Rugby: Perthshire lose 12-24 to Melrose

Apr 2 2010 by Johnathon Menzies, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

Perthshire 12 Melrose 24

Perthshire 12

Melrose24

PERTHSHIRE narrowly lost out to Melrose in front of a bumper crowd in the last eight of the Scottish Hydro Premier Cup.

The Eagles were confident of giving the Borders side a run for their money, despite the weekend Perth clash being the first time the Fair City side have made it to the last eight of the nationwide competition.

Man-of-the-match Garry Coull gave Shire the lead with a well-taken try.

Graeme Clow added the extra points courtesy of an accurate conversion, but Melrose quickly hit back with two tries of their own.

Gavin Bloice darted over the line in the corner to reduce the deficit to a slender two points, but Melrose scored once more – and kicked a further penalty – to close the game out and advance to the semi-finals.

After the match, coaches praised the Perthshire forwards for dominating their renowned opponents at set pieces.

They also singled-out Rory Carmichael for outstanding work marshalling the defence.

Special praise was also reserved for Allan Brown and his team for their dedication behind the scenes, making the historic day enjoyable on and off the pitch.

Shire face Hills tomorrow. The match is sponsored by Glenton Bruce Ltd.