U9 v Compass (12/3)
This was an extremely entertaining encounter with both sides finding opportunities to run the ball and exchange tries during both halves. Compass were quick to settle first and opened the scoring within a minute of the kick off. They looked the sharper with some excellent tackling which broke the rhythm of any Merchiston attacks. Merchiston came back into the game while trailing by 2 tries and levelled the score. The game swung both ways until the first half ended with Compass ahead 4 - 3. The second half saw a similar pattern and Merchiston's reluctance to off-load in the tackle quickly prevented any width and scoring opportunities, whereas Compass were slick in their handling and created more chances. Some weak tackling by Merchiston with the boys tiring allowed Compass to close out the game with the final score 6 - 4 to the visitors. Merchiston worked extremely hard during the game but there inability to off-load in the tackle quickly prevented a different outcome to this game.
U9 v St Mary's (29/2)
Merchiston U9s knew this was always going to be a close encounter and the game certainly lived up to its billing. The game swung either way early on with both teams exploiting the full length of the pitch. Merchiston had the initial pressure and some good passing resulted in space for the opening goal. St Mary's responded very well with a 10 minute prolonged spell of pressure which enabled them to score 3 very well worked goals. Half time couldn't have come any sooner for the Merchiston boys and it was time to re-group. With a sense of urgency Merchiston took the early initiative and pulled the score back to 3 all with some great team work. St Mary's must have felt that they had won the game with the goal of the season - almost inside the Merchiston half a St Mary's midfielder volleyed the ball straight into the top corner. At 3 - 4 to St Mary's with only 4 minutes to play it looked like an away victory was going to be the predicted result. However, the Merchiston boys dug deep and manufactured a great goal to bring the game level and 2 minutes later they got the winner.
A draw would have been a fair result as both teams put so much into the game but Merchiston with their ability to keep focused until the end of the game just demonstrated slightly more pressure.
D2 v Stewart's Melville (3/3/12)
This was an incredibly tough match and what was most pleasing
was the character and self-belief shown by the boys. Stewart's were
bigger and stronger and had far more possession and the D2s had a
physical battle for every minute of the game. When we had the ball
we looked good, working overlaps and just not quite having the
space to run them in. Pressure in the first half paid off with
quick thinking from a penalty and Merchiston crashing over for the
only try of the day. This maturity and quick thinking was another
theme of the morning as the boys held their defensive shape, helped
each other and thought about how to cause the opposition problems.
Nile was immense all game, carrying the ball strongly and making
countless tackles. Ronan ran the back line as he has done all
season with great decision-making and perfect distribution, as well
as rock solid defence. Harry and Sean were unpassable in the middle
and Harry's rucking was vital, turning over some key ball. The
first five minutes of the second half were the turning point, with
Stewart's having continual pressure in our 22 and crossing the line
twice. It says everything for the D2s that they managed to keep
them out, with Greig in particular making a key hit.
At the end of the game the boys were thrilled but exhausted, and no
wonder. They had left everything on the pitch and thoroughly
deserved this fantastic end to a wonderful season.
F2 v Stewart's Melville (3/3/12)
A thrilling match that see-sawed both ways. Both sides played some excellent rugby. S Melville were quickly two tries ahead but Merchiston came back with fine scores from Cameron S and a debut try from man of the match Robert A who carried ball splendidly all game. Merchiston were down 3-2 at the break but soon equalised. Second half tries from Magnus M (2) and Cameron S again levelled the game. Charlie B had to leave the game with an injury and from then on we were on the defensive. However, with S Melville pressing for the winner captain Hector S cleared the ball to secure a draw. Both sides will be delighted with the quality of the tackling and off loading. My thanks once again to the loyal supporters who kept the team going.
U10B v Cargilfield (22/2/12)
With the weather conditions worsening prior to the kick off it was beginning to look doubtful if the boys would be able to hold onto the ball. High winds and drizzle threatened to spoil which has always been a closely fought match. However, the Merchiston boys demonstrated great handling on off loads which enabled them to find space on the pitch. Straight from the whistle Merchiston were in Cargilfield territory exploiting some handling errors from their opponents. With some very strong tackling Merchiston kept forcing the play back into the oppositions half. Try after try followed - all the boys showed a keen appetite to run with the ball and the support players were always at hand. Although Cargilfield managed one try they were permanently under pressure and could not retain any possession due to Merchiston's tough tackling. There were some outstanding individual performances, namely in the tackle - this rubbed off on the rest of the players who played extremely well also. The final try count added up to 12 for Merchiston: this illustrated how much all the boys have improved and they all demonstrated a real eagerness to be involved. Well done !
D1 v Tring RC (4/2/12)
Scheduled for the end of a week of frost, the fixture was in doubt till the very last moment, and that after a preparation limited by the hard ground. Readiness of either mind or body was made very difficult by the uncertainty so that when a playable surface was found, and a coach boarded to take us to an unfamiliar venue a lot of focussing was needed. Broughton High school provided a full size pitch in excellent condition but this was no longer in any sense a home fixture. Merchiston knew what to expect. They were giving away about a stone a player and they were greeted by a strong direct style of play with a finishing pace. It was a shaky start from them and vital tackles were missed. It was quickly 4 - 0 to the visitors. Captain Charlie moved the game into the Tring half demonstrating the effectiveness of strong straight running which the black and yellows did not enjoy. Once on the front foot Merchiston upped the pace of the game putting together some smart varied stuff. Their first try came through quick ball and quick hands, Josh in the line and Ross scoring. A pattern was emerging and Merchiston kept ahead with some excellent rugby combining skill, pace and the essential physicality. But Tring shadowed their score all the way, proving difficult to defend against. Though Merchiston made many fine tackles they would have to admit too many were missed. In the end we won 22 - 16 (seven tries to four, with our kickers unusually short of best form!) This was a different challenge and one which could have ended very disappointingly. As it was the team that dug deep confirming its character and its considerable talent. But there are challenges ahead that will demand even more from them. We are grateful to Mr Charman for finding a pitch and for refereeing the match, to Tring for the game and their visit to Merchiston, and our own parents who host, and spectate, and put up with our demanding hours. Joiner Jersey's this week to Daniel, Ollie and Angus.
U10B mini-tournament (15/1/12)
v Cargilfield (Lost 5-7)
A great opening game to the new year with both sides showing much
enterprise running with the ball at all times. Cargilfield opened
the scoring early on; however, Merchiston replied straight away.
The game continued in the same pattern with both sides exchanging
tries until 3 - 3. Merchiston then edged in front with a well
worked try. Some great handling and support and a fine finish in
the corner. Cargilfilfield responded with an individual run
powering over to level the match again. Cargilfield extended their
lead as Merchiston's tackling let them down. Both teams exchanged
more tries with Cargilfield winning in the end 7 - 5. A super
effort from Merchiston especially with their support play.
v Stewart's-Melville (Lost 1-3)
The second match against the home side was a much closer affair.
Merchiston battled for the full 15 minutes tackling an extremely
strong Stew-Mel side. After prolonged pressure DSMC broke the
defensive line to take the lead. Merchiston responded well keeping
the pressure on and a great interception by Mathew Darrington
brought the teams level. DSMC then had a try that looked
suspiciously ungrounded; however, the ref awarded the try to make
it 2 - 1. Then another decision that went against Merchiston where
the referee unknown blocked Toby, who was the last boy in defence,
preventing him from making a try saving tackle. This was a great
effort from the boys, especially as Stew-Mel were a powerful team -
fantastic tackling all round.
D1 v North Berwick (15/1/12)
The Christmas holiday and month off can see a team go back to 'square on', and the coaches having to start again. Not so with a good team: not so with this team! There was just a week to recover from any Christmas excesses and to regain precision and pace. The practices went very well and the final Friday one particularly so. Happily the first which set in at 4pm that evening 'jumped' to produce a perfect, still morning.
However, we started unconvincingly and there was a real likelihood that North Berwick would get points. Our opponents had enough physique and directness and individual players who were elusive. They tackled firmly. A Rufus break turned the game, and took us out of our half for the first time. Thereafter we suddenly looked dangerous and two side-to-side moves saw Josh escape to score. Lorne converted.
It was clear from then on that N.B were a 'confidence side' and for the rest of the half they struggled to mount much of an attack. tries by Josh and Charlie converted by Lorne and Jack, brought the half time score to 12. Important in subduing N.B had been some very robust tackling by Rufus, Charlie, Evan, Will, Lorne, Robert and Will R. The half time talked lifted morale in the visitors camp and they started strongly: we did not! Once again we had to struggle out of our half. Xander making the most of his promotion moved play 50m down the pitch. Thereafter scores came more quickly form a combination of moves and individual tackle breaking drives. It reached exhibition class in its variety and intensity. Charlie got a further try as did Lorne and Josh another two. Jack converted three. the total reached 30 -0. this was a splendid return to business and a good performance by everyone. there was a 'man of the match': Charlie. What a great day out he had! It was good for the team to cope without such a key figure as Ollie, but there can be no doubting we want him back from injury!This was undoubtedly the best performance of the season by a very long way. The F2s were always a score up throughout the game and passed the ball through phase after phase with real skill. Every one of the eleven who played more than did their bit. There really were eleven heroes.
Cameron and Hector scored super early tries and both led by example. Super wing play from Magnus and Charles added three more tries and several scintillating breaks and Rory W three times brought down giant Watson's players with try saving tackles as well as adding his own try. Tom scored from a fine interception and made some crucial breaks and Ben W, Ben R and Alex and Calum got through mountains of work throughout the game. They were always there linking in support and releasing the quicker men for the scores in the corners.
Well played to George Watson's, too. They never gave up and played some super rugby in an excellent spirit. Last year's F2s drew in this fixture 5 all and it is a real Christmas present to end the term on such a fine note. Thanks, also to those supporters who braved the cold to watch a Merchiston victory on the Watson's first pitch.
Today the U9s displayed a great team effort which was rewarded with 10 tries. The manner in which the boys achieved this was through a willingness to commit to all aspects of the game. Straight from the first whistle they put Fettes under pressure; however, it was the home side that broke away and scored first. Merchiston bounced straight back and demonstrated how they can off load fast in the tackle and use the width of the pitch. More tries were exchanged between both teams before Merchiston finished the first half on top at 4 - 2. In the second half Merchiston started where they left off and quickly added two more tries. All the boys were wanting to be involved and a lovely passage of play illustrated quick hands at the break down slick hands to take the ball wide and a great try in the corner. Fettes were finding it hard to break down Merchiston's relentless tackling and it was through this pressure that the U9s were quick to exploit their weaknesses. Six more tries were added within a 10 minute period with Fettes only managing one more try. The boys were extremely happy with their efforts and they deserved this result after such a tough season.
This was a cracking match and exactly what the D2s needed at this stage in the season. It was very physical from the start, but every player fronted up and our rucking was the best it has been. We won our own ball every time and Chris made a great break down his wing to score a try under the posts. The tackling was excellent from both teams and most of the first half was played in the middle of the pitch. Aysgarth made a nice break through the middle to score and make it level at half-time. The next twenty minutes would show what character the team had. Right from the start we kept them pinned back and indeed the whole of the twenty minutes was played in their half. Merchiston moved the ball beautifully, winning the rucks and then shifting the point of attack. The forwards were working so hard in the tight, with Tom and Jack securing the ball and Greig and Alasdair making countless tackles. The pressure paid off as Ronan crossed the line only to be held up before Merchiston got the winning score with a great dart by Cian in the corner. A special mention should be made for Alistair N who was up against their strongest runner and never took a backward step.
You should never underestimate Ardvreck especially in their own back yard. And, amazingly, this was the first real wet ball. Well, for the first half they defended like no other team we had met, and our best efforts seemed stymied immediately. They did not pose to many threats but we were relying on the opportune rather than anything planned. Fortunately a spectacular Josh try following clever Rufus recovery work (which acted as a dummy!) converted by Lorne gave us an early lead (4 - 0). But it was not a comfortable one. Late in the half we eased the pressure when Josh ran back an unwise hoof down the pitch and took us deep into Ardvreck's 22m area from whence Angus and Will (having a cracking game) each came close to scoring, before Mike bundled over.
With Jack's successful conversion it was (8 - 0), and soon afterwards half time. The final picture of the half was a classic try saving by Josh! The message at the interval had to be "match far from over". In fact it all but was: after the restart Merchiston tales went up and a toiling fullback was exploited. Ollie, denied on a first attempt to touch down, scored a great try (11 - 0). Although Ardvreck's rucking remained very effective and their spirit never lagged, we did find more opportunities to run, and territorially we enjoyed the better of things. Lochy's try came from another disallowed try, a scrum five and some super fast handling. It was right in the corner: Jack did very well to convert (15 - 0). Debutant Evan was putting in some great tackles. Then a cheeky interception (aren't they all?) saw Will racing half the field to underneath the posts chased, as he was keen to point out, unsuccessfully by their winger, the Scottish prep schools winger! Lorne should have converted. In the end a really good 18 - 0 win against a highly respected adversary (31 - 0 in old money). The pack had another hard day and good one. Nile earns his first Joiner jersey for his propping and general play. The forward contest had been pretty even though Charlie and Ollie had stood out often and influentially. the Ardvreck half backs were very smart but the Merchiston backs were more threatening and although there were too many dropped passes they did play some classy rugby, and pivotal in everything was our scrum half Jack.
Having lost four players through injuries above and the F1 game being twelve a side this was a very much weakened side. Nevertheless, in the first half we were very competitive, pulling back a 2-0 defecit to two tries all just after the break. However, we unluckily knocked the ball on as we crossed the opposition try line early in the second half and lost the chance to take the lead. With hindsight, this turned the game. A silly mistake let in the opposition for a breakaway try and limp tackling conceded two more. This is a game we could have won with greater strength of character.
'The day we took our chances'
Yes, we played a wealth of creative rugby. There were great moves and superb handling with long flat passes to run on to. The tackling in that first uphill half was, but for one occasion, so effective as to annul Cargilfield's huge physical, hard rucking pack. And we only looked vulnerable when we insisted on throwing the ball around under our own posts. This was a game typified by chances well taken: long individual runs once the defence was opened up. Robert showed the way, having the beating of his man and then finding lots of space. What a good game he had. We saw Angus' opportunism and his long bounding strides, how well he reads the game. Lorne they found hard to lay a hand on, and his post to post effort late on came as a huge relief: his piper's lungs were well tested. Daniel was important to us today, and he too escaped for a stretch of the legs. Rufus found several holes and his overall performance was class. As the second half wore on Cargilfield relied more and more on their strong men, and Merchiston were feeling very battered, particularly by Finlay who powered through for two late tries for the visitors. By this time we had some of our strong men out of the fray. Reflecting, it was, many conceded, the hardest game they had played in. Cargilfield have been winning impressively and that does not surprise anyone, they just lack pace and a bit of panache. The D1s had emerged winners against the best of the prep schools and they had to dig bravely deep to do so: there is a particular satisfaction in a win of this type. The final score 23 - 11 contained two tries each by Robert and Lorne, one each from Daniel and Angus with three Lorne conversions and two for Jack (whose delivery today was first class). Choosing the Joiner Jersey winners is as hard as it can be, with everyone doing so many good things, but is timely and right to recognise Robert and Rufus. Well done all thirty players: that was a match that really lived up to its billing.
Merchiston started brightly with most of the possession in the first five minutes, but unfortunately the F1s couldn't maintain this for the whole of the first half. A sudden change in Cargilfield's approach to the game resulted in a wave of attacks resulting in four tries before half time.
After strong words from captain Charles the boys started well, showing passion and a desire to get a much needed try at the start of the half, but unfortunately the Cargilfield defence was to strong at the breakdown.
Merchiston were always trying to play an expansive rugby, but unfortunately Cargilfield's players were stronger and more physical which dominated the attractive rugby Merchiston were trying to play. Overall it was a tough day but I am sure the boys can learn a lot from the challenges they experienced.
This was a pleasing performance from the F2 side. We began well with a good individual try from Cameron S and built on this with tries from Alex G and Andrew F to lead 3-2 at half time. My message was that we needed two quick scores early in the second half and Rory W stepped up to provide exactly what had been asked for. Two more tries gave Alex G his hat trick and a reccomendation for a Joiner Jersey and a fine well deserved try for Charlie B capped the afternoon. Credit to our opposition who kept plugging away and scored some fine tries. Thanks to all the loyal supporters.
On a sunny afternoon on a perfect pitch the D2s put in their best performance so far. They had to start strongly and they did exactly that, winning the physical battle up front and being so quick to re-organise that overlaps appeared immediately. Will led the charge, running in three tries, but it was the control of the breakdown that led to the space being created. We were four tries up at half-time but Riley House came back strongly after the break and it was great to see the boys respond well to the challenge. The tackling held firm, with some key hits from Alistair N, and there was one great moment where our defensive pressure forced a turnover and the ball was moved wide quickly to Ross who ran 95 yards to score. Our rucking became even tighter and Merchiston were in total control at the end, running in a further four tries in the second half: a great day all round.
Straight from the first tap Merchiston were extremely focused and put Cargilfield under pressure. The boys demonstrated superb tackling skills and forced numerous mistakes. With the game being allowed to flow Merchiston picked up on several advantages and quickly scored 2 tries. However, this did not stop Cargilfield getting back into the match and in the first half they managed to bring the game level at 2 - 2. Cargilfield had two sturdy players who they used to good effect, and burst through some tired Merchiston tackling in the beginning of the second half. They opened up a gap of 4 - 2 until Merchiston could respond with a late try to make the final score 4 - 3 to Cargilfield. Although Merchiston were beaten today they showed the most enterprise in their approach to the game. They held on to the ball for long periods with great off loads and were held up on the Cargilfield line several times without more reward which they deserved.
A beautiful day for running rugby but the pitch is narrow (like our own) and we were four more players (flankers) to crowd it. Effective rugby would have to be good rugby which created and used space. After a difficult rehearsal yesterday Merchiston could not wait to reassure themselves and the coaches. A good start was imperative! So Wazza caught the ball from the kick off and proceeded on a pretty direct path all the way to touch down under the posts! What a start! The visitors then put on a scintillating display of fast, creative, sophisticated rugby, and the tries came steadily. It was greatly to their credit that the quality was sustained throughout. There was no casualness nor selfishness, and the many substitutions did little to help disrupt the rhythm. Nine tries were scored and seven of these converted. Belhaven were not individually large in stature. They played stuffily and proudly, but they had a formidable job against such an on-form opponent.
F1 v Belhaven (2/11)
Merchiston once again started poorly and saw themselves down two tries within the first 5 mins. Fortunately this didn't last long as Merchiston gathered momentum and got themselves back into the game with excellent tries from Johnny and Rupert. The teams were evenly matched at half time with two tries each.
Merchiston started brightly in the second half with another outstanding try from Johnny. 3-2 up! Once again the game had a sudden change in fortune with Belhaven getting two tries within the space of 3 mins. 3-4down! Another try from each team made the score line 4-5 to Belhaven with 5 mins to go. It was end to end stuff and any ones game. Yet again Johnny came to Merchiston rescue with another fantastic solo run which saw him sneak a try into the far corner. 5-5 with 2 mins to go. Belhaven gathered up steam and started to force the F1s back to their try line. Heroic defending from Alister and Hamish C made sure they didn't concede another try. With seconds left Merchiston called upon Hamish H to send us home on the bus with a victory! A solo run the length of the pitch meant Merchiston won 6-5 in a closely fought match.
A very thorough preparation went well, apart from an injury to our number 10 (all the best no 10s get injured these days). But we have a highly competent deputy in Ronan. The forecast rain did not show, but there was an unhelpfully strong wind. The C pitch being unavailable we had to squeeze our wide game into our narrower pitch. We knew we had to avoid drifting and this we did, and in fact we probably benefitted. The Academy had a powerful pack and they outrucked us on a number of occasions. This one would have expected to have a significant effect on the final outcome and score. Merchiston were, however, sharper and better in every aspect of play, and they were on form producing some of their best play so far. A final score of 23 - 0 was made up of six tries and five conversions, and the zero was important: E.A.'s flier being completely contained except for one impressive break just stopped by Joshua. Josh was the most penetrative back, scoring the first and last try. Lorne was on his best form against his old school, scoring a fine try and converting three. Others who touched down were Ronan, Jamie and our skilly scrumhalf Jack C, who also converted two. Ollie, more normally involved in the physical stuff, succeeded with the last kick. Edinburgh Academy did not relax in their impressive forward play and their tackling was good forcing the home team to play intelligently. This was particularly apparent in Merchiston's very effective line-out play. So we move on: it's rucking practice before Belhaven on Wednesday.
The first half of this game saw the D2s' best performance this season. It was a windy day so the ball was not being thrown about but the team were tight, controlled, aggressive and well organised. The Academy could not cope with the tackling and rucking and Merchiston enjoyed all the territory and possession for twenty minutes. Michael led the charge, making ground and dominating the breakdown and Harry was finding gaps through the centre. Alasdair B looked very good at fullback and showed great 'heads up' rugby to run in a try in the corner. MCS were three tries up at half-time and it could have been more. The second half was more even and some of the handling was not as good but the tackling and determination were there and Harry broke through again to score a great solo try. Greig and Tom were starting to find gaps in the forwards and made some excellent breaks and the pressure finally told when good recycling and distribution put Chris away in the corner. After some easy fixtures this was a tough match and I am proud of how the boys stood up. Next Saturday will be even harder but we can be confident about the challenge.
100% humidity and persistent thin rain out of a windless grey sky! We had won but not well against Craigclowan three days after the Loretto Sevens, and here we were three days on again needing a quality game, one in which we got results from doing things properly! Well, we got a perfect opportunity: Heriot's who had proved too strong for us last year, this time could not offer much resistance when we played well, which was for most of the match: they provided Merchsiton with a most enjoyable and valuable experience. Ollie, Charlie and Will with direct running set up a first try for Josh. Jack converted. Ollie had another long counter well supported by Will C, who off-loaded back to Ollie for his first try. Lorne converted. Rufus did the preparatory work for another Ollie try, converted by Jack. Repeated forward drives with Charlie essential, suddenly afforded wide ball as far as Josh who accelerated to the line. Lorne succeeded with the kick. The last try of the half was harsh punishment for a wayward Heriot's kick up the middle of the field. Ollie finished off the lesson. After half time the team continued to play good unselfish rugby, and the first try was the coach's favourites involving a switch, a half break and straighten by Lorne, and excellent pass in front of Robert who ran clear almost to the line. Pressure then led via scrum 5 to another Ollie score, with points added by Lorne. Try seven was Jamie's after two earlier penetrative runs. Ollie powered over again, and then it was Rufus' turn to finish off so many good breaks with his own try onto which Jack put the icing. It was almost inevitable that Ollie's would be the last, the tenth try, and his sixth, with Lorne adding the extras. Final score 38 - 0. This was not a strong Heriot's team, but we must respect them for sticking to the task: they will have happier fixtures soon.
D2 v Heriot's (8/10/11)
This was a great way to finish the first half of term and the boys can now enjoy a well-earned break. It was a real team performance and every player contributed to the victory. We started very well, dominating the breakdown and moving the ball wide early. Chris had a fantastic start to the match, running in two tries and setting the tone for the game. In wet conditions the handling was exceptional and the backs looked really sharp and well-organised. Ronan, Sean and Xander worked brilliantly through the centre and the team ran in five tries to put us 19 points up at the break. The second half saw our best display of rucking and support as the forwards lifted their game even more. Tom was everywhere and Ross was making some excellent ground with the ball in hand (and two tries!). The boys were working for each other, though, and there was no selfish play which was great to see. It has been an excellent start to the season and we can be excited about the fixtures ahead.
D4 v Heriot's (8/10/11)
F2 v Heriot's (8/10/11)
On a dreadful day of cold, wind and drizzle the F2 mood was similarly cold. At 2-2 at half time the game was there for the taking but slipped chances and poor tackling let Heriot's get away. There were some decent passages of play from the F2s and man of the match award to Rory for his three tries.
U10B Cargilfield (5/10/11)
The weather conditions dictated a very tight contest between the two teams. Merchiston opened the scoring. After some close support play and good off loads and support, the try eventually came. The second try followed quickly with Merchiston dominating the first 10 minutes of the game. The boys should have capitalised on all the first half territory; however, some resolute defence from Cargilfield kept out the visitors. Cargilfield managed a break away try just before half time which kept them in touch at 2-1. The second half then belonged to Cargilfield with Merchiston losing their focus. Against the run of play, Merchiston extended their lead to 3-1 and the game looked secure. In the last 5 minutes of play Cargilfield turned the game around as Merchiston let in 2 very soft tries as a result of some weak defending. Overall, a good performance from Merchiston with good handling in difficult weather conditions. However, they must try and keep their discipline and concentration for the whole game.
D2 v Craigclowan (5/10/11)
This was an easy win in the end but the quality of the rugby was very high and the boys should be proud of their efforts. Merchiston started strongly and imposed themselves physically in the tackle and at the breakdown. There were zero missed tackles in the first half, with Tom and Jack leading the way with some great hits and the rucking was tight and organised. This meant the backs had good ball, going forward, and that makes all the difference: Ronan distributed well as always and our wingers had lots of space to run. Not that Chris needed much space, racing away from his opponent a number of times and running in some great tries. In the second half the D2s were in control and Cian was running the show from the breakdown. Ross boshed his way through some tackles to score a well deserved try and it was very good afternoon all round. Heriot's on Saturday will be a very different challenge and I hope the boys are confident, but focused, on the task ahead.
D4 v Cargilfield (5/10/11)
This game saw a much needed and much looked for improvement in our season so far. Many boys gave much more of themselves in this match and it was good to see four different boys (Dave, Harry, Archie and Konstantin) scoring tries, with five out of six being converted by Milo. Merchiston outclassed the opposition with some excellent teamwork and good communication, though tackling is still an area to improve on.
U9 v St Mary's (21/9/11)
Once the rain had finally stopped we managed to find a window of opportunity to start the game. The ball was especially slippery; however, both sides retained possession extremely well. The first half belonged to St Mary's as they ran away with 3 very quick tries. Merchiston were extremely slow in starting and some early missed tackles resulted in St Mary's first half success. The Merchiston boys started the second half with more purpose and were in touching distance after 2 extremely well constructed tries. Great handling and support kept the pressure on St Mary's, but a fourth try by them stretched their lead. The second half belonged to Merchiston with one more try, and the highlight of the game was the intensity of tackling from all seven of the boys who played. Despite losing by only one try, this was a marked improvement from their last 2 games and demonstrated the boys have much more to offer in future competitive matches.
D2 v Fettes (21/9/11)
This was a great display of organised running rugby and the D2s had the game won within the first ten minutes. We were tight at the breakdown and gave our backs quality ball which was key on a wet day. Their running was much more direct and the handling was excellent and a number of tries were scored in the corner after creating the overlap. A mention must go to hat-trick hero Ross C but it was a very impressive team effort. There was tough work from the forwards, with Harry always making ground and Greig always making tackles, and great distribution from Cian and Ronan to put our runners into space. It was pleasing to see no selfish play in this easy win and the team can now really look forward to our matches after the weekend break.
F2 v Cargilfield (21/9/11)
As they said after Scotland vs Georgia "A W is... the 23rd letter of the alphabet". However, it was excellent to put our first W on the board. Tries from Daniel B, Alex F Charlie B plus two more from Rory and Hamish were all good team efforts. In the first half we raced to a four nil lead which should have been six nil had we not twice grounded the ball over the five metre line when we had been told where the try line was. "Should have gone to Specsavers?"
At half time Cargilfield were inspired by a rousing team talk and came out like lions- we lay down like pussycats. At four -three with two minutes to go I was worried, but some good driving from the forwards saw us clear out a ruck to win possession and our scrum half did the rest.
D1 v Stirling County (17/9/11)
The second week back was a super one for preparation and massive progress was made by all. A great training afternoon on Wednesday with Fettes and Ardvreck helped iron mistakes. Stirling County are an unknown but after the first few minutes we realised that they were a very organised outfit and had a few good players across the board. Merchiston began the brighter and put together a few excellent phases of play but unfortunately a loose ball popped out from a ruck which allowed a Stirling player to pick it up and score a runaway try. It was a while before Merchiston hit back due to some stout Stirling defence. Stirling made a few changes and Merchiston pounced on their lack of cohesion and scored a few really super team tries. The Stirling discipline began to let them down much to the dismay of their supporters, but they must be credited for some tenacious defence. The final 20 minutes saw some breath-taking rugby from the home side and a few tries that went through a number of phases were scored. The drastic player positional swaps did not do much to prevent this. The forwards were super all game and well led by their skipper Charlie. In the backs Josh and Rufus were full of running, but we crabbed sideways at times
U9 v Clifton Hall (14/9/11)
The game was dominated initially by Clifton Hall who scored 2 early tries. However, the Merchiston boys rallied back to even the score. Some important brave tackling near the line prevented C H from scoring further tries. Merchiston began to show good support play and the handling became sharper and their support for each other was extremely encouraging. CH's superior strength started to pay off as they edged forward with another try. Merchiston managed a consolation try with time against them. This was a great team effort by the Merchiston U9 boys considering that CH went on to be unbeaten in the mini tournament.
U9 v St Mary's (14/9/11)
The game was a highly contested match with both sides showing great commitment in the tackle. Merchiston's support play was extremely good; however, an individual try by St Mary's led to the first try. Merchiston were quick to respond and the game was evenly balanced with tries being exchanged by both teams. Once again the off loads in the tackle were extremely good from the Merchiston U9 boys considering that this was only their second competitive game. In the last seconds of the game St Mary's broke free to edge the game scoring in the corner despite some great cover defence.
U10A v Loretto (14/9/11)
On a very blustery day the U10s had an exciting match against Loretto. Merchiston drew first blood through some great inter play, which allowd Johnny M to score in the corner. Unfortunately a few missed tackles allowed Loretto to score an equaliser. The score changed a few times in a very exciting half of rugby. The half time talk was simple: keep the ball and try turn it over when they are on the attack. This, however, did not happen and Loretto went ahead when they scored two relatively simple tries. Fortunately this kicked the team into action and through some good defence from Rory W and great turnovers from Hamish H we kept Loretto out and managed to peg two more tries from Johnny M (who scored 4 tries in total) and Alex F. A draw was a fair result as both teams played some very exciting rugby.
U10B v Loretto (12/9/11)
Despite the windy conditions, both teams demonstrated great passing and support skills. Loretto took an early lead with Merchiston replying almost immediately. The lead exchanged several times before half time with the Merchiston boys just edging it. Their commitment to the tackle was superb and all the boys were willing to support the runners. With only six boys available in the squad there were no subs; however, Loretto had the luxury of 8 players and subbed in during the second half. Despite this advantage Merchiston equalled Loretto's efforts and a late try ensured a deserved draw.
F1 (10/9/11)
MCS 0 - 2 WATSON MCS 0 - 3 STEW MEL MCS 1 - 2 EA
The boys started the Mini-tournament very well with a close match against Watsons. Unfortunately losing a try in the last 2 mins resulting in a 2-0. Stew Mel were up next and prove to be an extremely hard match, unfortunately we couldn't match the strength in their forwards and lost 3-0. Finally we played the host's in an excellent match. Outstanding play by Johnny Murray and Charlie De Beaux lead to a brilliant try for the F1's. EA came back strong and stole a late controversial try to steal an undeserved win.
D1 v Stewart's Melville (10/9/11)
The opposition always look big, and playing bigger boys has to be the frequent lot of Pringle top sides which include more than a handful of u12s. Stew Mel were big and physical, and they had taken a Watson's scalp already. Form the start they played powerfully and directly, and they used their strengths effectively, dominating the possession and quickly extinguishing any Merchiston moves. Inevitably a try came fairly soon and from one of many turnovers. There was plenty of heroic tackling and collective endeavour but we could not get off the back foot. A second try came from through a powerful build up and eventually a missed tackle. It was converted. Merchiston had their moments but they enjoyed very little space and handling errors were inevitable. The second half with Merchiston now playing down hill was a more even affair but not enough of it was played in the right areas. One particularly good spell brought the home team to a near score, but it was not our day and Stew Mel turned the ball over and broke out to score the match winner. On the day Ollie stood out with his trademark crunching tackles, but also his effective and tireless engagement with every phase of play. Captain Charlie intelligently led his troops, and succeeded in getting the best out of them. A start has been made, and if not the dream, expectations for the season are still very high. The team will get opportunities to demonstrate their handling and running skills.
D2 v Stewart's Melville (10/9/11)
We always play to win, so it is a disappointment to lose. Winning is not everything, though, and I was pleased and proud at the end of this match. The first half was very tight with Merchiston playing some good rugby and rucking well. We lost every line-out, bar one, in the game so were always struggling for ball but the handling was very good indeed, with Sean and Xander making some good runs. Stewart's were just a bit bigger and stronger and, after a long period of Merchiston pressure, they broke away with some big runners to score. Andrew was unfortunate to go off injured and Stewart's scored again just before half-time. Jack joined the team in the second half and made an immediate impact with the ball in hand. Our tackling was superb all day and we started to put some pressure on the opposition, spending time in their 22 and almost scoring in the corner. The last five minutes saw Stewart's camped on our line but this was the pleasing period of the game with physical commitment and team spirit ensuring that we did not let them through. The D2s were unfortunate to start the season with a defeat but the boys can be proud of what they did today and confident about the season ahead.
D4 v Stewart's Melville (10/9/11)
This was a difficult game for the first of the season. Stewarts Melville went ahead early with an early try and stormed ahead to being five tries up by half-time. Merchiston's lack of experience as a team showed, with some nervous tackling and, at times, sketchy positioning. However, things improved hugely in the second half with an excellent try from Jack and a very near miss in the attempted conversion from Cameron. There was good leadership and organisation from Archie in the backs and some excellent tackles from both Andrew and Dave.
F2 (10/9/11)
