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Marr Rugby - senior squad selections for 13 January 2018

Marr Rugby - senior squad selections for 13 January 2018

Kevin Quinn12 Jan 2018 - 08:00
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Marr Rugby - senior squad selections

Marr Rugby - senior squad selections for 13 January 2018 (2pm kick-offs)

BT Premiership: Marr Rugby v Boroughmuir
BT West Reserve League 2: Annan RFC 2s vs Marr Rugby

Its action stations at Fullarton. As we reach the closing stages of the league it’s a critical match for both Boroughmuir and Marr in their fight to avoid relegation. Whilst the visitors occupy the spot no one wants there is only a single point separating the sides and Boroughmuir have a game advantage over Marr.

Marr Rugby’s players, coaches and supporters know what they can and have to do and on Saturday they have the collective opportunity to deliver.

Meanwhile the 3s are on a lengthy road trip to Annan and face a real test against their 2nd XV who have an impressive home record. Winter and other disruption has meant that the 3s haven’t played a competitive match since 4 November. Players are itching for game time but the squad is depleted by absence of several players unable to commit to the full day due to work or other reasons. The troops who travel are stepping up for their side and the club and we wish them well.

Marr Rugby 1st XV preview: After last week’s results both sides will want to start afresh and be keen to quickly make a mark and get a grip on this match. We anticipate a fast and furious start that runs with no or little respite for the full eighty minutes. In the reverse match in September Marr got into a good position but this was undone by a strong fightback – led by Johnny Matthews who was irrepressible scoring three of the tries that helped give the home side a 34 – 32 win. It was a real seesaw match ending with Marr refusing to concede, even scoring a final play try as Wilko crashed over from short range but just coming up short as the conversion attempt went wide.

Marr’s squad for Saturday is strengthened by the return of Fraser Watt and Angus Johnston and the inclusion of two Glasgow Warriors pro-players from the draft. With Oli Kebbie set to make his Marr debut and Fullarton favourite Samu Vunisa added to the pack Marr’s forwards should be able to provide a healthy attacking platform for the backs as well as options for open play. With Will Farquhar (sponsored by Paul Feeney) and Greg Jackson (sponsored by Kenny Craig) also available it’s the strongest front row options that Marr have ever enjoyed. In the back row its s similar story with Ben Johnston having to wait, no doubt impatiently, for the call to come on and make an impact.

In the backs Rory McGee retains his starting place at fullback to make his home debut in the BT Premiership and the home support will warmly welcome this appearance and eagerly await seeing him in action.

This Saturday Marr’s players know they have to patient and precise, reduce their error count, have a stable set-piece, be tight in defence and convert pressure into points. The players have reflected on recent performances and this Saturday can deliver.

Marr Rugby 1st XV selection
1. Oli Kebbie
2. Ollie Rossi
3. William Farquhar
4. Ewan Bulger
5. Ross Miller
6. Mackenzie Pearce
7. Angus Johnston ©
8. Samu Vunisa
9. Kaleem Baretto
10. Craig Kolarik
11. Tom Steven
12. Conor Bickerstaff
13. Richard Dalgleish
14. Scott Bickerstaff
15. Rory McGee

Replacements/Substitutes
Greg Jackson
Fraser Watt
Stephen Adair
Ben Johnston
Dougie Steele
Toby Buchanan

Marr Rugby 3rd XV preview: The 3rd XV travel to Violetbank Farm to take on Annan 2s who have an impressive home record. As both sides last played competitive matches on 4 November it’ll be a real test of strength and character. The 3s have been working hard in training and used this well and to good effect in their last ‘friendly’ match v Kilmarnock.
Today is a step up as a depleted squad hit the road. Work arrangements and other commitments is causing chaos for Andy Mathieson who is still finalising the travelling squad. Confirmed or almost confirmed so far:

Marr Rugby 3rd XV squad (to be finalised)
Sean Duff
Graeme Currie
Paul Bray
Chris Myers
Darren Morgan
Euan McGerty
Jason Munchen Doolan
John Calder
Andrew Mathieson (c)
John Ferrans
Andrew Dunlop
Lochlann Mcgregor
Andrew Watson
Gareth Abbot
Marc Tracey

Further reading