CLUB NEWS:
Update as at 13th December ...
Linden v's Aberdeenshire (12/12/09 - league)
Time and time again this season
Although eventually going down 19-12, the Aberdeenshire players and supporters were praying for the final whistle as Linden piled on pressure in the final 10 minutes - indeed it was very apparent from the Aberdeenshire celebrations on the single occasion they managed to breach the Linden defense and at the final whistle, how relieved they were to have scraped a win ... they knew they were up against a Linden side who, albeit considerably smaller, had the ability, passion and pride to beat them, and were perhaps more than a little fortunate to be leaving the borders with a narrow win. On another day this result could have been different; it just demonstrates again what progress the
Change of venue:
Aberdeenshire game is now at PSA pitch, not Wilton Lodge Park or Voluinteer - 2pm ko. Xmas doms are still going ahead per note below.
Saturday's game against Aberdeenshire is at Wilton Lodge Park, kick off 2pm, due to Wanderers v PSA game taking place at the Volunteer. Linden Christmas Dominos will still take place in the clubrooms at 6pm.
Linden Xmas Dominoes:
Linden v's Gordonians RFC (05/12/09 - league):
With only 15 players able to travel due to injury and unavailability, an understrength Linden made the long journey north to face a Gordonians, a side very much at the business end of National league 3. On the day Linden again showed that, despite their lower league position, the teri's are capable of troubling sides who are much higher than them in the league.
From the match report it would appear Linden were in with a chance of victory right up to the death, which is a real testament to the 'never say die' attitude of the 15 available players who made the journey.
Recent results and performances are beginning to show Linden do have the ability, skill and determination to hold their own against much bigger opposition, and with a little more luck in the injury department and player availability they are a side to be reckoned with.
Linden merchandise:
Needing inspiration for that special Xmas gift ... visit the Club Shop for some great ideas. Adults and childrens sizes are avaialble, all at very reasonable prices - see Andy Thomson for more details.
Linden v's Ross High RFC (28/11/09 - league):
Saturdays match away to Ross High will kick off at 12 noon due to the Scotland international, bus leaves Mart Street at 9.30am.
Linden v's Allan Glens RFC (14/11/09 - league)
Linden matched Allan Glens all the way on Saturday and could even have won the game in the final stages if a Steven Beattie penalty had been successful. Click here for match report or click here for Allan Glens view of the match
Although in the end Linden went down 10-12, the whole squad showed they're capable of matching even so-called stronger teams in Natioanal League 3. Whilst result didn't go our way on the day, Saturday's performance demonstrates the progress being made, especially at home.
Sponsor
Saturday's match sponsors were the Molloy family, Anne, Ed and Russell. Russell remains as faithful as ever to the Linden making many of the away trips with Anne often keeping him company. A big thank you for the support of the Molloy’s, both today and on touchlines around the country.
Scotland v Australia (21st Nevember)
Those who have still to pay for tickets for next Saturday’s trip, please see Joel asap. Anyone else wishing to travel on the bus can do so but they will have to arrange for their own tickets (easily done on-line). Leaving time will be 2 pm from Mart Street, giving ample time for travel, parking bus, a few drinks or souvenir shop, watch pre-match entertainment prior to 5.15 pm kick off.
Linden v's Helensburgh RFC (07/11/09 - league)
Despite again losing 1st team regulars to injury and unavailability, the players who took the field gave 100% commitment for the full 80 minutes (or 90 if you count the extra-time in the first half when the ref's time-keeping seemed to implode) and pulled off a solid result, which should give the squad much needed belief and confidence.
Linden v's Helensburgh RFC (07/11/09 - league)
Linden welcome President Peter Holmes and all from Helensburgh RFC on their first visit to the Volunteer. We met previously in the SRU Bowl a couple of years ago in a match recounted in Look Back in Time. Our visitors lost their 100% home record last week losing 15-22 to Allan Glen’s following wins over Gordonians, Forrester, Marr and Lenzie. Away from Ardencaple, they have beaten Hillfoots, drawn with Ross High and lost to Aberdeenshire, GHK and Trinity Accies. Today is the last of the first round of fixtures and the Linden are desperate for another win. We got the monkey off the back with a great bonus point win over Lenzie that, should have been more, but injuries and unavailability meant a completely changed side made the trip to Edinburgh last week.
Sponsor
Thank you today to the Waverley Bar for sponsoring today’s game. The Waverley provided a welcoming refuge to many poor lost soles from the Linden, when the Melgund closed a few years ago, who are now regular visitors in the Waverley.
Tuesday Night Training:
From this Tuesday onwards (03/11/09), on a trial basis, Linden and Quins will join the YM for training on a Tuesday night. This has nothing to do with the meeting about Hawick rugby, but the 3 respective coaches are struggling for numbers on a Tuesday, so it was decided to come together. It was felt that this can only benefit everyone and will encourage the more reliable and committed players to keep training as winter rolls in. The YM was chosen as the venue because of its facilities, i.e. floodlights and gym, but all coaches will contribute to the training. It is hoped that all players will welcome this, as turning up on a wet Tuesday night with 8 bodies to work with ain't much fun for all concerned.
Scotland v's Australia bus trip:
Linden v's Trinity Accies RFC (31/10/09 - league)
Linden continue to struggle away from home, going down 55-3 to Trinity Accies RFC. Click here for match report.
Linden v's Lenzie RFC (24/10/09 - league)
Linden moved off the bottom of National League Division 3 with a spirited 24-0 bonus point victory against Lenzie RFC - click here for full match report.
The season still has a long way to go, but I'm sure this win will bring some much needed belief back to the players after a string of heavy defeats; it certainly put a smile back on the face of President Joel - or was that just the post game Guiness ?!!
Linden v's Lenzie RFC (24/10/09 - league)
Today we welcome Lenzie RFC on their first visit to the Volunteer. Unfortunately President Martin Stewart can’t be here due to work commitments. Coach is Ian Kennedy formerly of GHA and Glasgow Hawks who has been out with a hip injury for three years but hopes to get back playing in the New Year. Our visitors have two home victories this season over Forrester and Trinity Accies and drew at Hillfoots to put them four points above the Linden in the League table. This is therefore a must win game (aren’t they all) for both sides. Our resources were stretched to the limit last week at Hillfoots with only the bare 15 players available, we were even down to third choice touch judge. Today’s selected team looks a lot stronger but, with the luck we’ve been having this season, will we play as selected? Captain Barry Sutherland could be out for another 4-6 weeks after breaking a bone in his hand in the warm up before the Marr game a fortnight ago. Keith Murray never realised he had hammys but managed to pull one last week. He soldiered on, not that anyone really noticed, as he was still plodding along at his normal speed!
Sponsor
Regular supporters the Carnarvon Street Gang are today’s match sponsors to whom we convey our grateful thanks. They didn’t have much luck last season sponsoring the Dalkeith game which was cancelled due to frost in January and then Dalkeith called off on the re-scheduled dates in March and May. We hope the gang have a most enjoyable afternoon.
Scotland v Australia
Numbers to date for the proposed trip to the Scotland v Australia game aren’t good so get your name on the list on the upstairs noticeboard as soon as possible and no later than 29 October to determine if the trip is viable. Game is on Saturday 21 November (we don’t have a game that day) at Murrayfield, kick off 5.15pm. Tickets are priced £10/£20/£40 for adults and £5/£10/£20 for under 18s and students and should be ordered through the club by contacting Gary Alexander. The trip will need to be self funding so the bus will be dearer than for a Linden away match.
Linden v's Hillfoots RFC (17/10/09 - league)
Linden held their own in the first half, however Hillfoots eventually proved too strong on the day and a severely depleted Linden eventually lost 43-0.
Linden face Lenzie RFC this Saturday at the Volunteer and will be looking to bounce back and put the recent run of bad results behind them.
Lost Property:
Scrum magazine:
The attached link takes you to a recent article in The Scrum magazine, covering Barry Sutherland's points tally this season. When the link opens go to page 39.
Linden v's Marr RFC (10/10/09 - league):
Once again circumstances conspired against Linden resulting in one of our heaviest defeats at home for many years, 29-62. Click here for match report. You can also use the following link to view Marr's match report.
Already severly handicapped by loss of players from injury and unavailability, Barry Sutherland then injured his hand in the warm-up, meaning hurried changes were needed immediately prior to kick-off - not the best of starts !! This could have been an entirely different game with a full strength side, however, as we're finding out, the higher standard is taking its toll and with only a small (albeit dedicated) squad of players, who are giving everthing they have week in week out, it's becoming very clear that the rest of the season is going to be tough.
After last seasons great achievements, the resolve and committment of those players who have remained with the club (or recently joined) is now being throughly tested (on and off the field) and they are to be congratulated on their loyalty, dedication and desire to see Hawick Linden R.F.C. remain a force in Hawick rugby. Lossing players to injury is unavoidable, however what's really frustrating for everyone connected with the club is when talented players simply decide (for whatever reason) to stop playing. My hope is these lads will change their minds and come back to help their team mates and get the club get through this tough period.
Welcome to Marr RFC (10/10/09 - league)
A warm welcome to Marr RFC on their first visit to the Volunteer. Unusually they have Co-Presidents in Kevin Quinn and Keith Dunsmuir. If that’s a scam to get extra free drink they better think again as it’ll be a half pint each! Our visitors are going well this season sitting in second place after an excellent 34-11 win over Allan Glen’s last week. The League table however makes uncomfortable reading from a Linden perspective. Hopefully though, we can put in another performance like the one against Gordonians. The end result against Forrester a fortnight ago was a cruel one as it looked like we could go on to win the game early in the second half before it suddenly just ran away from us.
Sponsor
Match sponsor is David Nichol Plumbing Services to whom we are very grateful. Davie enjoyed his first match sponsorship last season against Portobello so much that he’s doing it again although, unfortunately, he can’t make it to the game today.
Golf Run
The golf run a week past Sunday was a great success. Good golf, good food and no criminal charges against any of the Linden contingent. First place went to our bandit coach, Lee Stewart, who scored 86 gross with a 20 handicap. He’ll not be off that next year. Second was Jamie Scott and third Craig Smith. Thanks and well done to Davy Gray for his organisation and sponsorship.
Scotland v Australia
The club is considering running a bus to the Scotland v Australia match at Murrayfield on Saturday 21 November, kick off 5.15pm as we don’t have a game that day. Tickets are priced £10/£20/£40 for adults and £5/£10/£20 for under 18s and students and should be ordered through the club by contacting Gary Alexander. The trip will need to be self funding so the bus will be dearer than for a Linden away match. If interested please add your name to the list on the upstairs noticeboard as soon as possible so we can determine if the trip is viable. The plan is for this to be a club trip for players, officials, supporters, mums, dads, kids and anyone else interested in coming along.
Linden v's Marr RFC (10/10/09 - league)
Lindens next match is at home to Marr. Check out the article from the Marr website messageboard. When the website opens scroll down to the article dated 6th October, posted by Balders.
Linden v's GHK (03/10/09 - league)
Another tough away match for Linden ended in a 34-7 defeat at the hands of GHK. Click here for the match report now available.
Linden v's Forresters RFC (26/09/09 - league)
Linden lost their long standing home league record when they went down to Forresters RFC 15-43, at the Volunteer. Click here for match report.
Welcome to Forrester RFC (league) 26/09/09
A warm welcome to President Craig Lewis, Coach Dougie Dingwall and all from Forrester RFC who make their first visit to the Volunteer although we have played previously in the Scottish Cup in a match recalled in “Look Back in Time.” Our visitors have lost their three games to date so will be a dangerous proposition as they look to gain their first win. The Linden will also be looking to get back on the rails after the heavy loss at Aberdeen. With so many players injured and unavailable, it was a great effort by those who traveled against a physically bigger Aberdeenshire side and an even bigger effort to get through the carry out on the way home!
Sponsors
Saturday's match sponsor is Doug Charters, Electrical Contractors. Doug made his debut for the Linden on 6 December 1975 away to Heriots 2nds where he teamed up with Billy Russell in the middle row. Coincidentally his last game was also away to Heriots 2nds on 29 March 1986. With their 1sts game-less, it was a very strong Heriots side that included Andy Irvine. Doug captained the side and this time had a young middle row partner, G. Alexander. Although the Linden were well beaten, selector Jimmy Dickey tried to put the gloating Heriots committee in their place by declaring, “At least oo won the fights.” Many thanks to Doug for his support and no doubt he’ll have an enjoyable day.
Thanks also to Mike Howe of Top Marque Sports for his support towards the players new warm up tops and to Longhorn Hardware who supplied the padlock and chain for the container at the old tennis courts in which all our training equipment is now stored.
Golf Run
The golf run is on Sunday 27th Sept at the Vertish commencing at 10 am and is part sponsored by Desport & Gray. Any late entries please see Davy Gray today.
International Tickets
Tickets for the autumn tests against Fiji, Australia and Argentina can now be ordered. If you are considering going to any of these games, or know any member who might be, please contact Gary Alexander by Sunday 18th October.
Linden v's Aberdeenshire (19/09/09 - league)
A depleted Linden side struggled valiantly against the current league leaders Aberdeenshire RFC on Saturday (click here for match report).
With only 15 players able to travel due to injury and work commitments Linden were never really in contention against a much heavier and well drilled Aberdeenshire outfit. Despite being up against it, Linden gave everything they had and fought hard for the full 80 minutes. Hopefully Linden will be able to give Aberdeenshire a better contest when they travel to Hawick for the return fixture, later in the season.
Welcome to Gordonians RFC (league) 12/09/09:
A warm welcome to Gordonians led by their President Chris Snape who today doubles up as Coach, further proof that men can do two things at once. Chris is a former captain of Gordonians and a stalwart of the North & Midlands having made his debut against the South in 1971 and played against Argentina in 1973, New Zealand in 1978 and Australia in 1981, the latter two as captain. Our only previous meeting with Gordonians is recalled in a look back in time and the
Sponsors:
The Gordonians match sponsor is John Spalding. Speedy has been a great supporter of the Linden for many years. Apart from match sponsorship he has sponsored playing shorts, polo shirts and been a regular advertiser in our match programme. Not only that but he’s undertaken many plumbing jobs at the Volunteer and also lent a big hand to the recent work done on the bar ceiling. Oh, and he’s probably our top tourist having never missed a tour since ……. well, never. On the recent tour to France, Speedy was renamed “Rapido” for the duration of the trip. Many thanks for your support Speedy.
Moira Black:
Congratulations & happy birthday from all at the Linden to tea-lady and committee member extraordinaire Moira Black. Moria will be celebrating her special day in the clubrooms on Saturday night. A great night is in store so please send any pictures, so thay can be added to the website.
Ex-Players/Sponsors Day:
26th September, when Forrester RFC are our visitors, will be a busy day at the Volunteer as we welcome both ex-players and sponsors. The date has deliberately been picked as the PSA v Wanderers game is scheduled for the Friday night which will give the many ex-Linden players on both committees the opportunity to attend our game.
Golf Run:
This year’s golf run is on Sunday 27th September at the Vertish commencing at 10 am and is part sponsored by Desport & Gray. Those wishing to attend should add their name to the list on the changing room noticeboard or see Davy Gray. Approximate cost is only £15 which covers golf, bacon/sausage rolls on arrival and post-round meal.
Programme:
The recent YM game was a “sell out” but Joel has a couple of spare copies if anyone requires one, also a few are still leftover from last season including the postponed games against Dalkeith, Carrick and Meggetland. See El Presidente if interested.
Other Fixtures:
Today’s other games in National Division 3 are Allan Glen’s v Aberdeenshire, Lenzie v Marr, Helensburgh v Forrester, Ross High v Hillfoots and Trinity Accies v GHK.
Club Merchandise:
Thanks to Mark Palmer, there is now a club merchandise page on the website. Although Stobbs made himself available as a model, Mark had a better offer. Good looking, tight body, clean shaven, how could Mark turn down the offer of a mannequin from his next door neighbour!
Linden v's Ross High RFC:
Linden gained their first points in National League Division 3, with a 22 - 22 draw against Ross High. Click here for match report or click here for Ross High's view of the game.
Todays Sponsors: Today’s match sponsors are Hume & Tait, Slaters, Tilers, Roof Plumbers. We appreciate the support of Brian Hume who unfortunately may not be able to be here today.
Congratulations:
The success of last season resulted in an unprecedented number of awards and trophies. Congratulations and well done to all the winners: Craig Smith, East Region Player of the Season; Barry Sutherland, Borders Rugby Awards East League Player of the Season; Graeme Anderson, Club Player of the Season; Billy Russell, The Spirit of Rugby Award and of course the club itself, Scottish Hydro Electric East League Division One Champions and Borders Rugby Awards Top Placed Team in East League One.
Presidents Message 5th September 2009:
It is with great pleasure that I welcome everyone to the Volunteer Park for what is my first home League game as President of the Linden. It is a huge honour to take over the reigns of the club for what will be a challenging season as we step up to National League Division Three. Last Saturday was certainly a tough introduction.
Last season could hardly have gone better as we won East League Division One with a 100% record and almost made it to Murrayfield. The failure to make the Plate Final was a disappointment but certainly no disgrace to lose to a very useful Aberdeen University side. The tour to France was a resounding success topped off with a win in the match against Aytre at the La Rochelle stadium.
The only sour note of the tour was the serious knee injury to Lee Stewart who is likely to miss most, if not all, of this season. On the up side though, he stays involved as forwards coach assisting Brian Wear who steps up to head coach in place of John Tait. My grateful thanks to Taitso for his exceptional efforts over the last few seasons, somehow managing to juggle his numerous commitments.
My thanks also to those on the
A club such as ours cannot survive without sponsorship, even more so this season with increased travel costs. Grateful thanks to Tim and Willie Paterson-Brown of Accoya our shirt sponsors for a second season, Scott McDonnell of Heatech our shorts sponsor and Mike Howe of Top Marque Sports our kit suppliers. Thanks also to all our matchday sponsors and programme advertisers whose support is invaluable.
Welcome today to Ross High and their President Scott Glynn. We last met two years ago, recalled overleaf, in a season in which Ross High topped East League One. We followed their example last season by winning East One and meet up again, this time in the National League.
May I offer my best wishes to our coaches, captain Barry Sutherland, our players and everyone connected with Hawick Linden for an enjoyable season, on and off the field.
Gary Alexander
President, Hawick Linden RFC
Programme:
Grateful thanks to Robert Pollock and the staff at John Beattie & Sons for continuing to print our match programme. Thanks also to Allan McCredie for his exceptional efforts in laying out the advertising pages.
Players:
Unfortunately we will be without some of last season’s team. Terro has a long term knee injury. Wattie Davies will not be available until December due to his dad’s health problems. Our best wishes to both Watties. PC Keown and butcher Smith will not be available as often and it looks likely that Greg Cunningham will be playing his rugby in Edinburgh, traveling down over the last couple of years as a poor student taking their toll. Finally, the very promising Greg Bouglas has just lost interest despite playing so well last season. Hopefully he will change his mind.
On the other hand we have new recruits. Sean Tennant has been keen as mustard in training but is out for a few weeks following our first game against Melrose, not dissimilar to last season when he was injured in the very first match. The front row has been bolstered with Daniel Finnigan, ex-Quins, and Robert Stitt, ex-Wands and PSA. Herky’s little, or is it big, brother Stuart will help the back row as will Fraser Gillie, previously with Kelso Quins, although the latter will soon be off to Uni in
We hope to see more of Scott Hinton this season as his girlfriend has moved to Edinburgh from England and we’ve also had Mike Howe turn out in the two pre-season friendlies. Although only intending to lend a hand with coaching the forwards now and again, it’s been handy to have Mike’s experience. Not many sides at our level can boast an ex-pro with service at London Irish and Newcastle Falcons.
Borders Rugby TV:
Click here to view Joel being interviewed at the end of the video clip.
Linden v's Allan Glen RFC (league) 29th August:
Baptism of fire for Linden in their first National Div. 3 league match, away to Allan Glen RFC. Click here for match report. Linden's next league match is on 5th September at home to Ross High RFC.
Club Merchandise:
The website now contains details of Hawick Linden merchandise available for purchase - click here to view items. For more details of sizes / prices etc. contact Andy Thomson.
Linden v's Hawick Y.M. (friendly) 22nd Augsut 2009:
In their first match for 8 years, Linden went down 25 - 10 at the Volunteer Park to a much stronger Y.M. side, in this pre-season friendly. Click here for the match report.
Six Nations Tickets:
International Tickets - Autumn Tests:
For a copy of the order form, go to 'International Tickets' in the Main Menu. Cut and paste the form to a Word document, then complete and forward to Joel, at the address provided.
Important information regarding bar duties:
Scottish Hydro National Shield Draw:
Linden have been drawn at home to newly promoted National One side, Linlithgow RFC, in the first round of the Scottish Hydro National Shield. The tie is due to be played on 6th February 2010.
Linden last played Linlithgow in the 3rd round of the Scottish Cup, during season 1996/97, when they came away with a well earned 13-7 victory.
Message from Weary:
Congratulations to all the players last season on their efforts in winning the League. Although it doesn’t seem too long ago since we stopped playing, we are at the start of another pre-season and the beginning of another campaign.
I would like to take this chance to invite any new players, or anyone who thinks they could fancy playing a bit of rugby, along to pre-season training which starts Tuesday 14th July.
One of our major strengths last year was our fitness and our undoubted will to win. We have to make sure our fitness is still good as well as our team plays, as this year we will be playing teams that are bigger and better. We have appointed our new captain for the season in Barry Sutherland, so it’s up to us as coaches and players to show the same commitment and enthusiasm Barry does. If we do I am sure we will have another successful season.
On the coaching front I shall be in charge, supported this year by Lee Stewart, last years captain, who unfortunately misses the season through a serious knee injury. It’s great that he wishes to be involved in coaching as he has a very good knowledge of what the modern game is all about and he also has great respect from all his team. We also have Mike Howe and Jock Rae on hand this season to help now and again on specialist areas.
To all new player’s young and old, training starts at 6.30 on Tuesdays and Thursdays where we have excellent facilities and equipment as well as a young coaching staff to help. We also hope to see all last seasons’ players as well so we can continue to push their development as well as using the senior players’ experience. Please turn up with both boots and trainers as well as your own water bottle.
Thanks
Brian Wear
(Coach)
Fixtures 2009/2010:
Click here to take you to the SRU site and then select the PDF file and scroll down to our fixturers.
Club Captain:
Congtatulations to Barry Sutherland who has been selected as club captain for season 2009/10.
Update as at 27th June 2009 ...
Season 2009/10 Coaching Staff:
Update as at 22nd May 2009 ...
Common Riding Flags:
Just a reminder that the club are once again putting up the Common Riding flags on Sunday morning. A good turn out is requested so that the job is done quickly.
La Rochelle Tour:
All players and most of the committee returned home last Sunday from what appears to have been a very successful 5 day tour to La Rochelle in France. Despite a small hiccup on the homeward journey when Stiggy senior was diagnosed with a severe case of "Swine Flu", the tour seems to have passed off without any major diplomatic incidents. Whilst in La Rochelle Linden played top-notch French side, Ayrte and came a way with a 20 - 12 victory!!
Pictures taken by the aforemetioned Stiggy (before he disapeared under the table !!) have now been posted to the site. If there are other photo's you would like added to the site, just send them on.
Borders Rugby TV Awards Dinner:
Update as at 7th May 2009 ....
East Regional League Division 1:
Murrayfield have announced that Craig Smith has been chosen as the player of the year for our league and will be presented with his trophy at a Dinner at Murrayfield on 21st May. This is two years running a Linden player has received this award, as last year's winner was Brian Wear.
Squad Photo:
A squad photo for the season is being taken at 7.00pm at Volunteer Park on Thursday 21st May. As it has been such a successful season we would like as many players as possible to attend.
Dalkeith Match:
Our final league match will not be played as Dalkeith are unable to raise a side.
Update as at 2nd May 2009 ....
Tour to La Rochelle:
A tour committee meeting is being held in the clubrooms at 8pm on Tuesday 5th May.
IRB Sevens Tickets:
IRB World Series Sevens at Murrayfield will take place on 30 and 31 May, at Murrayfiled. Ticket orders placed in advance for an any day adult pass will be charged £15 as opposed to £20 on the day. Senior citizens and students any day tickets are priced £10 and under 18's £5. Alternatively an any day family pass (2 adults and 2 under 18's) are priced £35. Anyone interested please contact Gary Alexander on 870337 or KirstyGary@aol.com no later than Monday 11th May.
Update as at 27th April 2009 ....
Linden v's Dalkeith (league) 2nd May 2009:
It appears unlikely our final league match scheduled for Saturday 2nd May will go ahead, as Dalkeith are unable to raise a side. Alternative dates are being considered, but it's not looking promising.
Borders Rugby TV:
Our 3 tries from Saturday can be viewed on Borders Rugby TV along with our President speaking some more p*sh (Joel's words not mine) about the game !! Select programme 034 to view Linden footage.
Committee Meeting:
Please note, the next committee meeting will be held on Monday 11th May at 7pm.
Linden v's Aberdeen University (Plate semi-final) 25/04/09:
Given their performance it seems incredible that the
Pictures covering Saturday's match by ex-Linden player Kenny Baillie have now been added to the Photo Gallery.
Update as at 24th April 2009 ....
Welcome to
A warn wecome is extended to all from Aberdeen University RFC. who will make the long trip down from Aberdeen tomorrow. Unfortunately AURFC President Richard Glover is in
Sponsors:
Today’s match ball sponsors are Jed Folk, aka Clarke Scott and Len Wyse who make their annual venture over the Dunion for another no doubt enjoyable afternoon at the Volunteer. The teas are sponsored by Barry Russell, son of Past-President Bill and the visitor’s shield by Committee man Jim “Bamp” Millar and his wife Susan. Grateful thanks to all for their support.
Players & Committee Night:
A great night was had by all at last Saturday’s players and Committee night. The players certainly made up for having kept off the drink at the dinner on Friday. It was great to see them all enjoying the various games together with the court session a real laugh for all who witnessed it. Some of the charges were interesting to say the least. Another big thank you to Moira Black for ensuring the drink was soaked up with rolls and stovies.
Awards Dinner:
The
Congratulatory Smoker:
A reminder that the mixed congratulatory smoker for the Acting Father and Cornet elect will take place in the Clubrooms on Sunday 24 May at
Congratulations:
Congratulations to Bill Russell who has been advised he has won the Spirit of Rugby Award which will be presented to him at a ceremony at Murrayfield prior to the
Update as at 23rd April 2009 ....
Crieff & Strathearn RFC Match Report:
Click here to read the Crieff & Strathearn perspective on Saturday's game.
Update as at 19th April 2009 ....
Linden v's Crieff & Strathearn (Plate Competition) 18/04/09:
Linden knotched up another convincing victory against Crief & Strathearn RFC (match report now available) and in the process booked themselves a place in the semi-final of the Plate competition. Pictures by "ma boy" have been added to the Photo Gallery. Our semi-final opponents will be Aberdeen University RFC (who overcame Jordanhill Phoenix), with the tie to be played at the Volunteer on Saturday 25th April.
The players will have got an idea of what our opponents might be like as Aberdeen Uni play in the same league as Crieff & Strathearn and at the moment are at the business end of the table, currently sitting 4th with 11 wins from 16 games.
The club are hoping for a big local support at the Volunteer on Saturday to cheer on the Royal Blues and hopefully see them emulate "The Robbie Dyes", "The Redskins" and "The Mighty Quins", who have all previously made it to a Murrayfield final.
Club Points Record:
Congratulations to Barry Sutherland who has now passed Steven Beattie's record of 261 points in a single season. Barry is currently on 273 points and if we're able to progress in the Plate and Dalkeith fulfill their final league match, he'll still have 3 more games to improve his tally.
Welcome to Crieff & Strathearn:
We welcome President Alan Rose, Coach Botha Enslin and all Committee, players and supporters from Crieff & Strathearn RFC on their first visit to the Volunteer. Like ourselves they were knocked out in the second round of the Cup. In the Plate they have defeated Lochaber 82-0,
Sponsors:
Match ball sponsors are the Thomson family, namely Kenny and Maureen. Although a YM man, Kenny has pulled on the Royal Blue jersey in the past, so he’s not that bad after all! Another to play for the
La Rochelle Tour:
Thanks to the exceptional efforts of Secretary George Storey, the itinerary for the tour to
Congratulatory Smoker:
A mixed congratulatory smoker for the Acting Father and Cornet elect will take place in the Clubrooms on Sunday 24 May at
Congratulations:
Well done to Mike Howe who often helps coach the forwards who was part of the Border Reivers team who won the Melrose Vets tournament last weekend, the final being played between the semis and final of the Melrose Sevens.
Update as at 15th April 2009 ...
Plate competition quarter-final:
This Saturday's visitors to the Volunteer Park are Crieff & Strathearn RFC. Not much is known about our quarter-final opponents, who currently sit 10th in Caledonia Region League 1 with 6 wins from 18 games, however we do know they overcame Penicuik RFC in the previous round, so a tough game is expected, with the incentive of a home semi-final against either Aberdeen University or Jordanhill up for grabs.
Update as at 11th April 2009 ...
Linden v's Dunbar RFC (league) 11/04/09:
Despite a well below par performance, Linden maintained their unbeaten league record with a 27 - 21 victory at home to Dunbar RFC. Saturday's match report has now been added to the site. Also, photo's taken by my new apprentice (Nick Palmer) have been added to the Photo Gallery.
Despite loosing, it's probably fair to say Dunbar were the happier side at the end of 80 minutes, as the final kick of the game gave them a lose bonus point, which guaranteed league 1 status for the east-coast outfit for a further season at the expense of Meggatland RFC.
Welcome to Dunbar RFC:
We welcome coach Gerry Donnellan and all from Dunbar RFC. Our visitors will be desperate to get something out of today’s game as just a single point will save them from relegation and send Meggetland down. It was a tough game at
Update as at 7th April 2009 ...
Richard Wilkinson:
All at Hawick Linden R.F.C. were deeply saddened to hear of the tragic death at the weekend of Hawick Wanderers R.F.C. player, Richard Wilkinson. Our sincere condolences and thoughts go to Richard's family and friends and to all at Hawick Wanderers, where he will be sadly missed. As a mark of respect a minutes silence will be observed before our game with Dunbar on Saturday.
Update as at 4th April 2009 ...
Linden v's Meggatland RFC (league) 4th April:
Linden maintained their winning ways against a stuffy Meggatland side looking to avoid relegation - match report now available.
Welcome to the Volunteer Today everyone is more welcome than ever at the Welcome to Meggetland Welcome to President Arthur Ross and all from Meggetland RFC who were formed in 2007 and are one of Sponsors Porters Porches & Conservatories are today’s ball sponsors with Ferguson & Aitken sponsoring the teas. Grateful thanks to both businesses for supporting the
Murrayfield Magic Weekend
Update as at 30th March 2009 ...
Photo's:
More pics courtesy of Derek Oliver have been added to the site.
Linden v's Broughton RFC (league) 28th March 2009:
Linden maintained their 100% league record with a 29 - 16 victory away to Broughton RFC. Match report now available. For the Broughton RFC perspective on the game and some photo's click here.
Annual Dinner:
Photo's:
More photo's of last weeks game taken by Cath Gray have been added to the photo gallery. We've probably now got enough of the game itself, but it would be good to have some of the after match celebration. If there are any out there let me know and I'll add them to the site.
Plate Competition:
Linden will play Crieff & Strathearn R.F.C. in the quarter-final of the Plate competition. The tie will be played at the Volunteer on 18th April, with the winners getting a home tie against either Aberdeen University or Jordanhill in the semi-final.
Borders Rugby TV:
Click on the link below to view our Vice President Gary (can someone lend me some cash to buy a bic razor) Alexander, talking about our win on Saturday. Joel is hoping this clip will launch his film career as a stunt double for Worzel Gummidge and now wishes to be know as "Joel Dicaprio".
Joel's stunning performance can be viewed at the very end of the video and apparently there's no truth in the rumour that it took 147 takes before he got it right and that he was actually clean shaven when they started !!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-GL_j_e3Ucc
Linden v's Hawick Quins (league) 21st March:
Linden secured the Scottish Hydro Electric East Region Division 1 league title and promotion to the National Leagues, with a superb team performance against the Quins at Wilton Lodge Park on Saturday.
Linden eventually won convincingly afer a stuffy first half performance, which saw the Quins doing their utmost to spoil any possible party. The second half however was a different story, with the Linden totally dominant throughout, running out 40 - 13 winners.
Congratulations go to all the players and team management, who thoroughly deserve this league title and with the La Rochelle tour imminent and a potential Murrayfield appearance up for grabs, the 2008 / 09 season could just be the "best of aw".
Photo's from Portobello R.F.C. game:
Many thanks to Stuart Fraser of Portobello RFC for providing some photo's of our recent game at Cavalry Park. To view the pictures just go to the Photo Gallery on the Home page.
When sending the photo's Stuart commented that the Linden were by far the best side he had seen in the league and wished us good luck for the rest of the season.
Tour:
The remaining balance should be paid by 31st March and all that will be required thereafter will be spending money. Details of our game to be played and also the game we are going to see will be revealed later.
I've added some links to websites for La Rochelle, just to get your mouth watering !! The museums and architechture look stunning, but I'm sure you'll find that out for yourselves when you visit !!
http://www.michaelbriant.com/La%20Rochelle.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Rochelle
http://www.holidays-la-rochelle.co.uk/
http://www.fitzpatricks-irish-pub.com/
http://www.larochelle-inside.com/pages/establishments/general_humbert_english.html
http://www.larochelle-inside.com/pages/accueil_english.html
Some useful French phrases:
If you've had a few beers to many and are a bit confused:
After a few pints - Qu’elle heure est-il? - what time is it ?
Heavy session - Quel jour sommes-nous? - what day is it?
Absolutely steemin - Quel moi sommes-nous? - what month is it?
Eating out:
How many of your customers have died? Combien de vos clients sont morts?
This restaurant isn't as good as McDonald's - Ce restaurant n'est pas aussi bon que le Mc.Donalds
A Big Mac please - Le Big Mac, please
For the Hotel:
I have a frog in my bidet! - J'ai une grenouille dans mon bidet!
It's a bit of a dive, but it has some nice mould. - Ça fait un peu boui-boui, mais il y a de la jolie moisissure
Anglo / French Diplomatic Relations:
Stop bothering me - Parle à mon cul, ma tête est malade
My God your children are ugly! - Mon Dieu, que vos enfants sont laids
Your children are very attractive ... are they adopted? - Vos enfants sont très beaux. Ils sont adoptes?
If your French is a bit rusty and you need help translating a particular word or phrase, then you can use this translator link.
Any problems caused by taking the contents of this page seriously are deemed to be the result of your own stupidity.
End of season Seven's
In view of our league and cup committments we will not be taking part in any sevens tournaments this season.
Annual Dinner:
This years dinner will be held on 17th April at the Mansfield House Hotel. Guest speakers are David Campbell of Musselburgh RFC, Rev John Weir Cook of Musselburgh RFC and John Gordon formerly of Walkerburn RFC.
Unfortunately, it appears the dinner is the night before our quarter-final Plate tie and at a recent Committee meeting it was suggested the function could be declared a "booze free" zone. I can however assure everyone that the matter was thouroughly debated with no stone being left unturned and after considerable soul searching by all concerned .... was promptly rejected !!! The Committee do of course have complete faith in the players will-power, but just in case Ian MacKinnon and his team should show no mercy !!
Scrum Magazine article:
"Linden make it delightful dozen"
Click on the following link to access the recent article from the February edition of Scrum magazine. The column appears on page 6, accompanied by a picture from our game earlier this season against Earlston.
Re-arranged fixtures:
The Quins league game scheduled for 11th April will now be played on March 21st, with our home league fixture against Dunbar moving to 11th April.
Plate Competition:
Our quarter final tie will be at home on 18th April against the winners of Crieff & Strathearn RFC v's Penicuik RFC, which is being played on 21/03/09. If we win that we'll be at home to the winners of Jordanhill Phoenix or Aberdeen University.
We know all about Penicuik from previous encounters, however little is known about the other possible quarter-final opponent. Crieff & Strathearn play in Caledonia Regional League Division 1 and are currently in 8th position, with 6 wins from 14 games. If we get through the quarter-final then we'll have home advantage against the winners of Aberdeen University or Jordanhill. Aberdeen Uni are currently 4th in Caledonia Regional League Division 1, with 9 wins from 13, and Jordanhill (the only surviving team from the West Regional leagues), going well in 2nd place of league 3, with 8 wins from 12.
I've added links to Crieff & Strathearn RFC and Jordanhill Phoenix RFC so you can have a look at what could be in store !! There's already a link to the Penicuik RFC website on the Home page, but I can't find a site for Aberdeen University RFC.
Linden v's Portobello (league) 7th March:
Our next scheduled league match is a tough away fixture against Portobello RFC this Saturday. This is always a hard game, but a victory at Porty would certainly put us in a very strong league position ... aw the best for Saturday boys - geethum hell !!
Linden v's Carrick 1st March 2009
Sundays match against Carrick RFC in the 3rd round of the Plate competition was cancelled as Carrick were unable to raise a team. Carrick have therefore forfeited the game and we now progress to the 4th round. Apparently the 6th round Cup draw is being made on Thursday, so it's likely the Plate competition will get drawn as well. Teams remaining in the Plate are:-
Linden v's Carnoustie (Plate 2nd Rnd) 21st February:
Despite an early start and a long bus journey, Linden progressed to the 3rd round of the Plate competition with an impressive 46 - 12 victory away to Carnoustie (click for match report). The victory has earned them a 3rd round home tie against Carrick RCF, on Sunday 1st March.
Carrick RFC are currently sitting 3rd in Division 2 of the the Scottish Hydro Electric West Regional Leagues - Click here to see their web page.
Please note, the 3rd round tie is at the Volunteer on Sunday 1st March, not Saturday. Check local press or this website for further details of kick off times etc.
Linden v's Duns (league) 31st January 2009:
Linden defeated Duns on Saturday 31 - 0 to maintain their 100% league record - click here for match report , or click here for an even more flattering report !!
Tour Update:
Linden v's Dalkeith (league) 24th January (game cancelled):
Welcome to Dalkeith:
Today we welcome President Harry Graham and all from Dalkeith RFC. Following their relegation in 2006/07 Dalkeith bounced straight back up last season to Division One of the East League. Our last meeting before this season was just over two years ago in December 2006 when the Linden won a dour game by 9-0 in a match that marked the debut of Darrell Gray. More recently the
Sponsors:
Regular supporters the Carnarvon Street Gang are today’s match sponsors to whom we convey our grateful thanks. Gang member Jim Paxton will recall proud and happy times in the look back feature when son Colin played for the
Re-arranged Fixtures:
Confirmation has been received of the dates for our previously cancelled Plate and League fixtures and updated fixtures for the next few weeks are: 31 Jan – Duns (away), 7 Feb – Meggetland (home), 14 Feb – ‘Quins (away), 21 Feb – Carnoustie (away), 1 Mar – Dunbar (home) or, if successful against Carnoustie, Carrick or Edinburgh BATS (home).
Tour:
Arrangements for the tour to
Annual Dinner:
For the annual dinner at Mansfield House Hotel, the guest speakers are David Campbell of Musselburgh RFC, Rev. John Weir Cook of Musselburgh RFC and John Gordon formerly of Walkerburn RFC.
New Year Party:
I believe there may be a good video / photo's going about from the New Year party at Volunteer. If you send it on I'll post to the website - provided of course I'm not left open to presecution !!
Linden v's Penicuik (league) 17th January 2009:
Linden started 2009 with a convincing 24 - 3 victory away to Penicuik - click here for match report.
Click here to view recent results and player stats for 2008/09.
Dates for your diary:
|
27th December – Club doms after the game against Kelso 2nds. |
Auld Year’s Night – Disco, buffet and wine for £15 per head/£30 per couple. Please see Steven Bouglas for tickets. |
Linden v's North Berwick (league) 13th December
After a couple of weeks off due to bad weather Linden continued their great league form with a well deserved 33 - 12 win against North Berwick. Click here for the match report.
Welcome to
Weather permitting we welcome our very good friends from
Todays Sponsor
Our sponsor today is Michael Johnston of MTJ Properties. Michael is a good friend of Rob Beattie and we hope he has an enjoyable afternoon at the Volunteer and thank him for his support of the club.
Murrayfield Tickets
Today is the final deadline for ticket applications for the Heineken Cup Final at Murrayfield in May 2009 so please see Gary Alexander to place your order.
Linden v's Dunbar (league) 29th November - match postponed
Welcome to
We welcome our visitor’s from
Look Back in Time:
Click this link to see the report from a Linden match 9 years ago when we played host to Selkirk 2nds
Ex-Players Day
Last Saturday’s ex-players day was a resounding success apart from the result against the ‘Quins. The bacon and flat sausage rolls went down a treat before the game and afterwards the drink was soaked up with an absolutely fantastic buffet. Moira Black deserves enormous credit yet again for doing us proud. Thanks Moira.
Plate Draw:
Following our defeat to the ‘Quins the
Sponsors:
Welcome to our sponsors today. The match ball is sponsored by “The Three Gentlemen” just a slight change from the description of themselves the last time they were sponsors which was, “The Grumpy Old Men.” Well, if they want to call themselves gentlemen that’s up to them but we all know they’re really grumpy old gits!! Grateful thanks Ronnie, Bill and Viv as well as our teas sponsor Geoff Allott who, one feels, has much more reason to describe himself as a gentleman.
Presidents Message:
Well we have already reached half way in the League campaign and I’m sure everyone involved with the Club, especially coaches John and Brian, could not have wished for the Club to be in such a good position.
Credit must go to the players for the effort they have put in. Along the way we have played some great entertaining running rugby and showed real fighting spirit when required. We now start the second half of our League fixtures and hopefully we can maintain our drive and focus, especially as the festive season approaches, and be challenging for top honours come the end of the campaign.
Best of luck to all the players and let’s go for it!
Derek Oliver
President, Hawick Linden RFC
Linden v's Quins (cup) 22nd November
Linden lost out to a hungrier Quins side in last weeks local derby cup tie - click here for match report. Linden however will get a chance to avenge this defeat when they meet the Quins again on league business, on 6th December.
Welcome to Hawick Harlequins
We welcome President Phil Nichol, his committee, players and supporters to the Volunteer for the second time this season. The
Selkirk Match
The boys were gutted to lose their 100% record under the lights at Philiphaugh last Friday. A very dodgy second try for the home side proved to be the difference in the end of what was a really hard game against a very useful Selkirk side. Unfortunately we have a few players missing today away at a re-union, Stobs, Peewee, Stig and Terro whilst David Beattie has a hand injury. However, there is great depth in the squad and hopefully they will all pull out a performance today in front of so many ex-players. It has to be said that some of the rugby played in the first half of our Cup tie against Earlston, in dreadful conditions, was absolutely superb. Some of the inter-play was first class. More of the same today wouldn’t go amiss.
Sponsors
Our match sponsors today are John Rae Ltd – Update Systems. In other words Jock Rae,
End of Season Tour
After a debate between the players the favoured destination for our end of season tour is
Linden v's Selkirk 2nds (friendly) 14th November: Linden's 100% record this season was lost in a friendly against Selkirk 2nds under the Philiphaugh lights on Friday night - click link for full match report Linden v's Earston (Cup) 8th November (1.30pm kick off): Linden easily defeated Earlston in the first round of the cup - click here for match report . There's also some pics of the game - click this link to view. Welcome to Earlston This weekend we welcome President Hugh Briggs and all from Earlston RFC, not to the Volunteer, but to Wilton Lodge Park. With the Wands also at home in a big match against Gala Wanderers, we are "Up the Park" but we will of course be back at the Volunteer for after match festivities. After suffering relegation from East League One in 2007/08 Earlston are having a great season this time around and currently sit proudly at the top of East League Two. They have won eight games and their only loss was a narrow defeat to near neighbours, big-spending, St Boswells. It’s good to see our visitors performing well again and we wish them all the best in making a quick return to East League One. The winners of today’s tie will be at home to Edinburgh BATS or the ‘Quins in a fortnight. League Campaign Despite a poor first half performance last week, the Linden clicked into gear after the turn around to end up convincing winners against Broughton who were unfortunate with injuries. This leaves us nine from nine at the half way stage having played some tremendous rugby along the way. Let’s hope the boys can carry that on when the League resumes in three weeks time. In the meantime we have Scottish Cup rugby on the menu. One or two changes today with Suzz and Stiggy at their Mum/Auntie’s wedding and a couple more at Kelso Races. However, this allows Big Bazz Keown back into the team where he did just enough last week for Hawick to warrant promotion back to the Linden! Sponsors Our match sponsors today are the Mansfield House Hotel who have been fantastic supporters of the Linden for many years. Our sincere appreciation is conveyed to Ian and Sheila MacKinnon for their continuing support. Look Back in Time: Our report this week looks at the Linden's cup game against Edinburgh Accies during the 1998/99 season - click this link to view Dalkeith Match It looks like we will have to accept the score as 43-5. The referee submitted his scorecard to Murrayfield which has gone missing. He did confirm he awarded a try to Dalkeith at the end of the game but did not signal it due to the injury to their player. However, without the scorecard, we cannot challenge our total which we remain convinced was 44.
Linden v's Broughton (league) 1st November 2008 Linden reached the half way point in their league campaign and maintained their unbeaten run with a hard fought 37 - 7 victory against a brave Broughton side, who were eventually reduced to 13 men due to unfortunate injuries. Click this link for a full match report. There's also some pics of the game - click this link to view. Welcome to Broughton: We welcome back to the Volunteer today Broughton RFC President Mark Brown and all from his club. Games between us have always been close affairs but our visitors are not having a great season by their standards as they are invariably in the top places of the League. Although they have only secured two wins, over Dunbar and Dalkeith, five of Broughton’s defeats have been by no more than ten points so they haven’t been far away. A little bit of luck and they could be up near the top of the League as usual so our lads had better beware. Hopefully conditions will be better than last week’s wind and horizontal rain which will allow more open rugby to be played. Sponsors Our match sponsor today are Hume & Tait, Slaters, Tilers, Roof Plumbers and employers of Linden back rowers Scott Hinton and Rory Smith. We appreciate the support of Brian Hume and trust he has an enjoyable afternoon at the Volunteer. Today we look back twenty years and a trip "Up the Park" to play the ‘Quins on 29 October 1988 - click this link to view
Dalkeith Match
The referee has confirmed he registered the score as 43-5. We have conceded the 5 points for Dalkeith on the assumption a try was awarded when the home player was injured although the referee did not appear to signal this at the time. However, we have asked for a breakdown of how our total of 43 is calculated when we undoubtedly scored 44 points. The table below is still based on the SRU website score of 43-5.
Linden v's Portobello (league) 25th October 2008
Linden's unbeaten run continued at the Volunteer on Saturday, with a credible win against Portobello in terrible conditions - click for match report.
The win puts Linden 14 points clear of Portobello, Quins and Penicuik at the top of the league, a great position to be in as we approach the half way point in the league campaign.
Welcome to Portobello:
The Linden welcommed Portobello RFC on Saturday, who we congratulate on the refurbishment of their clubrooms following last year’s fire. The Linden enjoyed some wonderful Porty hospitality on the day of the official re-opening which they thoughtlessly spoilt by beating us 29-18. A belated thanks to President Iain Goodall for his very humerous toast to rugby football at the Linden annual dinner back in April. We must however express our surprise that he is still employed by the SRU following some well made points! Welcome Iain as well as coaches Dave Hardy, Nick Thomas and Sean Hollywood together with Team Manager Derek Stevenson.
Our match sponsor today is David Nichol Plumbing Services to whom we convey our grateful thanks.
A "Look Back in Time" this week covers a match between Linden and Gala YM, from November 1968 - click this link to view
Meggetland (league) 18th October 2008
Another fine bonus point win for the Linden at Meggetland last week against a pretty decent side. Click here for match report. They may be bottom of the League but they’re by no means the worst team we’ve played this season. One of the highlights was undoubtedly Barrie Keown’s massive hit on the stocky Meggetland centre. Jason White would have been proud of that one. It was also a good experience for the Linden to play on the main pitch. The new stand, terraces and clubrooms were most impressive, it was just a pity no official from the home club came over to speak with any of the Linden contingent. It was good to see young Bougie, Greg Bouglas from the PSA, come on and show his pace. We also are pleased to have Stuart Hogg from the Wanderers involved today for the first time. Only 16, and from the Hogg dynasty, he is not only a talented player but helps coach a top side, non other than Alexander’s All Blacks from Denholm Primary School!
Linden v's Duns (league) 11th October 2008
Linden maintain 100% record and gain further bonus point against Duns - match report now available.
I'm also wondering if we wrote the Duns version as well !!!! - click here to see the report taken from their website.
Welcome to Duns
We bid a warm welcome to President Walter Stobbie, Coach Allan Paterson and all from Duns RFC who make their first trip to the Volunteer since our meeting in the BT Bowl in 2005 which is recalled in "A Look Back in Time". The Dingers had a bad start to the season losing their first two games, fairly heavily at North Berwick and very narrowly at home to Penicuik. They are currently on a three game winning streak having defeated Dalkeith, Portobello and Meggetland. Following the heady heights of giving Hawick and Stirling County a run for their money in the Cup, as well as winning the Bowl at Murrayfield in 1999, Duns have had a difficult time over the last few seasons slipping down the Leagues but the ship certainly seems to be steadying now with the reduced traveling in the East League helping availability of players, particularly for away games. With a Colts team taking the field again and Minis spotted at Jed last week, things are looking much brighter for our visitors and we trust they will have an enjoyable day.
Sponsors
Grateful thanks to our match sponsors today the Waverley Bar which is a very popular watering hole for many involved with the Linden.
Dalkeith result from last week:
There is still confusion over the final scoreline at Dalkeith last week which those of a Royal Blue persuasion believe to be a 44-0 win for the Linden but is infact shown on the SRU website as 43-5. This has been queried with the SRU but confirmation is still awaited at the time of writing (Thursday).
Taitso says there may be a video of one of the try's from the Dalkeith game. If whoever has the clip wants to send it on to the e-mail addess on the Home Page I'll try and put it on the website.
Golf Run
The annual golf run was a great success at Minto a fortnight ago. Winner was Ali Dunne with a net 66, second was Barry Sutherland on 67 and third place went to Gavin Stirling with 68. A real close run thing which was a great credit to the handicapper who also organized the event, the prizes and even drove the bus. So a big well done to John Tait who was so Fantastic he can do all of it again next year!
Click this link to see more photo's from the day.
Dalkeith RFC v's Linden (league) 4th October 2008 - click here for match report.
There seems to be a bit of confusion over the actual score. So far I've heard 3 !!! - SRU records score as 5 - 43, B. Russell (Senior Match Correspondant) 0 - 44, and John Tait 0 - 48. Our club statistician (Joel) is currently querying the score with SRU - doesn't really matter though, we won, got a bonus point and kept our 100% record.
Linden v's Penicuik (league) click here for match report
Welcome to Penicuik:
We are pleased to welcome our good friends from Penicuik to the Volunteer Park and in particular their new President Alex Pettie and Coach David Aitken. Both sides have 100% records so something will have to give today. Last season the Linden won here 23-15 whilst Penicuik gained revenge in the return winning 10-3, a result which as good as ended our title hopes. We also made an enjoyable trip to Penicuik Sevens at the end of the season, beating Hamilton 19-17 before falling to the home side 7-15 in the second round. Belated thanks to Penicuik players Robert Gullen, Paul Hope and Andrew Bagan who boosted our squad which was short of numbers. No doubt in the future they will proudly tell the grandkids of the day they played for the Linden! Question: how many Linden representatives can you fit in the Penicuik Sevens Committee room? Alas no-one can remember due to blurry drink fuelled memory loss but it certainly seemed a lot. We will be endeavoring to reciprocate some of the hospitality today.
Sponsors:
Today’s match sponsors are the Molloy family, Ann, Ed and Russell. They didn’t have much luck last season sponsoring our cancelled Cup match with Langholm. When the bizarre logic of the Appeals Panel saw us still banned from the Cup, the Molloy’s switched their sponsorship to the Kelso 2nds game. Unfortunately Kelso called off so it is now third time lucky. We hope they have a great afternoon and that Russell is as pleased as he was a fortnight ago when, to mark his fortieth birthday, he was presented with a Club Shield by President Derek Oliver.
North Berwick v's Linden (league) - click here for match report
Primary School Tag Tournament:
Hawick Linden held their 8th annual Tag Tournament at the Volunteer Park on Sunday which saw Trinity A triumph 3 tries to 2 in a thrilling final against Stirches A. After some great rugby Stirches A headed Pool 1 unbeaten with Trinity B runners-up. In Pool 2 Trinity A had a 100% record and Wilton squeezed out Drumlanrig B for second place. With each group winner playing the runner-up of the other group in the semi-finals, the unusual scenario arose of Trinity A meeting their B side. The A team sneaked home 3-2 to set up the final against Stirches A who overcame Wilton 2-1 in the other semi-final.
The final was yet another close contest. Morgan Tait and Dai Swailes scored tries for Stirches but it wasn’t enough as Trinity tries were scored by Lewis Stormont, Deaglan Lightfoot and Lisa Thomson. A triumphant Trinity captain Lewis Ferguson collected the trophy from Linden Vice-President Gary Alexander with all finalists receiving well deserved medals.
The Linden Club wish to thank all helpers on the day, particularly Moira Black in the kitchen, referees Craig Smith, Davy Gray and Lee Robson as well as Brian Renwick and Rocky Johnstone for their assistance.
Linden v's Quins (league - 13/09/08)
Linden win local derby - click here for match report
Todays sponsors:
Match sponsors are Hawick Cashmere Shima Technicians & Friends, in other words, Lord Broon and his thirsty gang. Many thanks to them all for their valued support.
Presidents Message:
Well it hardly seems like a year ago since I had the honour of becoming Club President. On the playing front last season, after an excellent run of 13 games undefeated, we eventually finished a very creditable second in the league losing out only on bonus points.
Off the field last season we had a very successful ex-players day followed by a memorable lunch prior to our postponed Cup fixture with Langholm.
As always I wish to thank all our sponsors for their continued support over the forthcoming season which certainly helps with our travel costs.
In closing we are again fortunate to have John Tait and Brian Wear as Club coaches. I know they are as keen as ever for success and with a bit more regular attendance/numbers at training, particularly during the winter months, I am sure that we can mount a strong challenge and hopefully improve on last season.
Best of luck to all the players!
Derek Oliver
President, Hawick Linden RFC
Club Captain 2008/09:
| Captain for this season is hooker Lee Stewart. A former PSA and Hawick player, who captained the PSA to the semi junior league and Scottish cup double. He also represented the Borders at u16 and the Eastern Stormers at u18. |
Linden Annual Dinner: Hawick Linden recently held another successful annual dinner at Mansfield House Hotel on 18th April. To view pictures from the evening go to "End of Season Dinner 2008" in the Navigation list on left hand side (view as a slide-show for best results) - if you can come up with any more captions to go with the pictures then send them to the Guestbook. Big thanks go to Ian and Sheila MacKinnon and staff at the Mansfield House Hotel and the lads who kept everyone well refreshed during the eveninig. Also a big thank you to our speakers and singers, who kept everyone well entertained at what was an excellent night.
Welcome to Portobello (22nd March 2008) We bid a very warm welcome to President Ian Goodall and all from Portobello who return to the Volunteer after a season’s break in East League Division Two. The Linden made two trips in quick succession to Portobello earlier in the season. Honours are currently even with the Linden winning the Cup match and Porty the League game on a momentous day for their club as they re-opened their refurbished clubrooms following the fire which completely destroyed the internal fabric of the building. The most enjoyable pre-match buffet was a complete contrast for the Linden contingent who had two weeks earlier experienced the delights of Oman’s prior to the Cup game. Ah, Oman’s, thank goodness the clubrooms were fully operational on our return! Sponsors Today’s match sponsors are the Carnarvon Street Gang who are led by former Linden player and Committee member, Jim Paxton. The Club is extremely grateful for their support and we are sure they will have an enjoyable afternoon – and probably evening as well! Thanks also to Ian Armstrong who recently provided £50 sponsorship to the Club. Players It was great to see some of the semi-juniors turning out for the Linden over the last couple of weeks. Ross Norman, Blair Irving, Lee Armstrong, Michael Clamp, Kieran Willison and Gary Lowrie all made very promising debuts. It was also good to see Lee Stewart return to action at Melrose and not forgetting that other promising youngster Rob Black who sneaked into the fray at Selkirk !! Brian Wear’s majestic touchline conversion at Melrose brought up his century of points for the season. With Steven Beattie having accumulated 210 points, could this be the first ever instance of two Linden players topping 100 points in the same season?
All at the Linden were saddened to hear of the recent passing of ex Linden player and past captain Robert (Bert) Nichol.
Bert was not only a great asset on the field as a player, but also off the field - as bus driver for away games - a very useful combination!! Long time friend and playing companion Tony Storrie re-called “a dinnae ken what oo wud o done if hied broke his leg during an away game!!" Tony also remembered a particular game at Langholm, where the normal post-game entertainment was to attend the Saturday night Langholm dance. Unfortunately on this occasion the dance was cancelled, so instead of heading back to Hawick, Bert took the bus on a short detour over the “Holm Hill” to Copshaw Holm, where apparently a great night was had.
Bert played many times for the Linden at wing-forward and helped the club lift the Border Junior League title in 1949- 50. Bert also played a number of times for Hawick, however the Linden was his favoured team.
Linden RFC would like to extend our sincere sympathy and condolences to all his family and friends.
Welcome to Langholm ... well almost!!
We had hoped to to bid a warm welcome to a much larger contingent from Langholm, however the weather prevented our cup game taking place. None the less, a number of "Langholmites" did make the relatively short journey "down" the A7 to attend the Linden's inaugural pre-game "corporate" lunch, which was a great success.
It was an even shorter trip than to Mansfield for the Langholm faithfull as, for the Volunteer, they take a first left after the "Welcome to Hawick, twinned with Balliol" sign (if you haven't been to The Muckle Toon for a while their sign says "Welcome to Langholm, twinned with the Tait family!"). The Langholm coaches this season are Walter Hislop and Chris Grant, who have had to deal with a horrendous injury list and currently sit mid-table in National One. Star player is the "Good-Un," former Scotland A, Borders and Edinburgh Reivers player, Keith Davidson. At one time he was struggling for game time at the Reivers prompting Ian Barnes to state, "Frank Hadden wouldn’t recognise a rugby player if he came up and hit him over the head with a banjo!". Anyway, hopefully this game will be played in the next couple of weeks, when we'll be treated to what I'm sure will be a hard fought, but exciting game of border cup rugby - and provide a further opportunity to boost the coffers of the Volunteer bar !!!
Despite no game taking place, a very successful afternoon (and evening for some!!) was had by all at the pre-arranged pre-game lunch. A company of approx 86 souls enjoyed an afternoon of good food, drink and top class entertainment. A huge thank you must be made to all who contributed and made this such a great day. A number of sponsors were obtained for this event, namely Hawick Knitwear who generously sponsored the pre-match meal, with the wine supplied by Ian MacKinnon of the Mansfield House Hotel - the Linden’s match jersey sponsors. Ann and Russell Malloy donated the main raffle prize of a day’s golf and dinner for two at Torwoodlee, Ann is regularly seen at home games whilst Russell is one of the club’s most loyal supporters, following his beloved Linden both home and away – it helps cheer him up from the woes of supporting the Jambos. The main raffle prize was won by Lord, Sir Ronnie Tait, MBE,CBE, OBE and all round "non-golfer" who immediately and very generously put the prize up for auction with a final bid of £70.00 being achieved. The 2nd prize of a signed Ospreys rugby jersey was won by our guest speaker for the afternoon, ex-Langholm middle row and Cornet, David McVittie. David also put his prize up for auction and raised a further £40.00. With a large amount already raised from the raffle the "£" signs in President Oliver's eyes were "fare bulgin" !!! - thanks to both for the kind gesture.
A big thanks must also be made (once again) to Moira Black and her team who provided and served an excellent meal and the Voluntereer bar staff and waiters, who kept the company well refreshed throughout the afternnon. Guest speaker David McVittie had his audience in raptures with a series of witty and entertaining stories, delivered in a "dead-pan" style, which everyone enjoyed. Viv Sharpe and Wullie Grey once again proved that the Linden are still the envy of all the Hawick clubs, with a couple of songs delivered in their own inimitable styles. Finally, a big thanks to all who attended and took part in what was a great (and what will hopefully be) an annual event - I'm sure I'll be told very quickly at the next committee meeting if I've missed out anyone, if so, I apologise and promise to make amends in my next update!!
P.S. - I can't take credit for most of the above information / humour, as much is pinched from the match programme, which is painstakingly put together for all home games by Club Vice-President "Joel" Alexander. All I do is copy and paste Joel's work onto the website - thanks Joel, your obsession with statistics etc is .... scarey?????!!!!!!!! Take a look at "A Look Back in Time", which is also produced by Joel.
Welcome to Earston - League (19th January 2008)
We extend a warm welcome to our belated first foots Earlston RFC and their President Keith Watson. Keith may not be able to make it today so his Vice-President Hugh Briggs could be in charge. Coaches this season are Kevin Graham and Brian Park who was lured from St Boswells on the promise of a Jackie Lunn’s pie and a couple of out of date bottles of Export. Our visitors are having a tough season and have yet to record a win following their promotion last season. In an effort to strengthen their squad Earlston have searched far and wide for players, they’ve brought Xavier Saucony all the way from France (well, Heriot Watt Uni to be exact) and even gone as far as Kelso for middle row Ali Adams. We hope our visitors enjoy their day at the Volunteer and can pick up a win before the end of the season.
Sponsors
Today’s match ball sponsor is Gary Cairns who played for many years at wing forward for the Linden and has even managed to pull the Royal Blue jersey on a couple of times this season. The Teas have been sponsored by "The Grumpy Old Men" – their choice of phrase I hasten to add. For those not aware the trio are Ronnie Tait, Bill Young and Viv Sharp. One feels their title is a little unkind and should perhaps have been, "The Really Grumpy, Mumping Old Men, plus Viv." A big thank you to them all and let’s hope the grumps continue their wonderful support of the Volunteer bar takings.
Click link for "A look back in time..."
Xmas Dominoes
It seems a long time since the ‘Quins game when the annual Doms took place. The eventual winner was Bill Russell who defeated Alan Stirling in the final with Ali Dunne and Greg Cunningham the beaten semi-finalists. A much larger entry is expected next year now that it has come to light Bill’s prize was a trip to New Zealand!!
Welcome to Hawick Harlequins - League (15th December 2007)
We extend a warm welcome to President Alan Bell and all from Hawick Harlequins to the Volunteer Park. Alan is also Fixture Secretary, Match Secretary and Referee Secretary but lost out on the full-house of Secretary positions to Gregor Sharp who is the Honorary Secretary. Nice of Alan to let someone else do something! Coach this season is John Peffers who uses his involvement with the Quins as a release from his day job which involves running around looking after Coby at the High School. Perhaps he could stretch to looking after him following today’s game to allow Joel a week off from buying Coby drink. The Quins have not been having the greatest of season’s but are always extremely tough opponents at the Volunteer, winning here last season with the Linden snatching victory from the jaws of defeat the season before.
Sponsors
Today’s match sponsors are Hawick Cashmere Shima Technicians and Friends. The usual "gang" are our former hooker (and head of the back-of-the-bus wine club), Lord Brown of Crumhaugh, together with ex-players Andrew Telfer and David Crudge (who will be joining us later as he takes charge of his first Premier Two game today). We thank them and all of their company here today for their continued support.
Welcome to Broughton - League (1st December 2007):
We extend a warm welcome to President Mark Brown, Coach Graham Bonnar and all from Broughton RFC. Mark doubles, or is that trebles, up as touch judge and match reporter easily proving that men can do more than one thing at a time. Whilst scouring the Broughton website he was rather unkindly referred to in one of the player profiles as, "He’s a twat but I’ve heard he’s good at admin". I think it’s safe to say that no-one at the Linden would stoop so low and publicly state that our President was good at admin. Flanker Adam McFarlane when asked to give one interesting fact about himself that people are not aware of claims, "I am the Stig!" We’ve no wish to start another brawl like at North Berwick, but actually our full-back is the Stig. And so is his dad – and his brother. Centre Nick Keenan’s interesting fact is that his dad was the voiceover for Family Fortunes ("Tell ‘em what they’ve won Steve"). Well, we don’t think that’s particularly interesting at all. Far more interesting is that he played against Gordon D’Arcy in a Leinster Schools Quarter Final in 1996. We do agree however with his fellow Irishman, winger Darragh Lenihan, who would spend his lottery winnings buying the twins from Sweet Valley High. Good choice. Anyway, we certainly hope the game is interesting and that it is the Linden who manage to fulfill some of their fantasies!
Sponsors:
The match ball sponsor for the Broughton game are our good friends from over the Dunion, Clarke Scott and Len Wyse, aka Jed Folk. Sponsoring the teas is Barry Russell who first played for the Linden against Kelso 2nds in 1991. Thank you to all our sponsors for their support.
If anyone else has cuttings/scrapbooks covering any games prior to the mid-1980’s, please contact Joel so that we can dig back to other periods of the club’s history. Any items will of course be returned.
Welcome to Leith RFC - League (17th November 2007)
A warm welcome to President John McMaster, Coach Robin Hamilton and all from Leith RFC as they visit Hawick for the second week in a row. Last Saturday saw Leith sneak home 17-15 against the ‘Quins. In our first game of the season the Linden won 38-22 in a very tough game against a heavy pack and physical set of backs. Our two sides first met on League business last season with the Linden completing the double in what were also hard earned victories. Prior to meeting in the League we last played eachother in January 1993 at Hawkhill. No doubt today will be another hard test as the Linden look to get back to winning ways.
Sponsors
Today’s match sponsors are Buccleuch Printers who have been great supporters of the Linden for many years. They were the first sponsor whose name appeared on the Linden playing jersey. The club is extremely grateful for their continued support.
Raymond Corbett/Jim Stirling
It is with much regret that we record the recent deaths of Raymond Corbett and Jim Stirling. Raymond played for the Linden in the late 1940’s into the 1950’s, his last playing season being 1957/58. He joined the General Committee the following season before firstly becoming Secretary and then Fixture Secretary through to 1969/70. Jim was a most popular supporter who followed the Linden faithfully for many years providing great friendship to one of our most enthusiastic supporters, Russell Molloy. The Club’s condolences are extended to both families.
Portobello RFC - League (10th November 2007)
This game ended in great disappointment as our 100% record for the season finally came to an end. However, at the start of the season we would no doubt have taken an eight wins from nine games record for the first half of the League campaign. There was further disappointment for our supporters as the re-opening of the Portobello clubrooms meant there was no time available to reacquaint ourselves with our friends in Oman’s!
If you want to view some photo's of the game - albeit from a Portobello perspective - use the following link - Portobello RFC and scroll down the page a bit (wudnae bother wi the match report though .. might be too painful!!)
Welcome to Penicuik RFC - League (3rd November 2007)
We bid a warm welcome to President John Sheerin and all from Penicuik RFC on their fourth League visit to the Volunteer Park. The previous games have seen the Linden win twice and Penicuik triumph 20-14 in our first ever League meeting in September 2004. Away from home the Linden also hold a 2-1 lead. Our visitors narrowly lost their first League match of the season at Broughton but have won every game since so another close fought game is no doubt on the cards.
Sponsors
A belated thank you to John Tait of Options & Choices for sponsoring the water bottles for this season. Thank you as well to former Linden player and coach Jock Rae for sponsoring today’s game.
Portobello RFC - Scottish Cup (27th October 2007)
A hard fought win at Portobello over a team who were vastly improved since we last played them, saw the Linden progress to the third round. This week’s draw landed us an exciting home tie with Langholm at the Volunteer on 2nd February 2008. The boys from the Muckle Toon are currently in National League Division One and should bring a good sized support (and that’s just Taitso’s relations).
We were the first visitors to use Portobello’s refurbished clubrooms following a fire in May which completely destroyed the internal fabric of the building. They were not quite ready to open before the match as work continued both before and during the game. Our thirsty support therefore had to make alternative pre-match arrangements in the nearest watering hole with the unusual name, Oman’s. We will be back at Portobello soon when the formal re-opening of the clubrooms will take place. In case any of our followers decide to make a return visit to Oman’s, they would probably be well advised to take note of the following Do’s and Dont's to maximize their enjoyment of the Oman’s experience.
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Do |
Don’t |
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Make sure you are in a company of at least 20 when visiting this establishment |
Sit too far from the door – right next to it is advisable |
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Avoid eye contact with the locals |
Take your wallet out in front of the patrons |
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Shake the hand of anyone who offers theirs to you |
Wipe off dirt/grease/tobacco residue from your hand within view of your new friend |
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Agree to enter this week’s pub bonus ball draw when asked |
Enter your bank details on a standing order form for future draws |
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Take a pool cue with you when visiting the toilet |
Go to the toilet on your own |
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Agree with anything being said to you by the regulars (even if you are in complete disagreement) |
Discuss rising house prices, living off the state, the cost of new tyres for your 4 x 4, benefit fraud, poor returns on your share dividends, etc., etc. |
Many thanks to Catriona MacKinnon for passing on a photo of a recent resident at the Mansfield House. The picture, which is in Rugby Photos was taken at a recent function attended by many of the Linden players. The older gentleman surrounded by the shifty characters, is Geoff Larkham, father of Stephen Larkham, the Australian Stand Off. Geoff is an old friend of Ian MacKinnon and stopped off in Hawick for a visit after Australia were knocked out of the World Cup. During his visit to Hawick Ian took Geoff to a Linden training session (no doubt looking for some tips) and was also presented with a club tie (wearing it in picture) and a copy of the 75 year book as a gift.
What Geoff apparently doesn't realise is that there's no such thing as a "free lunch" and we'll be expecting the services of his son next season!!
Bruce Hay
All at Hawick Linden RFC were saddened by the passing of Bruce Hay on Monday morning after a long illness. Bruce started his rugby career at Liberton and was part of the very successful Liberton side of the late sixties/early seventies and was club captain from 1970–1972. While at Liberton he was selected on many occasions for the Edinburgh Junior District side and various Scottish Junior Select sides. He made his full debut for the senior Edinburgh district side in 1972 while still a Liberton player and shortly afterwards moved to Boroughmuir. He appeared over 40 times for the full district side and was capped 23 times by Scotland for whom he scored three tries including two against the All Blacks. He was selected to tour with the British and Irish Lions in both 1977 and 1980. On the 1980 tour to South Africa Bruce played in the last three tests, scoring a try in the 3rd, and captained the midweek Lions on two occasions. After retiring Bruce coached Boroughmuir to their first official Scottish league title and also served in coaching and managerial positions for Edinburgh, Scotland Under 18 and 19. Although it is not known if he ever turned out at the Volunteer, one certainly recalls him a few years ago enjoying a drink and a laugh with his good friend John Thorburn just over the fence in the Cricket Club. The Linden extend their sincere sympathies to Bruce Hay’s family, in particular his brother Alan the current Liberton President. As a mark of respect a minutes silence will be observed before the game with Liberton.
