Strathendrick v Waysiders Drumpellier Match preview

With two friendly squad fixtures behind them, good numbers at pre-season training and a couple of new faces in the squad, there is a real sense of anticipation as all of those involved with the Senior Men’s Teams look forward to the first match of the season, in the newly named Arnold Clark West Region Division 2. This coming Saturday, 24th August, Waysiders Drumpellier make the trip from Coatbridge to Fintry.

While the results of the two warm up matches, home to Oban and away to Annan, were positive with two narrow wins, it was the performances of all those involved in these games which is raising the excitement.

In addition to the returning Angus North and Ben Gibson, who last season played at Ayr and Stirling County respectively, there are a number of players who have graduated from last season’s U18 team to push for places in the 1st XV. Fergus Brown gave a commanding performance as stand off against Annan and also had a 100% kicking record with five conversions, while Mckinlay Paterson was given the Man of the Match award. Fraser Spence scored two tries against Oban. All of the new players added to the existing squad will, if available and injury free, offer a number of selection options.

Our playing shirt sponsors DS McG Ltd and Nicholson Farmers have continues their generous sponsorship and are this season joined by Greenbelt Ltd who have provided shorts and warm up tops. We are very much indebted to these organisations for this assistance. The issue of the “Doddie” MND hoodies to players making five 1st XV starts will continue thanks to the support of Stuart Paul. A new innovation, a Strathendrick man of the Match will be announced for all 1st and 2nd team league and cup games with a photograph carrying the sponsor logo – Duff Christmas Tree Farm – this sponsorship has been used to provide the additional “loss of earnings” insurance cover for 1st and 2nd team players.

There can be no doubt that Waysiders Drumpellier will offer a test, matches last season ended with one home win a piece. They are well known for having a strong pack that can wear down their opposition with well-drilled set piece plays and a good set of backs who can expose a weakness in any defence. Strathendrick will need to be at their best right from the first whistle and continue with no lapses of concentration if they are to achieve the result we are all hoping for.

This will also be the first competitive match for new coach Eddie Roche who has brought a renewed enthusiasm to the playing squad in recent weeks. Eddie has been consistent in emphasising that winning the first 2 games means little and that there is still much to work on for the more meaningful fixtures.

The hope is that the number of players available for selection continues to stay high so as the Club can regularly field two teams each Saturday – The 2nd XV play their first league fixture on 7th September when both senior teams travel to Helensburgh.

If you can, then get along to Fintry on Saturday and give the team your support – kick off is 3.00pm.

CJ & ER