospitality at both schools was first class and all staff wished Dave Stranock all the very best. The reception that we received is testament to all the good work and the relationships that Dr Stranock has built up in the years he has done the tour.

Special thanks go to Mark Appleson for doing a great job organizing the tour at late notice and to Rob Armstrong for all his work with the team.

Freddie Main