Lomond win Plate final thriller

Marr U18s started the Plate final playing into the wind. They dominated the early exchanges and after a number of good carries Keir Gaw crashed over for an unconverted try. Lomond then built some pressure close to the Marr line and they soon scored a converted try to tske the lead 7-5. They soon extended their lead with a converted try off a lineout.

Marr pressed towards the end of the half but were unable to capitalise on their territorial advantage.

Marr started the second half strongly and after a number of phases Ethan Reilly went over to reduce Lomonds lead to 14-10. However poor midfield defence allowed Lomond through for a converted try to extend Lomonds lead to 21-10.

Marr then hit a purple patch and captain Rollo Press led by example to score two tries, the first from a kick and chase where he was in support to dive over, and the second a characteristic break and run in from 40 metres out. Both tries were converted by Paterson and Marr now had the lead by 24-21.

Marr had suffered injuries to two front row members, Keir Gaw and Jamie Anderson and their situation was further hit when afrer consultation with his linesman, the referee awarded a debatable penalty try for a 'no arms' tackle and also yellow carded Paterson. 24-28 to Lomond.

Despite being a man down Marr came back immediately and scored another try through Reilly. 29-28 to Marr. However, Lomond took advantage of the extra man and scored two tries in quick succession, one of which was converted, to regain the lead by 42-29. Marr had no time to get back into the match and the game ended with no further score. A thoroughly exciting match though Marr will feel that the game was there to be won. The U18s squad is young with most of the squad in fifth year. Hopefully a fresh cup challenge can be launched again next year. Special mention must be made of the senior sixth year squad members, especially captain Rollo Press, who have been a real encouragement and inspiration to the younger squad members.