Marr Rugby bounced back from last week’s defeat with a much improved and cohesive performance that delivered a narrow but significant win against Edinburgh Accies on their first visit to Fullarton.

Accies pack was the biggest set of forwards Marr has encountered so far this season. During phases of the match they effectively controlled the breakdown area, disrupting Marr’s attacking momentum and frequently winning turnover ball from the contact. However Marr’s smaller, pack led by skipper Stephan Adair (sponsored by TR Martin & Co), exceled in set piece play in particular the scrum where they were dominant.

From the start Accies quickly took the initiative and gaining a penalty within kicking range opened the scoring. Towards the end of the first quarter Marr started to enjoy some decent phases of possession and territory and were rewarded by a penalty converted by Colin Sturgeon. Accies quickly hit back to add a further penalty. In the face of some ferocious defensive play Marr found it difficult to get any real rhythm in attacking phases. Accies determination was rewarded with turnover ball that allowed quick counter attacks that took play deep back into Marr’s half. Just after 30 mins play Accies opted to kick a penalty to the corner and from the lineout their pack drove en masse over the line. As the bodies piled over and collapsed the referee awarded a try and after some debate amongst the visitors Jamie Sole was credited with the try which was converted.

Half time came with no further score leaving Marr facing an uphill struggle with a ten point deficit (3 -13) and Accies in confident mood.

From the start of the second half Marr gained the ascendency. Forwards and backs combined well to pressure Accies defence with repeated attacks. This forced the visitors into conceding penalties and just after the 50 minutes mark Colin Sturgeon reduced the deficit with two successful kicks. During the opening stages of the final quarter Marr started to cut loose. Conor Bickerstaff (sponsored by CCL Logistics) was released at pace from half way and as he closed on the try line was stopped five metres short by a last gasp try saving challenge. Marr’s pack continued to hold the upper hand at the set piece scrum and used this attacking platform to good effect. Injuries to Accies front row players meant the final quarter shifted to uncontested scrums. This helped take the pressure off Accies and cancelled out Marr’s advantage.

With less than ten minutes left Marr pressed towards the try line and were only prevented from scoring by some desperate defence. After several penalty infringements Accies were reduced 14 men through a yellow card. Marr took full advantage of the extra man and winning a scrum five metres out Scott Bickerstaff crashed through two tackles to power over the line and touch down for a converted try. This gave Marr the lead and in a nail biting final period Accies pushed and pushed to reclaim the advantage but were withheld by some of the best defensive play Marr has delivered this season. Winning possession Marr pressured Accies and gained another penalty within kicking range for Colin Sturgeon to stretch the narrow lead. Marr held on to close out the game and gain a valuable four points to add to their league tally.

The result means Marr remain joint top of the league and look forward to their next match a top of the table clash against Watsonians at Myreside.

Marr man of the match – Kris Kirk (sponsored by MOR Construction)

Marr scorers
Tries – Scott Bickerstaff (1)
Conversions – Colin Sturgeon (1)
Penalties – Colin Sturgeon (4)