Due to the wholesale changes within the 1st XV this season, coach, John Stewart, has had to start from scratch in trying to build a 2nd XV that will get back to competing at the top end of the Border Championship again as well as getting the players up to the level of pushing for a place in the 1sts.

This will no doubt prove to a difficult season but there were signs on Saturday that things are improving. Old campaigners, Andy Townsend, Keith Wallace and James Leslie and the slightly more youthful presence of Shane Corstorphine and Elgin Millar are still turning out to give a lead to some of the younger members of the squad that will stand them in good stead in seasons to come.

The match kicked off in glorious conditions for rugby although the aforementioned may beg to differ. Haddington started well enough with good ball retention and direct running causing the Jed boys no end of problems. The early pressure eventually told with Shane Corstorphine taking a short pass at the side of a ruck to burst through and touch down under the posts. Sax Ferguson added the extras for a 7 – 0 advantage. The lead didn’t last long, however, Jed collected a dropped pass in midfield and as Haddington got caught on their heels, the Borderers sneaked in out wide to score. The conversion was missed but Jed showed they weren’t here to just make up the numbers. 7 – 5. Jed increased the lead further before half time. From a lineout the ball was transferred wide and with two Haddington boys taking the same player, space was left for Jed to exploit on the outside. Still with a lot of work to do, Jed made it look easy as the Scarlets cover defence failed to stop the try.

Half Time: Haddington 7 – Jedforest 10

Haddington were playing towards the Club in the second half and similar to the first half, started strongly. Scrum half, James Jamison was always on his toes looking for the half gap whilst Graeme Dykes brought a directness to the backline with his bursting runs. This allowed the Scarlets to get their noses back in front again when the ball was shipped through the backline to winger, Alec Watt, who touched down for the Scarlets second try. 12 – 10.

This seemed to galvanise Jed and they had their best period, resulting in the Borderers taking the lead once more. A poor Haddington scrum led to a penalty and while the Scarlets dallied Jed took the quick tap to score out wide. This now took Jed 3 points ahead once more at 12 – 15.

Haddington got themselves into a great position with a 5metre scrum that should have led to the home side regaining the lead, however, indecision and borderline calls by the ref on whether Jed had encroached offside or not, allowed the Borderers to relieve pressure after several breenges towards their goal line.

With it seemed to go Haddington’s chance of winning the match as their intensity faded in the latter stages. Jed took full advantage with a fourth try to seal the win and the bonus point, although in fairness to Jed their overall play probably deserved the win.

Credit to Haddington who never gave up and the back row of Lars Hansen, Shane Corstorphine and Dan Barber were never far away from the action and deserved more from their day’s shift. Hopefully with a few more of the injured players returning to the fray in the not-too-distant future, things will improve further for the 2nds.

They have another opportunity at home this weekend as they take on Peebles. 3pm KO.

September 29, 2009
Haddington 2nds Match Report

Haddington 2nds v Jed 2nds

At the beginning of the season you would have been forgiven for thinking, would we get a 2s squad out, never mind putting a squad together that could put in a challenge in the borders league? The 2s are now starting to settle, thanks to consistency now showing in the squad and with a few faces still to return from injury there is a quiet optimism starting to grow.

The game on Saturday was played in great weather, we kicked off and straight away had Jed under pressure with our forwards and backs combining well, with Hansen getting some clean ball and carrying well into the opposition 22. The forwards going in and clearing well for Jamieson to receive the ball and crash over for the first try of the game, Sax converted.

Jed like any Borders team came straight back at us, running hard and with a neat chip over the top the winger gathered to go over for Jeds first score, conversion missed.

The game seemed to hit a bit of a lull with us working hard, but giving away silly penalties and allowing Jed field position. However, a good break from Donaldson in the centre allowed back up on to the Jed 22 and with clean ball we spread it wide for Wilson to score in the corner. Sax converted again.

Jed once again using a good kicking game kept us pinned back, they managed to get into our 22 where we managed to turnover and win the ball at the break down, but through indiscipline the ref gave a penalty which Jed nudged to the corner. Some good solid defence drove them back and with a lack of options the Jed fullback slotted over a well taken drop goal.

Once again Haddington pushed forward, the pack driving and mauling well with Jed falling off tackles, the ball was slipped wide for Jamieson to give the pop to Donaldson coming in on a fantastic angle to run through and score a well deserved try. Yes once again Sax converted.

Half time 21 – 8

Jed had obviously been given an earful from their coach as they came firing out for the 2nd half, with some good tactical kicking and forward play they managed to suck in our defence and spread the ball wide for the winger to run in for the try. Conversion missed.

The game became a bit fragmented with neither side doing enough to break down the others defence and errors starting to have more of an impact for both sides.

Haddington took the opportunity to extend their lead by another 3 points through Sax after some poor indiscipline from the Jed forwards.

The game was a little scrappy now but Jed started gaining a bit more field position. A poor refereeing decision let Jed take a quick tap which took us to our own line, defence disorganised Jed managed to drive over for the last score of the game.

Final score 24 - 20

This was the perfect game to get us ready for the start of the Borders league next week and a big thanks to all those guys who are coming to training and making themselves available for selection.

March 01, 2009
2nds Match Report

Melrose 2nds 18 v Haddington 2nds 14

Haddington made the journey to the Greenyards on Saturday morning needing a victory to finish in the top four of the Border Championship. Sadly, they came up just short but nobody could fault the effort the boys put in and, although disappointed, can look forward to next season where they know that they’ll be up there competing with the top Border clubs yet again.

Haddington had to ring the changes in the pack with regulars, Simon Ward, James Weddell, Bob Hamilton and Andy Townsend all missing, however, there were no complaints because the boys who came in played their part in a gutsy team performance.

The Scarlets took the early initiative and after centre, Mike Legget had hit-up from a short pass, Melrose were penalised for infringing at the ruck. Nick Bell stroked the ball through the uprights and Haddington were 3 – 0 up with only 3 minutes on the clock. Bell soon increased the lead to 6 – 0 when the referee reversed a penalty decision in the Melrose half as the Borderers discipline let them down. Melrose came more in to the match after the early setbacks and a loose Haddington scrum led to a sustained spell of Melrose pressure that eventually allowed their second-row to dive over near the posts. The conversion was added to put the home side ahead for the first time at 7 – 6.

On 30 minutes, Haddington stunned Melrose with a try out of the blue. From a lineout just inside their own half, the ball was thrown to the tail, back-rower, Andy Scott gathered and took off towards the Melrose midfield, after brushing aside would-be tacklers he then decided to try and out-run the Melrose speedsters in a foot-race to the line, which, to the surprise of the home support, he managed with consummate ease, (or at least it looked that way) for a magnificent individual try from 50 metres. Bell’s conversion went just wide but Haddington had regained the lead at 11 – 7 and it stayed that way for the rest of the half.

Half Time: Melrose 7 – Haddington 11

Haddington's fear in the second half was that they might run out of steam, with 1st World War veteran, Keith Wallace, having to play the entire match at prop and 30+ players, Willie Thomson and Shane Corstorphine having to battle manfully against a spirited Melrose in the wide expanses of the Greenyards pitch, however, this they did with only a few ‘time-outs’ to recharge the batteries throughout.

Melrose took the lead again with only 10 minutes of the second half played. The move had started in their own ’22 area and after several phases, was finished off with an excellent try at the other end. Haddington’s defence had been strong all day with midfielders, Euan Herkes and Mike Legget stopping the Melrose runners at source, but if they did manage to break through, full-back Lance Robinson, punched way above his size with some thumping tackles to assist the boys in front of him.

As the match swung back and forth, Haddington again took the lead with another sweet penalty from Bell to open up a two point lead at 14 – 12, although you could sense that there was going to be more twists before the end. Haddington were showing signs of tiring going into the last quarter and only a Robinson tap-tackle stopped Melrose from scoring a certain try, however, there was a slight bit of fortune that allowed Melrose to take the lead again as they were allowed to take a quick throw-in, even though the ball had been caught by a spectator, this move led to Haddington being penalised for slowing the ball down and, having missed a few kicks earlier, Melrose made no mistake with the vital one to put the home side a point ahead at 15 – 14. Haddington struggled to get into the Melrose ‘red-zone’ to try and snatch victory by way of a penalty but as it turned out, Melrose were to add a final penalty on the stroke of full-time. 18 – 14.

It’s been a difficult couple of weeks for the players with these key matches having to be played at short notice, however, Coach, John Stewart was proud of his boys for their gutsy performance and although tinged with disappointment at the outcome, couldn’t have asked for any more in commitment and effort, although in fairness to Melrose, they probably didn’t deserve to lose the match.

Congratulations to Bob Hamilton and wife, Marion, who were delighted at the arrival of their new baby son on Friday night, Fraser Gavin Hamilton, at the Borders General. I’m sure Wally will be keen to congratulate Bob as well but probably only after showing him the detailed Melrose stud marks nicely woven down his back after his 80 minute appearance!

February 22, 2009
2NDS Match Report

Gala A 17 v Haddington 2nds 13

Haddington 2nds came up just short against top-of-the-table Gala on Saturday in the Border Championship. The conditions were blustery as kick-off approached, however, unfortunately for the Scarlets it wasn’t the weather that would cost them dearly as the match unfolded, rather a referee who seemed intent on penalising the visitors at every opportunity whilst turning a blind eye to any similar offences that the home side may have incurred.

Nick Bell had put the Scarlets 3 – 0 in front after No.8, Andy Scott, had harried the visitors into holding on in the tackle following his kick through. Gala responded with a try from a driven lineout near to the Haddington line on 15 minutes to go 5 – 3 up. Midway through the first half Andy Scott was again in the thick of things before accepting a loose pass from a Gala player and then showing a neat turn of pace to evade the cover defence and touch down. Bell added the conversion to regain the lead at 10 – 5 for the Scarlets. It stayed that way until half time and with the wind favouring the Scarlets in the second half things were looking promising, however, no-one could have predicted the penalty count that heavily favoured the home side after the break, ultimately costing Haddington any real hopes of a win.

Gala scored two tries in the opening quarter of the second half, one an interception whilst their second try came soon after following an improvised pass out of the tackle by their centre, which put them 17 – 10 ahead, although credit to Haddington as they battled on against the odds and were rewarded with another Bell penalty to reduce the deficit to 17 – 13. With 15 minutes still to play Haddington were still in with a chance of winning, however, they continued to struggle for any continuity throughout with the referee’s interpretations of the laws ensuring they were never able to gain any foothold in the opposition territory.

Final Score: Gala A 17 - Haddington 2nds 13

Up front the pack all played particularly well whilst Bell controlled play from stand-off and was ably assisted by Ross King who kicked astutely from hand all day, sadly though, the team could only be consoled with a losing bonus point for all their efforts.

December 27, 2008
2NDS Match Report

North Berwick 5 v Haddington 2nds 47

Haddington 2nds ended the year with another convincing display to overpower near-neighbours North Berwick by 7 tries to 1. Coach, John Stewart had a few players unavailable due to the festivities but managed to draft in a couple of freeloaders in need of some much-needed match practice.

The Scarlets started well and took the game to North Berwick with the forwards laying the platform for the big Haddington backs to make inroads at every opportunity. Haddington struck first after only 10 minutes when ‘strongman’, Alan Laidlaw, ripped the ball from North Berwick’s clutches and offloaded to the supporting Callum Mark to scamper home and score against his former team. Nick Bell converted for a 7 – 0 lead.

A few minutes later the impressive Nick Bell was next on the scoresheet when he spotted a gap as North Berwick rushed up and, once in behind, he left the home full back for dead to touch down under the posts for a great individual effort. Bell added the extras for a 14 – 0 lead. The game was over as a contest with barely 15 minutes gone, the forwards had again made the hard yards, centre Mark, hit the line at pace before drawing the cover defence and releasing winger, Herkes to barge over. 19 – 0.

The Scarlets then took the foot of the gas and North Berwick had their best spell leading up to half time with their efforts being rewarded with a good try by their winger.

Half Time: North Berwick 5 – Haddington 2nds 19

Haddington restored order in the 2nd half and with only 5 minutes on the clock, stand off, Bell turned creator when he again ghosted through the smallest of gaps before unselfishly feeding Mark to score his second of the day. Bell again converted for a 26 – 5 lead. Midway through the second period, sub Andrew Maddox, was next to touch down as he was on the shoulder to finish off a fine move involving forwards and backs that had North Berwick struggling to contain. Bell again converted. 33 – 5. Herkes then snared his second try by running a great line off Ben Inglis at the base of the scrum 5 metres from the North Berwick tryline.

Herkes then outdid himself on 30 minutes with his third try of the day as the floodgates were beginning to open. As North Berwick tried to run out of defence, the burly wing-cum-centre, intercepted the pass and ran home unopposed. Bell fittingly finished the scoring with his conversion for a personal haul of 17 points, Herkes not far behind with 15 from his three tries. The referee blew early to allow the annual school game against the Puffin Gannets to follow on.

This was the kind of test the players needed before they play a crucial league fixture against Peebles next Saturday at Neilson Park. On this showing everyone played their part in a good team performance with captain Willie Thomson leading from the front and Nick Bell running the show in the backs from outside half, more of the same will be required next week. Coach, John Stewart was later heard to be delighted with the effort and thought that MacDonald’s goal was worthy of winning any game!

December 17, 2008
2nds Match Report - 13/12/08

Haddington 2nds 28 v Jedforest RFC 2nds 10 - Border Championship

Saturday saw Jedburgh travel to a very wet and dreich looking Neilson Park.

Haddington had suffered a couple of early blows losing influential players, full back Mike Legget and openside Andy Scott to flu and injury, whilst Captain Thomson was missing in action escorting his Beau to a wedding up North - (massive fine!) and Dale Gordon on holiday. Back in from the cold came Bell, Herkes, Weston and Inglis, with Chalmers, Baird and Maddox ready to spring from the bench.

Haddington again started a game slowly allowing Jed to get a foothold and do most of the attacking in the early stages. It took some resolute defending to keep the visitors from breaking through. Bell, "Captain" Dykes and Herkes matched everything that was aimed their way and the back three of Watt, King and Ferguson, covered, supported and enhanced all their midfield did.

An early discrepancy at the breakdown allowed Jed to take the lead 0-3, but Haddington were soon back in the game as Bell replied with a similar penalty from a tight angle 3-3. Haddington at last began to come into the game with Weston directing the forwards and the decision to play Munro in the second row was paying off as he and his front five colleagues were showing well in the tight exchanges. Haddington started to dominate open play, and, for the first time in a long time controlled several phases without mistake. Good interplay took Haddington from half way, deep into Jed’s 22 and from a scrum the forwards took ball on several times to then powerfully cross the line, with Simon Ward, the man who likes to dabble with animals, earning his side 5 points giving Haddington a deserved 8-3 lead.

Haddington then let Jed back into the game as the big centre crashed three poor tackle attempts to go under the posts. The conversion was good and Jed led again 10-8. Bell restored the Scarlets lead with a great penalty effort and the half closed 11-10.

After a few "honest" words at the break, Haddington turned to face the elements in the second half and took the game to the visitors with some great inter-passing rugby with the forwards creating a solid base for Bell, and in particular, Dykes, Herkes and Paul Pritchard to make searing breaks into enemy territory. A tremendous break from the home 22, saw the ball fed out through the backs and Pritchard storming up in support took the ball deep into Jeds half. The visitors were scrambling to keep up and infringed at the ruck giving Haddington a penalty 30m out. As Bell shouted for the ball, quick thinking by Munro, (Ha ha - yes GREIG MUNRO!!), tapped the ball and headed to the tryline as the Jed players argued with the ref. Mons scarpered over for a great individual effort taking the scores to 16-10. Bell added the extras and Haddington were in the driving seat 18-10.

Haddingtons fitness, determination and control was causing Jed big problems and some training ground moves were making big cuts into Jed’s defence. Bell, playing very well in his new role at 10, stroked another penalty to extend the lead 21-10.

To cap a great afternoons work, a move from a lineout in the home 22, saw 11 phases of play then Pritchard charged into Jed’s 22, offloaded to Dykes who popped on to Herkes who crashed over the line for a great team score. Bell again added the extras and the match was ended 28-10.

All the hard work the boys have been putting in at training is paying off now, and I could not have asked for anymore - maybe a bonus point!!. To play like this with so many missing in atrocious conditions says a lot about the spirit in this squad at the moment.

November 26, 2008
A 2nds Match Report!

Kelso 23 Haddington 18

Haddington travelled down to Poynder Park in the knowledge that Kelso 1sts had no game this weekend so they would face a stern test. The Scarlets had a few new faces from the Colts, Atkins, Spence and Maddox, with Chalmers, Watt and Simon Spence returning to the squad..

Kelso started the game playing at a fast pace and looking to take the game to Haddington, however Haddington were more than a match for them and soon had Kelso on the back foot. On eight minutes, good series of phases saw Kelso infringe at the ruck and Nick Bell stepped up to give the visitors the lead 0-3.

On 10 minutes, Kelso were pressing the visitors line with a series of scrums and lineouts 5m's from the line. Tremendous defensive pressure by Haddington forced Kelso back and as the midfield guddled the ball, young Sam Atkins took the ball and raced 65m's to score under the posts. Bell missed the kick but the Reds led 0-8.

Kelso were next to score as they worked possession up the middle - Haddington missed two tackles and the Antipodean centre went under the posts. The lead was now cut to a point.. 7-8

On 20 minutes, Haddington were again pressurising Kelso with quick and hard defensive patterns. Dyksey managed to rob his opposite number and send in Mike Legget to score under the posts from 40m. Bell added the extras and Haddington now led 7-13.

Five minutes later Kelso scored from forward drives close in from a scrum 5. 14-15.

Just on half time, Bell again extended the lead with a well taken distance penalty… 14-18 halftime.

The second half saw Kelso play ‘keep ball’ for long periods and the pressure gained them three penalties from which they would take the points. Haddington defended very well and had chances to work the score board however the odd pass or bounce would not go their way. The game finished 23-18.

Although beaten, this was one of the 2nds best performances on Border turf and typifies the spirit amongst the squad whilst the experience gained by the young Colts will certainly stand them in good stead for senior rugby next season.

November 14, 2008
2nds Match Result

Musselburgh 0 v Haddington 12

Haddington 2nds managed to squeeze out a win against local rivals Musselburgh 2nds under the lights at Stoneyhill on Thursday night. Neither side could gain any foothold in a dour match not helped by the referee who blew early on most occasions rather than playing advantage, which would have possibly allowed for a more entertaining game.

Haddington led 7 - 0 at the break after Graham Dykes had bulldozed his way through the Musselburgh midfield. Ross King converted. The hosts had their best spell at the start of the second half, however, after failing to turn their pressure into points, Haddington settled the match late on in the half with a touchdown by Paul Pritchard.

November 04, 2008
2nd XV UPDATE
Haddington 2nds sit menacingly in 2nd spot at the moment after eight matches played of the Border Championship. A convincing win of 102-0 against hapless Berwick on Saturday should boost player confidence in their efforts to achieve a top four target, which will ensure an exciting semi-final place at the end of the season.

October 14, 2008
2nd XV Result
The 2nd XV won their home match versus Melrose 33 points to 10 on Saturday to move them into 3rd place in the Border Championship.

September 14, 2008
Haddington 2nds Match Report

Haddington 2nds 25 v Selkirk 2nds 19

Haddington 2nds looked to maintain their unbeaten start to the league season with a tough fixture against a resurgent Selkirk side that was much changed from last season and also unbeaten in the league so far.

Selkirk showed straight away that they wanted to play a fast open game and the home side struggled to stay with them in the early exchanges. A clear overlap was squandered for Selkirk during this period before a fine break by scrum half, Dale Gordon eventually had the visitors scrambling in defence at the other end. Callum Mark was next to worry Selkirk as he turned defence into attack with a searing break from his own 22 that took him deep into the opposition half before the visitors were deemed guilty of killing the ball in the ruck, leading to a penalty and the first points on the board for the Scarlets. Lance Robinson slotting the ball between the uprights for a 3 – 0 lead.

Selkirk deservedly claimed the first try on the half hour mark with a driven lineout by the forwards, and with the conversion added the borderers now led 7 – 3. Robinson cut the deficit to 7 – 6 on the stroke of half time following another penalty.

Haddington seemed to up the ante at the start of the second half, after coach, John Stewart, gave the team a stern talking to at half time. As the Scarlets took the game to Selkirk, they were left stunned however, when a turnover ball led to a breakout from the visitors 22 and after some great interplay Selkirk touched down at the other end leaving the home side startled and facing an uphill struggle at 6 – 12.

Midway through the 2nd half an excellent forwards drive from a lineout produced the quality ball the backs had hoped for as the ball was quickly transferred wide for full-back, Elgin Miller, to dive over. Robinson kicked the conversion for Haddington to once again take the lead at 13 – 12. Haddington’s next try was a carbon copy of the first with a driven lineout causing the visitors all sorts of problems before the ball was quickly moved out to centre, Donald Snodgrass, who marked his return from injury with a fine try, whilst leaving the Selkirk midfielders in his wake. Ross King added the extras for a 20 – 12 lead.

With 5 minutes remaining the Scarlets put a kick into the visitors half and were caught napping as Selkirk exploited the open spaces to grab another try out of nothing and with the conversion added, Selkirk were now only a point adrift at 20 - 19.

It was to be the home side that finished the match in style however, after Mark had again got in behind the Selkirk rearguard before leaving it up to the forwards to rumble over after a few drives close to the line. Craig Adam, also making his comeback from injury, came up with the ball to claim the score. The conversion was missed but Haddington had won a highly entertaining match 25 - 19 against a resolute Selkirk team.

Next Saturday sees the 2nds travel to Mansfield Park to face last season's champions, Hawick.

August 31, 2008
Haddington 2nds Match Report

Berwick 2nds 0 v Haddington 2nds 76

After a seventh month absence of league rugby the 2nd XV kicked off their Borders 2nd XV championship campaign with a trip south of the border to take on Berwick. Returning to league rugby was always going to be tricky after such a long lay-off but Coach John Stewart ensured that everyone was focussed on the task in hand.

Climbing high to claim the kick off Andy Townsend looked about half his age, which coincidentally made him older than 60% of the team. Haddington took the game to Berwick straight from the kick off with surging runs off the rucks and mauls by the fired up forwards. Indiscipline seemed to be high on the agenda for both teams early on and the sound of the referees whistle was prominent in the first ten minutes. Elgin Millar was first to cross for Haddington, the benefactor of a good blindside move between No.8 Ben Ingles and scrum half Dale Gordon before releasing the South African winger on a fine run down the touchline.

Haddington were now playing with confidence and weren’t afraid to offload out the tackle. Several more tries followed as Haddington started to take control of the match throughout the first half. Suffering from a twisted ankle Greg Munro made way for another youngster, Archie Baird, who now made it 6 players on the park that were eighteen or younger.

Thirty minutes in and Haddington had used the opportunity to give everyone a decent run out and several more subs were introduced. By half-time, Haddington were home and dry with a comfortable lead. Ensuring complacency didn’t set in a stern word was had about the style of rugby being played and more structure and control was demanded during the second period.

Complacency certainly didn’t set in and Haddington were soon crossing the Berwick line yet again. Leading the try rout was 17-year-old scrum half Dale Gordon with a well-deserved hat trick. After the game a debate did rage on as to whether or not he should buy a jug of beer. Performance was always going to be vital in the first league game and all twenty players involved raised their game, particularly Mike Legget who was played away from his favoured position of back row to inside centre, showing that piano movers can occasionally play a tune.

Full time and Haddington came away from Scremerston with a thoroughly deserved 76-0 victory. Stand out performances from Ben Ingles at No.8 and scrum half Dale Gordon. But ‘moment of the day’ goes to Bob Hamilton whose passion for Morris-dancing was fully exposed when he was “warming up his knees”?!

Try Scorers: Dale Gordon (3), Ewan Chalmers (2), Ian Watt (2), Ben Ingles (1), Elgin Miller (1), James Weddell (1), Colin Wood (1), Peter Wilson (1).

Conversions: Lance Robinson (6)

August 13, 2008
2nd XV Match Report

Haddington 2nd XV 21 v Ross High 1st XV 0

Haddington 2nds had a comfortable win over local rivals, Ross High at the Knox Academy playing fields. Both teams struggled initially with the wet conditions, meaning an error strewn first twenty minutes, however it was the Reds who took the initiative over the next quarter with two well taken tries. Firstly, Bobby Dykes barged over from a scrum near to the Ross line, before Greig Munro grabbed a second after a fine run from Dale Gordon opened up the Ross defence. Lance Robinson and Ross King kicked the conversions for a 14 - 0 half time lead.

The second half carried on in much the same vain as the first with Ross High struggling to get any patterns into their play, whilst Haddington always looked the more likely to score as they moved the ball wide looking for the gaps. The third try came from inside the Reds half with some great interplay from Ian Watt, Graham Crawford and Brett Chicotka that took play up to the Ross 22 area before Crawford took the final pass to breeze home. King converted for a 21 - 0 lead. A fourth try looked inevitable as Dykes broke free, but a one-handed pass from Chicotka, usually a strength for a Yank in American Football, let down the former quarter-back on this occasion as the tryline loomed.

Final Score: Haddington 2nd XV 21 v Ross High 1st XV 0

Coach, John Stewart used all 25 players who were keen to be involved on the night, with several catching the eye as next weeks local derby against Dunbar concludes the 2nds warm up fixtures prior to the Border Championship. Tonight the 1st XV tackle Premier One side, Edinburgh Accies at Knox Playing Fields. 7.15 KO.

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March 17, 2008
Haddington 2nds Match Report

Haddington 2nd XV 13 v Dunbar 6

Haddington had an early kick off on Saturday against local rivals Dunbar with both teams keen to get a game after several weeks of inactivity throughout the Six Nations campaign.

Haddington took the lead with only five minutes on the clock after Bob Jamieson was taken out, a la Hugo Southwell style, whilst chasing his kick through. Greig Taylor made no mistake with the penalty. 3 – 0. Dunbar were less successful with their pots at goal, missing twice in the first half hour. Going into the last ten minutes of the half, the Scarlets opened up Dunbar out wide through Jamieson who put Bobby Dykes one-on-one with the full back, meaning there was only going to be one winner, as he waltzed past and in under the posts. Taylor added the conversion for a deserved 10 – 0 lead at half time.

The match was strewn with small errors, which was not surprising given the player’s lack of match practice in recent weeks, and with a referee that got a whistle for a Christmas present, the game never flowed for any length of time. Donnellan kicked two penalties to haul Dunbar back into the match at 10 – 6, but Taylor had the final say with another well-struck penalty to seal the match at 13 – 6.

There were several good individual performances from the home side, led admirably again by captain and No.8, Willie T, and with youngsters Ben Ingles, Ian Watt (yes, another one), Callum Elliot, Greig Taylor, Nick Bell and Ross King all showing promising touches the senior squad looks to be in a healthy state for the foreseeable future.

January 27, 2008
Haddington 2nd XV Match Report

Berwick 2nds 0 v Haddington 2nds 46

Haddington went into this match knowing that a win would guarantee second place in the Border Championship regardless of results elsewhere. The 2nds achieved this on Saturday with room to spare against bottom side, Berwick, however, they were made to work hard for every score as the hosts defended stoutly throughout.

The Scarlets faced the strong wind in the 1st half and looked to play a high tempo game from the start with the forwards carrying a lot of ball and the backs searching for openings at every opportunity. The standard of play from Haddington was sublime at times with the offloading and ball retention causing havoc in the Berwick ranks. It took 10 minutes for the breakthrough with good lead up play initially through Captain Willie T and the evergreen, Andy Townsend before Callum Cockburn (CC) combined with Ian Henderson (Hendo) to send the latter racing in under the sticks. Greig Taylor made no mistake with the conversion for a 7 – 0 lead.

The next try on 22 minutes was probably the best try ever seen on a rugby field, barbarian style, Bob Hamilton collected a loose pass on the halfway line, looked up and saw two Berwick players in front of him, he chipped over them, collected his chip, dummied two more defenders before out-sprinting their full-back and winger to score in the corner from the 22m line. Greig Taylor sadly missed the conversion.

12 – 0.

The forwards continued to dominate possession with the back-row of Willie T, Paddy Brown and Simon Ward complimenting each other both in attack and defence. Two more tries soon followed with CC next on the scoresheet and Paddy Brown notching the fourth to also wrap up the bonus point. There was just enough time for one more try in the first half which was claimed by stand-off, Lance Robinson after the forwards had sucked in the Berwick defenders. Greig Taylor added the extras.

Half-Time 29 – 0

It was 20 minutes into the 2nd half before the Scarlets could break down the home side again and it was CC who claimed his second after Robinson had created the space for the burly winger to barge over. Taylor kicked the conversion to stretch the lead to 36 – 0. Euan Herkes, who linked well all day with fellow centre Nick Bell, made the next score after he retrieved a loose kick from Berwick and counter attacked with interest, as the ball was put through several pairs of hands, Ross King straightened to finish the move off with another touchdown. 41 – 0. The final score couldn’t have been scripted better as Captain Willie T picked up from the base of the scrum and dived over to end the scoring at 46 – 0 and bring down the curtain on a highly successful Border Championship campaign by securing second place.

Some of the play throughout the match was a tremendous advert for the way this team has grown in confidence throughout the season and they would surely have pushed Hawick for top place if they had come together sooner at the start of the season, although no one can take anything away from this team who have deservedly finished above many of their more illustrious opponents.

Missing yesterday were James Weddell and Fraser Weston (injured), Gordon McNeill who returned to Australia, Allan Laidlaw, Graham Dykes (unavailable) and Graham Crawford who has stepped up to the 1s, but have all made a significant contribution this season.

Credit and thanks must also go to Davy Munro for running touch and John Wood as Team Manager, which enables the players to focus solely on the rugby.

Finally, well done and congratulations to Coach, John Stewart, ably assisted in recent weeks by Bob Jamieson, who have developed a group of players with a winning mentality as well as ensuring a strength in depth at the Club which would be the envy of many Premier One sides.

Squad:

Backs-Ian Henderson, Ewan Chalmers, Nick Bell, Euan Herkes, Callum Cockburn, Lance Robinson, Greig Taylor, Ross King, Eck Watt.

Forwards-Alan Bell, Greig Munro, Bob Hamilton, Brett Chicotka, Andy Townsend, Paddy Brown, Willie Thomson, Simon Ward, Niall Fairgrieve, Colin Wood, Callum Elliot.

p.s. the try from Bob Hamilton didn’t quite happen the way it was described but that’s the way he saw it in his world and who’s to argue?!

January 08, 2008
Haddington 2nds Match Report

Haddington 2ndXV 41 v Kelso 2nd XV 17

Haddington 2nds continued their excellent form in the Border Championship with a convincing 41 – 17 win over Kelso at Neilson Park on Saturday.

After a lacklustre opening period where the Home side found themselves 17 points down in as many minutes, they gradually got their act together and trailed only 17 – 10 at the break. It was all one-way traffic after the interval with the Scarlets racking up 31 points without reply. Top try scorer on the day was Ian ‘Hendo’ Henderson with three.

This leaves Haddington with one match to play against Berwick on 26th January where a win will guarantee second spot in the League.

December 30, 2007
Haddington 2nd XV Match Report

Dunbar 10 v Haddington 2nd XV 31

Haddington 2nds probably went into the match as slight favourites, mainly due to their recent form in the Border Championship this season, however, Dunbar never take a local derby lightly and the chance to put one over their local rivals will no doubt have added to their motivation before the match.

Haddington have built a strong squad this season with Coach John Stewart bringing a wealth of experience to the team and with the recent acquisition of Graham ‘Bob’ Jamieson to run the Backs, things are looking bright for the development of the player’s in the squad.

The Haddington team had a strong look of youth and experience about it with the welcome return of stand-off Jamie Peters getting his first run-out in two months, whilst Mark Morrison also got some much-needed game time following his injury.

The match kicked off in near perfect conditions for a winter’s afternoon and it was Haddington who gained the early territorial advantage, although they were unable to seriously trouble the Dunbar line. It was no surprise that both sides looked ring-rusty early doors as they seemed to nurse Christmas hangovers with Haddington most guilty of trying to do too much as individuals when their teamwork has been the hallmark of their success in the Border Championship.

The Haddington pack looked to have the upper-hand over the Home eight in the tight exchanges and Peters ran the show in the Backs, however, Dunbar, through some dogged defence and the boot of their stand-off, kept Haddington at bay.

It was Dunbar who took the lead on 20 minutes with their first real spell of attacking play in the Scarlets 22 and having driven the lineout, moved the ball quickly wide for their winger to touchdown in the corner to go 5 – 0 in front. This came as a surprise to the visitors, however, probably served as a wake up call they needed to shake off the cobwebs. Spurred on by No.8 and Captain, Willie Thomson, the Scarlets eventually got their reward on the stroke of half-time after good work by the forwards created the space for centre Nick Bell to scorch through a gap and score the try Haddington’s play deserved.

Half-Time 5 –5
A few honest words were spoken during the break that seemed to galvanise Haddington and the second half had barely kicked off when they had increased the lead. Paddy Brown made the hard yards before simple hands along the backline allowed Graham Crawford to finish things off. Peters missed another conversion to keep his ex-colleagues in the match. 10 – 5.

Haddington took control at this stage and went further ahead after great work by Brett Chicotka at a ruck sent Herkes bursting through before offloading to Crawford to show his finishing prowess after rounding the cover defence. Peters found his kicking boots to add the extras before being hastily subbed and wrapped up in cotton wool ready for more arduous matches that lie ahead! 17 – 5.

The Scarlets continued to press and it was prop, Dougie Orr, who deservedly got the next try after driving over from close range. Greig Taylor took over the kicking duties and made no mistake with the conversion. 24 – 5.

Midway through the second half, Dunbar broke through some weak tackling to score their second try and serve warning that they were not finished yet, however, Haddington through Weston, who was an injury doubt prior to the match having done a warm-up, put a delightful chip for scrum half Taylor to gather and touch down for the final score of the match. Taylor converted his own try and Haddington won convincingly in the end by 31 – 10.

This match will have provided both sets of Coaches with exactly the kind of workout required before they return to competitive action in their upcoming league matches, although, Haddington will be more satisfied with the end result.

December 10, 2007
Haddington 2nd XV Match Report

Haddington 34 v Selkirk 11

Haddington scored yet another resounding victory in the Border championship on Saturday, scoring the full compliment of 5 points against Selkirk to sustain their firm grip on second place behind leaders Hawick. Both teams were much changed from their first encounter at Philiphaugh and showed this with the quality of rugby being played by both sides.

Haddington kicked off towards the Clubhouse and it was fairly even for the first ten minutes until scrum half Greig Taylor spotted a hole in behind the Selkirk defence, he put in a measured kick for the onrushing Euan Herkes, who still had work to do to score, however, he made it look easy by gathering the ball and touching down in the one movement to claim the first points of the day. The conversion was missed but the Scarlets led 5 – 0.

Selkirk were not for giving in and went ahead 6 – 5 through their full back, who kicked two penalties on 20 and 25 minutes following some good lead up play, however, Haddington always had the edge in the set-pieces and had backs that looked dangerous whenever they had the ball, meaning it was only a matter of time before they cut loose.

Five minutes before half-time, a penalty kick to the corner allowed the forwards to take control and as they drove the lineout, Selkirk infringed to stop a certain try, giving the referee no alternative but to award the penalty try. Taylor made no mistake with the conversion sending the Scarlets into the break at 12 – 6 in front.

Half-time 12 – 6.

The second half was barely a minute old when a speculative kick through wasn’t dealt with by Selkirk and Neil Watt followed up superbly to touch down for the home sides’ third try. This rocked Selkirk and Haddington started to put the squeeze on them with Herkes in midfield making big dents in the Selkirk rearguard and a back row of Brown, Thomson and Morrison totally dominant in open play. Sub ‘Chippy’ Fairgrieve was also to the fore as Selkirk struggled to contain the rampant Reds. Taylor kicked another penalty to push the score on to 20 – 6 after 50 minutes.

The next try was not long in-coming after a pick up by No.8 Thomson from a scrum close to the Selkirk line led to another forwards try with second row Brett Chicotka deservedly coming up with the ball, although young Munro doing his best to claim it. Taylor was again impressive with the boot for a healthy 27 – 6 lead going into the last quarter.

Herkes, who had caused problems all afternoon, got his second try with a timely intrusion into the line, bursting through at pace, yes pace, to score under the posts. Taylor again nailed the conversion for a 34 – 6 margin. As full time approached Selkirk got a consolation score their overall play deserved, although they still had to work hard for it with Ewan Chalmers never giving in with some great defensive chores.

Full Time 34 - 11
The 2nd XV are playing with a lot of confidence at the moment and no longer fear the border Clubs’ reputations. The only sour note that marred the match was the sight of Willie T and Greig Munro trying to kick a rugby ball! Foreights!

December 04, 2007
Haddington 2nds match Report

Haddington 2nds 39 v Gala 2nds 10

Haddington started this match with a number of changes from the team that won convincingly at the “Greenyards” last week. Rhodri Thomas returned to 1st XV duty alongside a deserved call up to the top side for Graham Crawford. With both Willie T and Andy Townsend unavailable, there was some concern on the touchline that the loss of such influential players against a strong Gala side, sitting just a point below Haddington in the league but with a game in hand, might have some effect on the team performance. However, no one told the players! Haddington took the game to Gala right from the kick of with straight running, good hands and commendable support. After an extended period of pressure Gala infringed at the ruck. Greg Taylor slotted the penalty to give Haddington a well-deserved 3 point lead.

Haddington 3 Gala 0

Haddington had learned their lesson from last week and were secure under some excellent restarts. With Greig Munro and Patrick Brown to the fore, Haddington charged back upfield. Haddington cleverly varied their play bringing in both forward drives and moving the ball wide. On 12 minutes, quick ruck ball was moved out to Fraser Weston, the stand off bringing in Euan Herkes on a scissors move. Haddington’s unstoppable force careered towards the Gala line. Unfortunately Gala forgot to bring their immovable object and Herkes clattered through several tackles before crossing the line to touchdown for Haddington’s first try. Greg Taylor missed the difficult conversion

Haddington 8 Gala 0

Gala started to create pressure of their own but solid defence from the Scarlet’s with wing forward Simon Ward putting in some great hits kept their line intact. Mid-way through the first half Haddington secured quick ruck ball on the half way line. The ball was moved right. A miss pass from Weston to Bell gave the centre sufficient time to get his pass away to the supporting Jamieson, who was having a fine Haddington debut at full back, creating the gap for the full back to penetrate the Gala defence. The full back timed his pass perfectly to put winger Alex Watt in at the corner for a terrific three-quarters score. Taylor complemented the score with a superb touchline conversion.

Haddington 15 Gala 0

Gala were struggling to find an answer to the forward breenges from Weddell , Laidlaw and Hamilton and with Wood and Chickota controlling the lineouts Gala became more and more frustrated. A further ruck infringement gave Greg Taylor the opportunity to further stretch the score with a second well struck penalty.

Haddington 18 Gala 0

Nearing the end of the first period Gala finally started to mount pressure on the home line. With their big hooker making in-roads into the Scarlets defence it seemed only a matter of time before the gaps appeared. Haddington kept knocking back the maroon attackers but conceded a number of penalties for hands in the ruck and not rolling away. Indeed the home team were rather fortunate not to incur a yellow card for their misdemeanours. Instead Gala lost patience and took a simple penalty goal in front of the posts, converted by their No 15.

Haddington 18 Gala 3.

This set back seemed to spur on the home side and the forwards drove into the heart of the Gala defence, winning another eminently kickable penalty. However, instead of taking the 3 points, the ball was kicked to the corner. With a confident line out take, the Haddington 8 laid siege to the Gala line. Time and again they were denied by ferocious Gala tackling but this team has confidence and patience. Eventually a scrum awarded to the home side resulted in a pick and drive try for No 8 Patrick (Paddy) Brown. Again Taylor added the extras.

Half Time - Haddington 25 Gala 3

The half time team talk seemed to have an energising effect on the visitors and immediately they took the game to Haddington. However with a back row unwilling to concede any ground and with Nick Bell and Euan Herkes knocking back anything that strayed through the middle, Haddington were in no mood to concede points. After a concerted period of Gala pressure, turn over ball allowed Weston to send the ball deep into the Gala half and out for a line out. With Gala attracting the referee’s attention for a substitution and Haddington preparing to take a breather, the Gala wing took a quick throw in. The ball was in mid-field, Gala had 16 players on the park and Haddington were discussing the line out when the referee waved play on!!! Gala used the confusion to send their winger over in the corner. A try well merited by the pressure and commitment from Gala but rather tainted by the circumstances. The full back kicked an excellent conversion from the touchline.

Haddington 25 Gala 10

Haddington’s period of slumber was now over. They realised they were still in a game! With gaps appearing with less frequency and the Gala defence starting to knock back the attackers the Haddington half backs cleverly switched tactics and started pinning the maroons back with a series of telling kicks to the corner. A kick into space is only as good as the chase and Haddington had the best chaser on the field in Euan Chalmers. The speedy wing put the Gala full back under pressure forcing a knock on and a scrum on the Gala 10 meter line. From a Paddy Brown pick up the ball went through 4 or 5 pairs of forwards hands before the indefatigable Greig Munro put his head down, the Gala full back down, and the ball down over the line for Haddington’s fourth try and bonus point. Taylor’s conversion again split the uprights.

Haddington 32 Gala 10

Gala did not give up and continued to play rugby but could not breach the Scarlet defence further. From another kick and Euan Chalmers chase Haddington gained a scrum five metres out from the Gala line. In a set piece move, Taylor picked up from the base of the scrum, Weston drifted wide and allowed Herkes to come through between the half backs on the crash. The Gala defence seemed to have the move covered but Herkes stayed on his feet, the supporting forwards driving him over the line for his second and Haddington’s fifth try. Taylor again added the extra two.

Shortly after the referee blew for no side and another well deserved win for Haddington seconds

Final Score Haddington 39 Gala 10

This was another all round convincing performance from Haddington’s second string keeping them in second place in the Border Championship 2nd XV League.

The team is playing with confidence and intelligence. They need to ensure they keep their feet on the ground and take each match as it comes, something I am sure John Stewart and his team will be emphasising to the players this week as they prepare for another tough border tussle with Selkirk.

November 26, 2007
Haddington 2nd XV Match Report

Melrose 2nds 19 v Haddington 2nds 37

With Melrose 1st’s playing away, Haddington “ 2nd XV had the opportunity of taking on their Melrose counterparts on the historical “Greenyards” pitch.

It has to be said that Haddington started poorly with indecision at the kick off allowing Melrose to take immediate possession and lay siege to the Haddington line. However, this was a false start to the proceedings as the Scarlets, having defended stoutly for the first 5 minutes, then stung the home side with two scintillating scores. The first came from a pick up from No 8 Willie T who off loaded to Fraser Weston. The scrum half’s pass sent Graham Crawford on a terrific run down the wide blind side and when half stopped by the cover, offloaded inside to the supporting Willie T who crossed for the opening score. Fraser Weston duly converted. Melrose 0 Haddington 7.

Melrose kicked off and again Haddington failed to get under the kick. Melrose retained possession and started throwing the ball about with not a little skill. However, no matter how many passes or how much support there was always a scarlet jersey in the way ready and eager to make the tackle. Melrose kept up the pressure but could not break the defence. Then a turnover deep in the Haddington half allowed Haddington to turn defence into attack. The ball was moved swiftly from the base of the ruck, through hands, to full back Graham Crawford who took off up the wing. Again the cover managed to get across but Euan Chalmers had the pace to keep up with the attack and took the offload from Crawford to go under the posts. Weston again added the conversion. Melrose 0 Haddington 14.

Melrose then started to throw everything they could at Haddington and after a good 10 minutes pressure managed to find some space in mid field for their Number 13 to go under the posts. The try converted by the Melrose stand off took the score to Melrose 7 Haddington 14.

The Haddington scrum then started to exert more pressure on the Melrose eight and with the back row turning over the home side’s possession on a regular basis it was Melrose’s turn to defend. With a score looking likely, Melrose came offside. The referee duly gave a penalty which was converted by Nick Bell.

Half Time Melrose 7 Haddington 17.

Haddington started the second half brightly and soon put pressure on the Melrose line. Melrose again infringed and Nick Bell stepped up to kick his second penalty.

Melrose 7 Haddington 20. Melrose were in no mood to throw in the towel and continued to throw the ball about in an attempt to break the scarlet’s defence. However, led by Andy Townsend and an abrasive back row Haddington were giving no ground. Another turn over and quick movement of the ball, ended with Melrose chasing Graham Crawford up the stand side touchline but to no avail. The full back made the line with ease and another conversion by Nick Bell stretched the score line to Melrose 7 Haddington 27. Worse was to follow for the home side when following a ruck near the stand side touchline, scrum half Fraser Weston (now playing on one leg) noticed there was no one at home behind the flat defence. A neat “left footed” grubber threaded up the touchline followed by Euan Chalmers and a startled Melrose defence in that order. The ball sat up perfectly for Chalmers to take it without breaking stride and cross for Haddington's 4th try. Bell slotted the conversion once more to put Haddington in an unassailable 7-32 lead. The Scarlet “mist” that had descended on the “Greenyards” seemed to be impenetrable to a Melrose team who had flair and pace but lacked the team spirit shown by the visitors. Solid tackling and pressure led to a further penalty on the Melrose 10 m line. However, while everyone waited for the kicker, Euan Herkes took a quick tap, clattered through the front line defence and when stopped offloaded to the ever present Greig Munro. The hooker almost made the line but was caught just short by the covering defence, however, instead of dying with the ball the No 2 neatly popped a pass to the oncoming Rhodri Thomas who crossed the white wash for Haddington’s 5th try. Bell missed the conversion. Melrose 7 Haddington 37.

Melrose to their credit did not give up and continued to play rugby, with their 8 and 12 to the fore. Finally they found a break in the tiring defence and crossed near the posts for a converted try. Melrose 14 Haddington 37.

In the dying minutes a hack through from Haddington was picked up in mid-field by the Melrose 12. He sent a long floated pass out to his winger. Haddington No 11 Eck Watt saw the opportunity for an intercept but the ball just evaded his finger tips. The Melrose winger collected and sped in at the corner. This was the final score of a thrilling game and a great victory to Haddington.

Final Score Melrose 19 v Haddington 37

This was thoroughly deserved victory based on committed defence, discipline, good skills, clinical finishing, and a great team spirit. A great deal of credit must be given to the 2nds coaching team led by John Stewart. This result puts them up into second place in the Border Championship behind leaders Hawick.

Border 2nd XV Farm Supplies Championship 1 2007/2008
Pos Team Pld W D L F A TB LB PD Pts
1 Hawick 9 9 0 0 364 73 7 0 291 43
2 Haddington 12 7 0 5 328 262 4 2 66 34
3 Gala 11 7 0 4 262 138 2 3 124 33
4 Melrose 12 6 0 6 339 227 5 2 112 31
5 Jed-Forest 10 6 0 4 249 185 3 0 64 27
6 Peebles 12 5 0 7 259 234 4 2 25 26
7 Kelso 10 5 0 5 226 243 3 0 -17 23
8 Selkirk 10 3 0 7 142 285 1 1 -143 14
9 Berwick 10 0 0 10 63 585 0 0 -522 0

November 20, 2007
Haddington 2nd XV
Haddington 2nd XV currently sit fourth in the Border Championship after another impressive win on Saturday, this time against Peebles by 24 - 15. Hawick are out in front with Haddington only trailing second placed Gala by 3 points. This weekend they travel to the Greenyards to face 3rd placed Melrose where a win would lift Haddington above them.

November 04, 2007
2nds Match Report v Hawick

Haddington 2nds 20 v Hawick 2nds 35

Haddington suffered at the hands of Hawick for a second time, having also lost the away fixture at the start of the season. Coach John Stewart is looking for progress throughout the campaign and the signs were definitely encouraging in comparison to the corresponding fixture where over 50 points were conceded.

Due to a number of injuries affecting the 1st and 2nds squads, several players were asked to play out of position and no-one could be faulted for effort.

In the first quarter penalties were exchanged by both sides, although it was Hawick taking the early initiative at 6 – 3. Hawick had the majority of possession yet it was the Haddington back’s that threatened most with Graham Crawford a constant worry for the Greens whenever he had the ball. Haddington scored the first try on 30 minutes when a loose pass was collected by Ian Henderson who turned his man before linking with full back Crawford to send him in under the posts. Greg Taylor’s conversion gave the Scarlets a 10 – 6 lead. Hawick responded immediately with a high kick causing problems in the Scarlets defence allowing Hawick an easy 7 pointer to go 13 – 10 in front. Taylor had the last word of the half with another penalty to tie the scores at 13 – 13.

Although Haddington’s scrum was solid, their lineout struggled at times allowing Hawick to capitalise on unforced errors and take full advantage to add two more scores to lead 23 –13 mid-way through the second half. Haddington’s midfield of Henderson and Bell along with full back Crawford continued to open up the Hawick rear-guard but a lack of support and finishing meant there was no end result. The game was lost in the next 5 minutes as Hawick scored two quick fire tries to stun Haddington and effectively win the match by stretching their lead to 35 – 13. Normally, this would open the flood gates for opposing teams against Hawick, yet it seem to galvanise the home side and they finished the stronger of the two sides as again Henderson cut open the Hawick backline to send the strong running Crawford in for a deserved second try of the day and Taylor’s conversion finished the scoring at 35 – 20 to Hawick.

Again, this is a great learning curve for a lot of the young Haddington boy’s who are definitely giving many of their border counterparts’ cause for concern and, in spells, showing they can match their more illustrious opponents.

Special mention to departing Aussie hooker, Gordon McNeill, who has returned to his homeland after 3 good month’s at the Club and will be sadly missed at hooker, although on a brighter note, Simon ‘Spanky’ Spence has returned from injury and put one of his trademark ‘Hits’ on a Hawick boy, which only a Gala man would appreciate!

October 10, 2007
Haddington 2nd XV v Selkirk 'A'

Haddington 2nds 23 v Selkirk 'A' 17

Haddington 2nds travelled to Selkirk on Saturday looking for a morale boosting win after losing narrowly against Gala the previous week. They took the game to Selkirk from the off and scored three early penalties through scrum half Greig Taylor for a 9 - 0 lead. Some poor tackling allowed Selkirk a try against the run of play to bring them into the match at 9 - 7 which is the way the score stayed till half time.

Haddington continued to play well in the second half and the Henderson/Dewey midfield partnership, sorry Dykes/Herkes, were carving holes in the Selkirk ranks, although the forwards must be commended for the solid platform they provided allowing the backs time and space to flourish. Winger Euan Chalmers was first on the score sheet when he chased a high ball before gathering to touch down under the posts making it an easy conversion for Greig Taylor to increase the lead to 16 - 7. Ross King could have added another try if 'honest' Callum Elliot hadn't seen a foot in touch as he ran the line. Selkirk never gave up and kicked a penalty to now trail 16 - 10 going into the last five minutes. Haddington almost threw the match away by conceding another converted try with just three minutes left, 16 - 17, however, back came Haddington to snatch a deserved try through 'Captain Scum' Andy Townsend who made amends for giving away an earlier penalty. Greig Taylor wrapped up the points with the final conversion for a 23 - 17 win.

The 2nds are at home to Berwick on Saturday and are sitting a very commendable fourth in the Border Championship.

The 3rds had a number of call offs as well as players taken up to the 2nds on Saturday for their trip to Melrose on Saturday. They enjoyed another fine game but sadly went down fighting by 31 - 0. This week the 3rds are at Duns.

Good luck to all teams again this weekend.

October 02, 2007
Haddington 2nd XV Match Report

Gala 2nd XV 13 v Haddington 2nd XV 10

This was as tight a match as the scoreline suggests with neither side able to take control. The difference ended up being the boot of the Gala stand-off who kicked the winning Penalty from two metres inside the Haddington half to win the match.

The half time score was 0 – 0 and it was mid-way through the second half before the first points were scored. All the points for Haddington came from scrum half, Greig Taylor who capped a fine overall performance with a penalty, a try and a touchline conversion. Full time 13 – 10.

This league is providing Haddington with the kind of intensity they had hoped for in order to develop some of the younger players’ into the senior ranks and on this performance the Club need not worry about any lack of strength in depth that has haunted ambitions in the past. There is a confidence and a belief in this young squad that is beginning to bear fruit and with ambitious Coach, John Stewart at the helm they now travel to the Borders Clubs looking to win.

The squad face an away trip to Selkirk this Saturday.

September 23, 2007
Haddington 2nd XV Match Report

Haddington 2nd XV 15 v Melrose 2nd XV 40

Haddington 2nd XV had a disappointing result on Saturday after their emphatic win at Peebles the previous week, losing by 40 – 15 against Melrose. The signs were encouraging in mid-week with over 40 players Training, however, there is still a lot of hard work needing to be done against streetwise and fit Border Clubs before there is a consistency of performance.

Haddington showed up well in the first 10 minutes and played some good phases, gaining yards and looked positive during these early exchanges. Stand Off, Ross King kicked an early Penalty and the Reds looked good at 3-0. It never took long though before a powerful Melrose pack began to dictate the pace and Haddington started to play on the back foot with several mistakes and poor turnovers at the breakdown causing no end of problems.

On 13 minutes Melrose took the lead with a try out wide after some poor tackling by the hosts, although they failed with the conversion. 5 – 3.

Again Haddington were on the back foot, scrambling back in defence due mainly to first up tackling which was a major disappointment considering the work that goes into that area at Training. Melrose were playing a pick and drive game at a tempo the Reds were struggling to match.

Melrose inevitably scored three more tries just before the Break taking the halftime score to 26 – 3.

Changes were made at the Break to try and stem the Melrose pattern with Taylor, Brownlee, Dykes and Bell all getting a run. The changes seemed to have a positive effect because Brownlee, Dykes and Crawford started to ask questions with the Reds now also playing a tighter game. Six minutes into the half and Haddington scored a very good try through Scott Brownlee to trail 26 - 8, however, instead of building on the try, the Reds then reverted to type, playing on the back foot and struggling to match the pace up front of Melrose and were to lose another score 33 - 8.

On 65 minutes, Dyksey was 'binned’, which seemed a poor decision and never helped the cause, yet again though poor tackling lost Haddington another score. 40 - 8.

At last Haddington started to play a bit, although the game was effectively lost and on 75 minutes, Ali Wood went under the posts to make the Final Score 40 - 15.

The best way to react against a result like this is to work harder on the Paddock and let’s hope the players don’t dwell too much on this setback and are down grafting as a squad this week to meet the standards now expected of them.

September 18, 2007
Haddington 2nd XV v Peebles 2nd XV Match Report

Haddington 2nds 46 V Peebles 2nds 21

The match was played on the school pitches at Peebles which hindered the type of open game Haddington were looking to play against their Border rivals. The first 10 minutes were very good but cheap unnecessary penalties, such as hands in ruck, kept Peebles on a par with Haddington during the opening period. On 10 mins. a good Scott Brownlee clearance and follow up pressure gave the Reds a lineout on the home 22. Hooker, McNeill found Brett Chicotka at the line-out and the catch and drive, then change of direction took the Reds to 2 metres out before Fraser Weston moved the ball out and beat the defence to go over. Scott Brownlee added the extra points. 0-7.

Again, Haddington were slow organising defence in midfield and Peebles enjoyed some good possession up the middle, however, the Reds should have scored a near carbon copy of the first try if the referee was better positioned to see the grounding of the ball. Good defence play from Euan Herkes and Nick Bell, saw Bell tackle then rip ball and set up a ruck. Peebles came in from the side to commit the Penalty and Brownlee gave Haddington another 3 points for 0-10.

Haddington were now getting a grip of the game with forwards dominating rucks and drives, Weddell, McNeill and Bowie showing up well and with the ball being produced for Weston on demand, the backs were hitting the line with pace and power.

Gogs McNeill went close and Brownlee missed a penalty before some great fluent phases allowed Graham Crawford to burst through and beat two Peebles players to go over, Scott Brownlee added the conversion, 0-17.

Haddington were now playing with a lot of confidence and winning a lot of good phases, with the backs getting beyond the gain line, but poor support to the runner was letting Haddington down at times. Another good turnover by the Reds led to the next try when Brownlee put Nick Bell into space and he sprinted in from 40 metres. Scott Brownlee again added the conversion to go 0-24 at Half Time.

Straight from the restart Peebles put in a kick and chase down the slope that allowed the Hosts their first score after the ball was allowed to bounce. 7 – 24. The game then became a little scrappy before order was restored when the Reds scored a Barbarian length of the field try. McNeill, Bowie, Wood, Bell, Watt, Brownlee all contributed to allow Fraser Weston in under the posts. Scott Brownlee added the 2 extra points, 7 - 31.

Again Peebles came back and scored again with what looked to be a blatant knock on, however, some poor first time tackles never helped prevent the score. 14-31. Peebles were now taking the game to Haddington and scored again to cut the gap to 10pts, 21-31.

Haddington upped the gears again and Fraser Weston, for a hat-trick, Bowie and Wood got scores to finish with a resounding 46 – 21 win for the Reds to put them into second spot in the Border Championship.

This Saturday the 2nd XV play Melrose at Home. Kick-Off 3p.m.

September 10, 2007
Haddington 2nd XV Match Report

Haddington 2nd XV 26 v Jedforest 2nd XV 12

After last weeks defeat at Hawick a big effort was asked from the front five to give the team a platform to work from, and given the backs the Reds had on show, allow them to play on the front foot.

Again though, the team started poorly with no urgency up front, with second prizes at ruck situations. On 10 mins, Brownlee cleared downfield and put pressure on their winger who was bundled into touch 30m out. From the lineout Quinten Caulfield caught well and broke into the 22, he drew the defence and Colin Wood supported well taking Q's offload to score under the posts from 10m. Brownlee converted for a 7-0 lead.

Jed were still winning the forward exchanges with rolling mauls and pop and go surges, however, the backs were covering well on the flanks with McNeill, Chicotka and Caulfield working well in defence, kept Jed out.

From a Brownlee Penalty into the Jed 22, the forwards drove the resultant lineout and after a couple of rucks close in, allowed a surge drive from which Townsend managed to touchdown. 12-0 after ahead after 17mins.

Missed tackles again were a big issue and only some last gasp tackling held Jed out. Greig Taylor foraged ball from the side of a ruck and made a great solo break for 40m's into the Jed 22, however, slow support and not being able to stay on his feet meant a penalty was given for holding on the deck and all the good work was lost. Ian Henderson soon left the field with a hamstring "strain" and was replaced by Neil Watt.

Jed played some expansive rugby, pulling Haddington across the park, but the Reds stood firm. Brownlee managed to put in some big kicks to clear pressure, however, a lack of chasers allowed the Jed winger to score from one running 40m out. 12-5 on 26mins.

Jed kept the pressure on and poor tackling in the midfield allowed them in again at the posts, 12-12 at half time.

Coach, John Stewart had a few home truths for the boys at the turnaround knowing Jed were there for the taking.

Fraser Weston came off the bench at half time and drove the forwards on with QC taking the game to Jed in the loose. The Reds began to play on the front foot with more purpose and conviction, sensing a victory was in their hands.

It could have been a bigger winning margin, yet only two further tries were scored, a cracker through Caulfield driving up the middle and quick ball to Herkes who burst through at pace from 25m to go in under the posts. 19-12…

Last score was either luck or brilliance not sure which… good ruck ball was taken on a pace by McNeill whilst a melee erupted. He popped to Weston who drove into the Jed 22 with Chippy in to support Weston, he collected and scored in the corner. Brownlee signed off with a superb conversion to finish things at 26-12, completing a bonus point win for the Home side.

Second half was very good and promising, first was not. There is still a lot of hard work to be done, but the signs are encouraging and the player’s commitment cannot be faulted. Great Start.

September 02, 2007
2nd Match Report
The 2nd XV went down the Borders to tackle Hawick on Saturday and came back with a 51 – 3 defeat. Although the result is disappointing the players were not too downhearted on their return, mainly due to the fact they had performed extremely well and the final score-line was not a true reflection on the game. The other underlying fact about the game was that for varying reasons more than an entire team had been listed unavailable this weekend leaving the 2nd XV threadbare, therefore the Boys made a gallant effort with limited resources. New Coach John Stewart was happy with the commitment and attitude of the team and knows that they will become a threat to the Border Clubs once the players return to boost the strength of the squad.

March 14, 2007
Haddington Select v CYMS (Friendly)
Haddington were host to Irish Club CYMS at the weekend and played out their annual match on Friday at Neilson Park. The Home side won 36 - 24 in an entertaining match. See below some pictures from the day's game.