Aytre RFC - La Rochelle, France
14-5-09
Aytre 12 Hawick Linden 20
Linden celebrated their championship winning season with a tour to La Rochelle, where they defeated the local Aytre club by 20 points to 12, the match was played at the La Rochelle Stadium, home to the professional side.A party of 28 made the trip led by President Derek Oliver made up of 16 players and 12 committee leaving on the Wednesday morning and returning on the Sunday night. Play kicked of on a balmy night with Aytre showing they had speedy backs and big forwards, some of them not the most agile.A bad start for Linden as they almost immediatly lost flanker Greg Cunningham with a eye injury allowing Keith Murray to make his final appearnce for the club. Things got rapidly worse as hooker Lee Stewart had to leave the field with a leg injury. The home side kindly lent them a substitute who turned out to be not a bad player.Linden were first on the score sheet when mid way through half, good work by forwards saw Keith Murray pass to Brian Wear who fed Steven Bouglas back inside to B Wear who absolutly shot over the line, Barry Sutherland converted. From the kick off Aytre won the ball and lost possesion over Linden`s line ,quick thinking by B Wear saw a drop out sail down into Aytre`s half S Bouglas was quickly up to take advantage passing on to brother Greg Bouglas who replied the complement by sending in brother Steven for his fifteenth try of the season. B Sutherland converted. This roused Aytre into life with their speedy wingers causing damage they picked up two quick trys,one being converted. After Jock Rae had gave a rollikicking half time team talk the match was more closely fought. Flowing from end to end and at no time was any leeway givien,another injury , East Div 1 player of the year Craig Smith had to leave field the hosts kindly gave another replacement. B Sutherland kicked a penalty. Mid way through the half a kick through saw Greg Bouglas almost clear when a had pulled his jersey and it looked as if Steven Bouglas had won the race to touch down first, but the ref awarded a penalty,though a penalty try would have been fairer,however Barry Sutherland kick penalty to bring his total for year to whacking 287 points in 24 games. A good victory for Linden, a successful end to a sucessful season.
Team B Sutherland S Bouglas G Anderson G Bouglas S Forrest B Wear S Campbell J Tait L Stewart B Keown J Scott W Davies G Cunningham R Smith C Smith K Murray Christofer Bayet and Sebastien Darles(French)
Scottish Hydro Electric Plate Semi-Final
25-4-09
Hawick Linden 19 Aberdeen University 34
Lindens run in the Plate came to an end against the current holders Aberdeen University.
In a cracking match and great advertisment for running rugby both teams set up a feast of rugby at its best. The students turned out to be a very good side which did not bely their position in the Calodonian league.Slick of hand and pace, Linden at times were caught out with the pace of the game.There was no disgrace in defeat and it is a pity that this game did not grace Murrayfield. From the kick off Linden were on the attack,some better finishing could have seen a Linden try in corner. Off the hook, a fine move saw Aberdeen sweep almost lenght of field to score a try in corner, followed quickly with an converted try, Linden seemed shellshocked twelve points down in as many minutes. Linden fought back with Wattie Davies rampaging up the middle, center Graeme Anderson side stepped oposition,taken on by Barry Sutherland out to Darrel Gray who romped in at posts. B Sutherland converted. With Linden back in the game ,disaster, a very slack line. The students wing forward was through in a flash another 5 points down, Linden had hardly recovered from this before they had conceeded another try just on half time, 22-7 down things looked bleak. One thing that Linden has this season is fighting qualitys, taking play to the students,an alert Stuart Campbell found center Mark McCall to Gary Wardle on to G Anderson who shot through a gap to score at posts, B Sutherland converted.Linden now had their tails up,three times in succesion the ref, disallowed what looked like good trys with the faraway touch judge giving the O.K. to one of them,but the ref,would not be moved which was strange as the stand side touch judge seemed to be running the game at times. Linden showed resilence and kept Aberdeen on the back foot,from llose play the ball was whipped along for Jamie Scott to sail in at corner. linden back in the game at 22-19. From a poorly defended kick off Linden found themselves in trouble, as the ref penalised them 5 times on the trot , the heavier students trundled the ball over the line. With time running out, Aberdeen finished off with another try which made the final total a wider margin than the game really was.So the Murrayfield dream is over, but Linden should not be down hearted this was a very good side they were up against, unfortunatly the best two sides are not going to be at Murrayfield but that how knock out competion works.After the game Linden presented Aberdeen with an Linden shield donated by Jim(Bamp) Millar and his wife Susan.
Team D Gray S Bouglas G Anderson M McCall G Bouglas B Sutherland S Campbell G Wardle L Stewart R Norman B Keown W Davies G Cunningham R Smith C Smith G Stirling J Scott S Harkness S Forrest
Scottish Hydro Electric Plate Quarter Final
18-4-09
Hawick Linden 46 Crieff and Strathearn 3
Linden`s style of play simply blew their visitors out of the Plate quarter-final on Saturday,playing running rugby at every opportunity,it is fair to say, they had them run ragged at the end, also the ref, who struggled to keep up with play.Linden set their stall out straight from the off ,attack was the game, Greg Bouglas was adjudged offside as he ran in to score. Not put off by this Linden opened their account, clean ball from Craig Smith in the line out,out along backs full back Gavin Stirling into line out to Steven Bouglas who showed a touch of class as he glided past probably the oppositions best player at full back to touch down,a cracker of a try to start with more to follow, Barry Sutherland converted. Back on attack B Sutherland dropped a goal after Gary Wardle and G Bouglas had harried the opposition up the touch line. From the kick off Graeme Anderson broke the Crieff& Strathearn line taken on by G Stirling out to B Sutherland who picked the pass up from his boot laces to run in unopposed to score at posts and convert. A historic moment as he passed Steven Beatties 261 points record for the Linden. A penalty gave the visitors some respite. Then just on half time with Lindens forwards pounding the opposition line scrum half Stuart Campbell broke,taken on by S Bouglas, B Sutherland sold the opposition and team mate G Bouglas an outrageous dummy as he sailed in to touch down. Turning round 22-3 up ,Linden soon added to the score, good work by Wattie Davies and Gary Wardle out to backs, Darrel Gray who had come on as replacement at full back powered through a bemused defence to touch down at posts, B Sutherland converting. From line out Jamie Scott of the top ball, quickly moved along back line and Greg Bouglas shot in at corner,lovely try a treat to watch,B Sutherland converted. After a perfectly good try by S Bouglas was disallowed by the visitors touch judge when he was in no position to see. From resultant line out the ball was whipped along line for brother Greg Bouglas to score in opposite corner. With time running out J Scott had a good run ,won back by forwards for B Sutherland to put in chip kick and G Bouglas completed his hat trick of trys. A good result for Linden, entertaining rugby to watch and a pat on the back, for the team who the night before had celebrated at the annual dinner.
Team G Stirling S Bouglas G Anderson B Wear G Bouglas B Sutherland S Campbell G Wardle L Stewart S Harkness B Keown W Davies G Cunningham R Smith C Smith D Gray M McCall R Norman J Scott
By Bill Russell
Scottish Hydro Electric Div 1 East
11-4-09
Hawick Linden 27 Dunbar 21
Lindens match with Dunbar finished with a controversial end . With Dunbar attacking and what looked like a penalty to Linden for not releasing the ball in front of posts.The penalty instead,was awarded to Dunbar which was duly converted ,the refferree blowing for time early to wild jubilation from Dunbar team and supporters, the bonus point saving them from relagatiion. For the second week running an under par performance from the Linden with the League allready won, some of edge has gone from their game. Dunbar took the lead early on with a penalty , with play fairly even Linden came to life from a chip and chase by Barry Sutherland ,Steven Bouglas had a good run but was pulled down short of line.From resultant play ball was through backs Stuart Renwick and B Su0therland whose chip kick found Graeme Anderson in the clear to score. B Sutherland kicked a penalty . Then a nice move by backs B Sutherland ,G Anderson,S Renwick saw winger S Bouglas race in at corner. Just when Linden were expecting to draw clear, Dunbar hit back with a converted try and penalty to make half time score 13 all. From inside own half B Sutherland ,S Renwick fed fullback Mark McCall who made a lovely break to open up Dunbar defence sending G Anderson in to touch down , B Sutherland converting. Dunbar were not lying down though and replied with a well worked try. A speculative clearance kick by G Anderson found the oppositions full back all at sea , the same player was up to hack on with Greg Bouglas on hand to pick up and score, B Sutherland converted. For LInden M McCall G Anderson were in good form newcomers S Renwick Craig Russell showed up well.In the forwards Rory Smith took choice ball in line out, also showing up wellin loose Gary Wardle and Wattie Davies to the fore. While the end did not affect Linden, they won with a bonus point. Game will have to be stepped up on Saturday when they take on Crieff & Strathearn in Plate quater final.
Team M McCall S Bouglas G Anderson S Renwick G Bouglas B Sutherland S Campbell G Wardle L Stewart S Harkness J Scott D Beattie S Forrest R Smith W Davies R Norman B Law C Russell D Gray K Mabon.
Scottish Hydro Electric Div 1 East
4-4-09
Hawick Linden 21 Meggatland 8
Linden struggled to overcome a stuffy Meggatland side who at times showed great enterprise and good ball skills ,one wonders how they are struggling at the bottom of league .Admitedly Linden had several first team players injured or not available but this was a chance for the rest of squad to get some game time. In a fairly even first half played with a swirling wind which made the flight of the ball difficult to control Meggatland were the only scorers with a penalty after Linden were caught offside. Turning round and with the benefit of the wind Linden were soon on the attack and in the lead. Graeme Anderson mesmorised the Meggatland defence as he zig-zagged his way to the posts to score, Barry Sutherland converting. Almost from the kick off hooker Lee Stewart secured an strike against the head,Stuart Campbell to B Sutherland inside to centre Graeme Colville who powered his way up the centre of the field to score,B Sutherland converting. Some slack defending from Linden and Meggatland worked a nice try up the touchline. Linden back on the attack and a speculative cross kick from B Sutherland caught the Meggatland defence in all kinds of trouble, up sailed Steven Forrest to catch ball and sail in unaposed to score, B Sutherland converted. Not one of Linden1s best games of the season but keeps them on track to complete their league campaign undefeated. For Linden G Anderson was in fine form,S Campbell and the Bouglas brothers in the backs, In the forwards Wattie Davies put in a power of work, D Beattie till he tired later on, Ross Norman in the front row well led by captain L Stewart.
Team C Black S Bouglas G Anderson M McCall G Bouglas C Sutherland S Campbell R Norman L Stewart S Harknes J Scott D Beattie G Cunningham R Smith W Davies S Forrest G Colville B Law J Tait K Murray
Scottish Hydro Electric Div 1 East
28-3-09
Broughton 16 Hawick Linden 29
Linden traveled to Broughton on Saturday and came away with 5points not one of their best displays against a team that had little in the way to offer other than barging runs from their big forwards and a stand off whos only means of attack was the inside pass.It could prove a costly game for Linden who lost 3 players during game with leg injuries, Darrel Gray, Brian Wear and Craig Smith. This caused Linden to have to continually reshuffle which did not help general display. Playing against a very strong wind first half Linden soon found themselves 11points down through a couple of penaltys and a try.
In between only poor finishing saved the home side as Steven Bouglas and Graeme Anderson were causing a lot of concern to the home side with some abbrasive running in the backs. Just before half time a nice break by G Anderson opened up the defence taken on by full back Craig Black inside pass to Barry Sutherland who looped him to sail in at corner flag. With the wind second half it was only a matter of time before Lindens class showed taking control of game. A break by Craig Smith after clever work by Steven Harkness saw the lanky No8 Smith stroll in to score.From a breakdown in an Broughton attack G Anderson hacked through for B Sutherlad to pick up and sprint in to score.After the home side had worked their way up to Linden line ,good work by Linden forwards saw B Sutherland clear down field ,poor kick from defence S Harkness pick up clearance and sent C Smith in to score, B Sutherland converted .Break by Graeme Colville out to B Sutherland and Steven Bouglas outstripped the defence to touch down,B Sutherland converted. Though Linden continued to pressure the home side C Black and G Wardle had trys cancelled for what the ref deemed forward passes but let try for Broughton stand in dying minutes from a blatant 2yards forward pass. Not one of Lindens best performances, though there had to be some reaction after the the last two games of putting their two nearest rivals to the sword and winning the League in style. When 11points down Linden still managed to up the ante proving what a good side they are.
Team D Gray S Bouglas G Anderson B Wear G Bouglas B Sutherland S Campbell G Wardle L Stewart R Norman J Tait J Scott G Cunningham R Smith C Smith C Black S Harkness S Forrest G Colville K Murray.
Scottish Hydro Electric Div 1 East
21-3-09
Hawick Harlequins 13 Hawick Linden 40
On a lovely spring day,good underfoot with a brisk wind channelling down pitch in front of a large crowd. Linden put on a champions display as they overwhelmed the Quins to win the League title. Puting on a display of 15man running rugby they completly outplayed the Quins second half. Playing controlled rugby against the wind first half and taking a slight lead into the change round it looked ominous for the Quins and so it turned out as Linden turned on the style second half with the Linden forwards well led by captain Lee Stewart in complete control, sending back choice ball to the backs who responded brilliantly as they ran the Quins ragged at times. In fact the latter stages looked more like Sevens rugby and to their credit the Quins did respond likewise. Facing the wind almost from the kick off, Linden winger Greg Bouglas had a great run up the wing from deep,leaving his opposite number stranded,from pass inside, Quins offended and Barry Sutherland converted penalty. Quins were using the brisk wind to their advantage keeping Linden penned back ,with D Ritson kicking penalty after Linden infringed at the ruck then another after Linden prop was yellow carded. This only spurred Linden on No8 Craig Smith had a 60metre run through the Quins defence only to be pulled down short of line. From resultant play solid Linden scrum, good clean ball along back line with full back Gavin Stirling injecting pace to send in G Bouglas at corner, 8-6 to Linden at turn around. From the kick off Quins infringed ,B Sutherland kicked penalty. Linden forwards in total control Gary Wardle burst through a ragged defence taken on by Barrie Keown out to G Stirling who tore down the wing and dived in at corner.Nice burst down touch line by scrum half Stuart Campbell who was giving his opposite number a torrid time, out to Brain Wear ,Wattie Davies outstanding in the tight drove on with Steven Harkness to G Bouglas who was driven over by forwards to score, B Sutherland converted.After a bit of confrontation Quins player received yellow card as they began to loose the place . Ball taken into maul,out burst prop Gary Wardle to charge 40metres through some non existant tackles to touch down under posts,B Sutherland converted.With backs and forwards interpassing Steven Bouglas broke through several tackles to score ,B Sutherland converting.Things got worse for Quins as they lost another player to a yellow card. After anaother Linden attack broke down B Wear nochantly dropped a goal. With the game won for Linden both teams began flinging the ball about at random ,N Douglas latched onto an inter ception to touch down for Quins D Ritson converting. A Superb display from Linden a real Squad effort (meaning all the players not just those that start the game) to have won League with still four games to play, fantastic scoring an average of 33points per game. Well done to the coaching staff of John Tait, Brian Wear , Sponge man and selector Brian Nichol and team manager Keith Murray
Team G Stirling S Bouglas G Anderson B Wear G Bouglas B Sutherland S Campbell G Wardle L Stewart R Norman B Keown W Davies G Cunningham R Smith C Smith D Gray J Scott S Harkness S Forrest S Hinton
Scottish Hydro Electric Div 1 East
7-3-09
Portobello 3 Hawick Linden 24
In the battle at the top of the league Div1 East unbeaten leaders Linden, came away with a comprehensive victory over second place Portobello. Linden lost the toss and kicked off with a gale at their backs.Up against a massive pack ,if Linden were to win they would have to match them up front this they did splendidly, especially the second half. From the kick of it was all Linden as they hemmed Portobello back in own half. Though having advantage of wind, Linden failed in a way to capitalise on it, several try scoring chances were wasted with hasty passing . After 20minutes Barry Sutherland put Linden in lead with penalty, followed shortly after with another when scrum half Stuart Campbell was impeded at ruck. This led to Lindens only bad mistake of the game as they got in an awful tangle from kick off and conceded a penalty in front of posts. Back on attack another penalty from B Sutherland when Portobello were penalised for off side ,after missing a long range penalty just on half time he had to retire with back injury. At the turn around, Portobello must have been rubbing their hands, six points down with a gale force wind at their backs ,easy. Well they were in for a shock as Linden turned on one of the finest second half displays in their history as they completely overwhelmed the opposition with some superb handling interplay between backs and forwards.A hasty reshuffle of the back line saw Brian Wear move to stand off, Gavin Stirling into centre,Darrel Gray to full back.In the forwards Ross(the smallest Linden Player ) Norman replaced the biggest Barrie Keown at prop. From the kick off Linden took play to Portobello, B Wear chipping away at territory as the forwards took command.With the Smith brother securing good possession at line outs and Portobellos forwards frustration at not securing ball led to them giving away a succession of penalty's. The ref had had enough and Portobello forward was yellow carded.From penalty Rory Smith drove forward good ball recycled by forwards and B Wear sliced through a bemused defence to score.Almost from kick off good driving work by Wattie Davies and Gary ( if he do`snt get a haircut and shave, Martin Castrogiovanni of Italy) Wardle set up ball ,for the rest of forwards and backs to take forward with Jamie Scott diving in at corner. The last try was a cracker superb break by S Cambell from maul in own half through defence long floated pass to Steven Bouglas who strode in at corner.By this time the whistle could not come quick enough for Portobello as Linden proceeded to put on show their skills with ball in hand and how good they were. A superb result for the Linden not just the starting team but the full squad, but no more than they deserved ,if you play good rugby you deserve the plaudits. The domination of Linden is shown that a four point victory over Dalkeith on Saturday will secure the league even though they still have another four games to play.
Team G Stirling S Bouglas G Anderson B Wear G Bouglas B Sutherland S Campbell G Wardle L Stewart B Keown J Scott W Davies G Cunningham R Smith C Smith R Norman D Gray S Harkness S Forrest C Black
Scottish Hydro Electric Plate 2nd Round
21-2-09
Carnoustie HS FP 12 Hawick Linden 46
Linden traveled to Carnoustie and came away with a well earned victory on Saturday against a team in a league lower but with ambitions to climb higher.. Linden won the toss and elected to play with a quite stiff breeze at their backs. Carnoustie kicked off and soon found themselves defending on own line as stand off Barry Sutherland kept them pined back on own line with some clever diagonal kicks. The points soon flowed as Carnousties forwards could not handle Linden forwards in rucking and mauling giving away a succesion of penaltys. Barry Sutherland kicked two penaltys and a drop goal. From the last kick off Lee Stewart caught and with a searing break was through the defence for Brian Wear to carry on and send Greg Bouglas in from the 22metre line. Some really poor defending and so unlike Linden allowed the Carnoustie inside center to wriggle through several attempted tackles for a converted try. This was a wake up call as straight from kick off,a Linden scrum was won, scrum half Stuart Campbell out to B Sutherland miss pass to full back Darrel Gray who found no defenders at home as he scorched over to touch down , B Sutherland converted. With Linden forwards piling on the pressure and Linden backs running know at every opportunity. A high tackle on a Linden back saw B Sutherland slot over another penalty.The next try was a beauty Greg Bouglas from a clearance kick by Carnoustie up wing, inside pass to L Stewart back to Greg inside again to the ever present Greg Cunningham who scampered over. Just on half time B Sutherland landed his fourth penalty. Linden now had to face an ever present wind, so it was run the ball at every opportunity, with the Carnoustie stand off not a patch on B Sutherland tactically there was plenty of loose kicks to tidy up.Good interplay between Linden backs and Barrie Keown found himself on wing with a long way to go but a cleaver inside pass to Graeme Anderson who sig zaged his way through a by now completly bewildered defence and touch down at posts, B Sutherland converted. Linden by this time were playing some beatiful rugby and only the big clearance kick by Carnoustie saved them.From one such clearance Gavin Stirling set off from own line,taken on by B Wear for for G Anderson to scorch up line to Craig Black who was impeded as he went to touch down the ref pointed to posts a penalty try, B Sutherland converted. Right on full time whistle as Linden launched another raid which broke down the opposition full back picked up and scamped down the wing unaposed to score.A good win for Linden after a long bus journey and a home tie against Carrick on Sunday at the Volunteer Park.
Team D Gray S Bouglas G Anderson B Wear G Bouglas B Sutherland S Campbell G Wardle L Stewart S Harkness B Keown J Scott G Cunningham R Smith S Forrest G Stirling R Norman C Black S Mabon
Scottish Hydro Electric Div 1 East
31-1-09
Duns 0 Hawick Linden 31
Linden consolidated their lead at top of Div 1 East with solid victory over a stuffy Duns side on a very wet and soft pitch on Saturday. Playing against a very strong and cold wind first half, Linden took a while to break the Duns defence down. With the Linden pack in total control of scrum and the Smith brother`s securing good quality ball in the line outs. It was only a matter of time before Linden took the lead, 20 minutes in fact, from a break blindside, from the base of scrum by No8 Craig Smith, taken on by the pack, whipped out to stand off Barry Sutherland who jinked his way through a bewidered defence to score. A powerfull Linden scrum saw the Duns pack in disarray scrum half Stuart Campbell nipped in to pick up releasing B Sutherland and Graeme Anderson to send in Steven Bouglas in at corner. After Duns had worked their way downfield ,loose ball was picked up by prop Gary Wardle in own 22 who powered his way to Duns line only to be brought down short of line with the ever present Greg Bouglas shadowing him all the way picking up loose ball and scooting in at posts, B Sutherland converted. Turning round 17-0 up Linden should really have went further ahead soon after Darrel Gray hacked ball over dead ball line when it seem easier to touch down. A high up and under had panic all over it as the Duns defence went missing Greg Cunnigham was up to feed G Wardle then B Sutherland who cut in from touch to touch down at posts,converting own score. Once again Linden pack had Duns pack in all sorts of difficultys, B Sutherland released S Bouglas on a 50metre dash down wing to score in corner, with B Sutherland landing a magnificent conversion from touch line. A fine victory with bonus point for Linden against a side who never lay down also as Linden kept a clean sheet.For Linden the Bouglas brothers ran well on the wings, Darrel Gray had a fine second half after replacing an injured Gavin Stirling.In the forwards Craig Smith was missed when had to retire with shoulder injury, Greg Cunningham put in a power of work and young Ross Norman maybe the smallest on the field but certainly has a big heart and once again Captain Lee Stewart who led by example.
Team G Stirling S Bouglas G Anderson B Wear G Bouglas B Sutherland S Campbell G Wardle L Stewart R Norman B Keown W Davies G Cunningham R Smith C Smith D Gray J Scott C Black S Forrest J Tait
Scottish Hydro Electric Div 1 East
17-1-09
Penicuik 3 Hawick Linden 24
As this was Lindens first game for 4weeks they could have been excused for being a bit rusty, but it was the complete reverse. A very competent and mature performance on a soft and muddy pitch in places,with a howling gale coming accross it. From the kick off it was obvious Penicuik with big forwards were going to be quite happy to slog it out up front but they came up against a very determind Linden pack who not only shunted them back in the scrum at times, allowing hooker Lee Stewart to take a couple of strikes against the head.With play pretty equal early on, though it could have been different scrum half Stuart Campbell made a scintilating dash through the opposition only for the pass to be dropped by Greg Cunningham going over the line though to be fair i don`t think he was expecting a pass, Prop Gary Wardle running wild on the wing, and Greg Bouglas looked home and dry only to be pulled down with a desperate tackle.With half time looming and Linden gradually geting on top, good ball from the forwards saw half backs Stuart Campbell & Barry Sutherland send Graeme Anderson on a 40 metre mazy run through a bewildered defence to touch down at posts, B Sutherland converted. After the change round Linden though playing down the slight slope, found the gale now changing slightly into their faces. Penicuik took advantage with the Penicuik stand off poping over a smart drop goal. Linden though giving away an enormous amount of penalty`s which was keeping Penicuik in the game were wearing down the opposition,B Sutherland missed a couple a long range penaltys,a change of tactics,with the second row of Wattie Davies & Barrie Keown doing the hard graft, forwards worked their way down the touchline and from the resultant ruck Lee Stewart powered over to touch down,B Sutherland converted. With the forwards now rampant, Rory Smith picked and drove B Sutherland who appeared from knowhere to take the pass and score. With the clock running down Linden smelled a bonus point and like all good teams went for the jugular. Brian Wear who had moved to stand off powered his way through a stricken defence.From the scrum that followed No8 Craig Smith picked went for the line and up popped winger Stephen Bouglas to take pass and touch down right on the final whistle. A great result for Linden, a real team performance, the bonus point opens up the gap even more from the chasing pack
Team G Stirling S Bouglas G Anderson B Wear G Bougals B Sutherland S Campbell G Wardle L Stewart R Norman B Keown W Davies G Cunningham R Smith C Smith D Gray J Scott S Harkness S Forrest C Black
Scottish Hydro Electric Div1 East
13-12-08
Hawick Linden 33 North Berwick 12
This was a cracker of a game,everything that is best in rugby,two teams prepared to run the ball,seven great trys. All of this played on a soft wet pitch with rain falling throughout. For the first 20 minutes Linden hammered the North Berwick line but were unable to breach, some great defending albeit sometimes desperate. A breakout by North Berwick, desperate defending on Linden line ,a yellow card against Linden ,ball worked right then left as the North Berwick center dived over for converted try.This did not ruffle the Linden back on attack good work from No8 Craig Smith taken on by Brian Wear who sent Neil Renwick in at posts, Barry Sutherland converted. The next try a cracker, high up and under by North Berwick fielded in own 22 by B Sutherland out to N Renwick who worked his way through, a by this time disorganised defence out to winger Greg Bouglas who absolutly scorched his way to line,B Sutherland converting to make half time score 14-7 to Linden. There was to be no let up in Linden`s intentions second half ,running rugby,lovely break by B Wear up left touch line, inside to B Sutherland,inside again to Wattie Davies who absolutly steamed up pitch to score.Interpassing and hard grafting by forwards took play to North Berwick line ,lovely dart by scrum half Stuart Campbell ,bonus point and game almost over, B Sutherland converted.There was to be no let up from Linden ,back on attack North Berwick No8 caught in possesion,robbed of the ball interpassing by B Wear and S Campbell out to Greg Bouglas who`s pace all had bothered the North Berwick defence all game as he zipped in to score ,N Renwick converted. With time ruunnning North Berwick through everything at attack and were rewarded with a well worked try by the backs in front of posts ,which the goal kicker somehow managed to miss. A great team display by Linden running the ball almost at will, sometimes a wee bit dangerous from own line especially in the conditions. It would be unfair to single any players out as this was a superb team effort.
Team D Gray G Stirling N Renwick B Wear G Bouglas B Sutherland S Campbell R Norman H Scammell B Law B Keown W Davies G Cunningham R Smith C Smith S Harkness S Forrest G Colville B Irvine C Black
Scottish Hydro Electric Cup 2nd Round
Hawick Linden 5 Hawick Harlequins 20
22-11-08
This was Linden`s poorest display of the season, as they never really got going throughout the whole game. The 12.15 pm kick-off didn`t help, but it was the same for the Quins !! Linden allowed the Quins to dictate the pace of game, also some poor tactical kicking, allied to some mystifying decisions from a referee, who looked completely out of his depth, awarding what seemed like a record number of penalty`s - mainly against Linden !!!
Linden started out brightly enough when Greg Bouglas was pulled down short of the Quins line after a nice Linden backs move. This was closely followed by a Barry Sutherland penalty attemp, which came back off the posts. The Quins were never in it for the first part of the game, however mid-way through the first half it all started to go wrong for the Linden. Quins took lead with a converted try after what looked like a clever cross field kick took a wicked bounce, catching out the Linden defence. This was followed by a Quins penalty just on half time and a further try early in the seond half. Nothing seemed to be going right for Linden, however, with time ticking away No. 8 Craig Smith scorched through the Quins defence from half way to touchdown. With the game effectively over, the Quins sneaked a third try right on the final whistle. A game Linden will definetely want to forget and I'm sure they will, as it's back to League business next week with a home game against Dunbar - at the more realistic kick-off time of 2.00pm.
Team: D Gray C Black G Colville B Wear G Bouglas B Sutherland S Campbell G Wardle S Harkness B Law B Keown R Smith G Cunningham W Davies C Smith J Scott S Forrest K Mabon J Tait
Friendly
14-11-08
Selkirk 2nds 14, Hawick Linden 10
The Linden lost their 100% record for the season to Selkirk 2nds in a hard fought game under the lights at Philiphaugh on Friday night. The home side started with a bang, opening the scoring after only two minutes. Line-out ball was released to the backs and Edinburgh pro Matt Dey made the break to scythe through a gap and touchdown at the posts allowing an easy conversion. The Linden responded after quarter of an hour. Graeme Anderson hit-up in the centre and the recycled ball was switched blind. From the resulting ruck, scrum-half Greig Cottrell felt the gap and sneaked through for the try. Barry Sutherland’s conversion tied the scores.
The Souters hit back almost straight away. Untidy ball at the back of a Linden scrum in their own 22 was pounced on by Fraser Jack who rolled over for Selkirk’s second try with the conversion putting the home side 14-7 ahead. Shortly after referee Ian Fox suffered a hamstring injury. Fortunately Iain Rodgerson was in the crowd and after a quick change of clothing, apart from retaining his fetching ankle socks, play was again underway.
There was no further scoring in the first half and a Linden penalty attempt right at the start of the second rebounded from the upright. Sutherland then kicked a penalty awarded for offside to reduce the gap to four points. The Linden immediately brought on Mark McCall for Brian Wear and Keith Mabon for Steven Harkness. Play was becoming rather stop-start but as time wore on the visitors began to play most of the game in the Selkirk half. A number of kickable penalties were turned down in an attempt to go for the match winning score but the Linden just couldn’t find a way through.
Against a physical, well-drilled Selkirk side this was a useful match for the Linden as a few fringe players were given a run out although having four middle rows injured or unavailable did not help up front. However, Watt Davies and Rory Smith grafted hard in the second row whilst Craig Smith won a glut of line-out ball. Steven Forrest also put in a good shift in his first start of the season. Greig Cottrell was a more than useful deputy for the injured Stuart Campbell as he showed his class in often disrupting the Selkirk scrum ball and Mark McCall displayed some nice touches in his first outing of the season.
Team: D Gray, L Robson, G Anderson, B Wear, G Bouglas, B Sutherland, G Cottrell; G Wardle, L Stewart (captain), S Harkness, W Davies, R Smith, S Forrest, G Cunningham, C Smith; Subs: M McCall (for Wear), K Mabon (for Harkness), G Stirling (unused), J Tait (unused)
Scottish Hydro Electric Cup 1st round
8-11-08
Hawick Linden 63 Earlston 0
Linden comprehensively defeated East Div 2 leaders Earlston on Saturday at Wilton Lodge Park showing that there is a big gulf between the top of East Div 1 and East Div 2.
On a soft pitch and with muddy ball, Linden served up some lovely running rugby which completely blew Earlston away, especially first half, half time positional changes, an erratic ref who saw all Linden`s off sides but never Earlston`s and deteriorating pitch slowed down traffic to Earlston`s line second half. Early Earlston pressure in fact their only pressure first half soon dissipated as the flood gates opened, 40minutes later they were 46 points down in fact it would have been more but for some dreadful goal kicking. From own half burst by Captain Lee Stewart taken on by Brian Wear out to Graeme Anderson who sent a lovely pass to Darrel Gray for first try. After a searing break by scrum half Stuart Campbell,taken on by Craig Black with Steven Bouglas up wing for to cross kick and C Black touching down. S Bouglas then broke from own half for solo effort and try followed almost from kick off with second try after fine work by flanker Rory Smith. Play was all one way now as Linden ran the ball on every occasion, nice break by stand off Brian Wear,who`s opposite number never saw him as he scooted in at posts. A great forwards and backs move saw S Bouglas pick up his hat trick of try`s, good inter play by S Bouglas, Greg Cunningham, B Wear saw centre C Black shoot through a gap in defence to pick his 2nd try. After a hack and chase by S Bouglas, Barrie Keown`s perfect pass to Greg Bouglas to score in corner. Graeme Anderson picked up 3 conversions. G Anderson was next on scoring sheet as broke a desperate covering tackle to shoot through and score ,converting same.Break by Jamie Scott out to D Gray and G Bouglas had an easy run to corner and his second try.A rumble up by forwards who took D Gray over line for his second try. With the pitch really deteriorating and even more erratic reffereing, an early whistle and the game was over. A superb display by Linden first half ,if you want to watch running rugby by forwards and backs , Linden is the team to watch at the moment. This victory will see Linden take on local rivals Quins in the second round in a fortnight`s time at the Volunteer Park which will also be reunion day for Linden ex players.
Team D Gray S Bouglas C Black G Anderson G Bouglas B Wear S Campbell G Wardle L Stewart S Harkness J Scott B Keown G Cunningham W Davies C Smith L Robson G Colville R Smith K Mabon
Scottish Hydro Electric Div 1 East
1-11-08
Hawick Linden 37 Broughton 7
Linden rounded off the first half of their League campaign with an very good win over a stuffy Broughton side on sat,. From the kick off some brief Broughton pressure before Linden took the lead with an Barry Sutherland penalty. Broughton replied with an converted try after some rather weak tackling midfield allowed a centre to plough through the Linden defence.This stung Linden into life and only some rather weak finishing kept the Broughton line intacked. Mid way through half a lovely breack by No8 Craig Smith saw the passed ball knocked out of Greig Bouglas`s hands by his opposite number ,with the forwards in full cry,Greg Cunningham fed Gary Wardle who forced his way over the line. An unfortunate clash of heads occured to an Broughton prop just on half time,play was held up for 20minutes ,ambulance being called but the player in question eventually got to feet and was taken away in ambulance. After the turn around Linden `s passes began to stick and the crowd were served some fine fare as Linden turned on the style ,running the ball at every oppportunity.Almost from kick off B Sutherland sliced through a bemused defence (some said he did it quicker than his dad, others maninly his dad said the opposite) after a fine run by Darrell Gray and good work by forwards. Following this B Sutherland stoking over a penalty from in front of posts.Linden were now in full control and it was only a matter of time before more try`s followed. Darrell Gray who was in fine form at full back burst through defence for Brian Wear to make clever break in at posts, B Sutherland converted. Try of the game B Wear from own line to fellow centre Graeme Anderson with Wattie Daveis taken ball on, out to Craig Smith on half way line who outpaced an despairing defence to touch down at posts, B Sutherland converted. A chip kick by B Sutherland was picked up by G Anderson a long pass to Greig Bouglas who simply flew in to score his first Linden try, B Sutheland converted. Great entertainment from Linden but they allowed to many dropped passes especially in the first half to occur.Linden best in backs D Gray, S Campbell and G Anderson . In forwards C Smith took great ball at line out Greg Cunningham was every where as usual with B Law and W Davies grafting away.
Team D Gray S Bouglas B Wear G Anderson G Bouglas B Sutherland S Campbell G Wardle L Stewart S Linton J Scott B Law G Cunningham W Davies C Smith S Forrest S Harkness C Black S Levell J Tait
Scottish Hydro Electric Div 1 East
25-10-08
Hawick Linden 16 Portobello 5
On a really horrible day for rugby, a howling gale and horizontal rain and a soft pitch, which stood up remarkablely well to the onslaught. Linden came out on top, in their top of the table clash with Portobello. Both teams are to be commended for their efforts, this was not just a slog in the mud some pretty good rugby was played at times. Linden got of to a fine start, a couple of darting runs by stand off Barry Sutherland set up the forwards who drove forward, Jamie Scott emerging with ball to dive over and score. B Sutherland converted. With both teams on top of their game in the tackling stakes, pressure by Linden saw Portobello infringe with B Sutherland converting penalty from in front of posts. With chances hard to come by No 8 Craig Smith opened up the defence but Portobello defence were back to save the day.
Graeme Anderson with great run from own half, alas no one up to support what looked a like a cartain try. Both teams took respite in changing rooms at half time with Linden emerging with a change of jersey`s.Linden soon took control of game as they pinned Portobello back in own half . Two penalty`s by B Sutherland gave Linden a 15point margin. Back came Portobello and a nice handling move along the line saw them touch down for a try. As conditions worsened it became mainly a forward battle. Linden hanging on till final whistle, not much enjoyment at end except for the ref, who played 5minutes of extra time. A great result for Linden this put them 14points clear of nearest challengers. Supreb display by forwards against a big heavy team, well controlled by B Sutherland at stand off , Darrell Gray at fullback and to the Bouglas brothers who stood out on the wings, at times it must have been hell.
Team D Gray S Bouglas B Wear G Anderson G Bouglas B Sutherland S Campbell G Wardle L Stewart B Law J Scott W Davies G Cunningham R Smith C Smith S Forrest S Harknes D Beattie C Black J Tait
Scottish Hydro Electric Div 1 East
18-10-08
Meggetland 16 Hawick Linden 35
Linden got off to a great start almost from the kick off. Playing into a strong head wind, a superb storming run from No. 8 Craig Smith up the centre of the field, with ball quickly recycled by forwards, a chip kick by Brian Wear and Barry Sutherland dribbled over to score. Meggetland replied with a penalty. Barrie Keown then put in a great run, moved the ball out to B. Sutherland, who chipped through for Brian Wear to latch on to and score - B. Sutherland converted. A classic break up the middle by Graeme Anderson saw Gavin Stirling pulled down short illegally, B Sutherland stepped up and put over resultant penalty. Meggetland replied quickly with two penalty`s. At this point Linden became frustrated as the ref continually penalised them, it looked like a classic case of the ref watching one team only !! However, midway through second half, while hanging on to a slender 6 point lead, B. Sutherland settled things down with a smartly taken drop goal, after centre`s G Anderson and B Wear had opened up a hole in Meggetland`s defence. B Sutherland also converted one of the few second half penalty`s which Linden were awarded. From the resultant kick off B Keown charged through the Meggetland defence and with the ball then taken on by Wattie Davies in was moved back into C Smith and Darrel Gray and then back to B Keown, who stormed up the touch line and go under posts to touch down. This was quickly followed by a great run by Darrel Gray who from own line set up Steven Forrest, who passed to the ever present Jamie Scott to touch down - B Sutherland converted both. Meggetland finished on the final whistle with a converted try after some slack play by Linden on their own line.
Not Linden`s best victory, but it was still a 5 pointer. For linden, G Anderson, B Wear and D Gray were the pick of the backs. In the forwards C Smith, B Keown and G Wardle stood out.
Team G Stirling C Black G Anderson B Wear D Gray B Sutherland S Campbell G Wardle L Stewart B Law J Scott B Keown W Davies R Smith C Smith S Forrest S Harkness G Cunningham S Beattie G Bouglas
Scottish Hydro Electric Div 1 East
11-10-08
Hawick Linden 44 Duns 7
Looking at the half time score,one would have thought a close game. It was the exact opposite, apart from the short time,just before half time. Duns were on the Linden line and awarded a penalty try for Linden infringing 3 times on the trot, the rest of the game was at Duns end. In an entertaining first half only poor finishing by Linden saved the Duns line as Linden`s forwards who were in complete charge sending back repeatedly choice ball to the backs, who somehow could not controll their final passes.Linden`s first half points came through Greg Cunningham a veritable human dynamo taking play to Duns line, good work by forwards out to backs but their was Barrie Keown who sent a looped pass to Gary Wardle who powered in at posts, Barry Sutherland converted and then landed a penalty soon after. A stearn team talk at half time by the coaching staff ,the two Brian`s Wear and Nichol did the trick . As Linden sunk Duns out of sight from the kick off, forwards winning the ball and the half backs sending in Neil Renwick to touch down. from the resultant kick off, clearance kick by Duns picked up by fullback Gavin Stirling who darted through defence with chip kick and pick up to send Steven Bouglas in at posts, B Sutherland converting both.scrum half Stuart Campbell touched down after G Cunningham and N Renwick combined well.S Bouglas raced up touch line to score,good inter passing from Craig Smith and Steven Harkness saw Darrel Gray race in at corner,Graeme Anderson raced in at corner after good brenge by G Wardle, with one conversion from B Sutherland. An excellent second half from Linden backs after the problems first half ,some super handling,great try`s but credit must go to the forwards who absolutly overwhelmed their opposite numbers,with the back row of the Smith brothers,Craig,Rory and G Cunningham full of running, David Beattie taking good ball at line out and rollocking runs from B Keown ,Wattie Davies and Gary Wardle ,a prop who runs about like a back row forward.Well led by captain Lee Stewart,not fogetting prop Bruce Law and subs Jamie Scott, S Harkness and Steven Forrest.
Team G Stirling S Bouglas N Renwick G Anderson D Gray B Sutherland S Campbell G Wardle L Stewart B Law D Beattie B Keown G Cunninham R Smith C Smith S Harkness S Forrest W Davies J Scott B Wear
A comprehensive victory for Linden without really getting into top gear, Dalkeith`s short narrow pitch did not suit Linden`s stile of play, who like to play a running game. The pitch suited Dalkeith`s overweight players who continually tried to batter their way through the middle of the field, only to be halted with a resolute mid field.
After what looked like two tries being overuled, the second by a dodgy home touch judge. Linden got on the score sheet centre Gavin Stirling carved his way through several rather leaden footed defenders to touch down, Barry Sutherland converted. B Sutherland extended lead with a penalty. Then some quick thinking from scrum half Stuart Campbell as he scooted in from a penalty award on the Dalkeith line. B Sutherland kicked his second penalty just on half time to give Linden an 18point lead.After an edgy start to second half Linden were soon in full flow. Good line out ball saw the ball along line to the right wing swung back along backs for second row Jamie Scott to sell outragous dummy as he sailed in to score.B Sutherland converting. From kick off a lovely break up wing by Graeme Anderson,inside to Craig Black who sent Darrel Gray racing in between posts, B Sutherland converted. G Anderson then scored after good work by the forwards ,especially Craig Smith, B Sutherland converting.After almost continual pressure Steven Bouglas was rewarded as he dived through a pile of bodies to score in corner.
A late rally saw Dalkeith pressure Linden line,but disaster struck as one of their players sustained a serious ankle injury, the ref, blowing for full time with close on 10 mins still to play.For Linden G Stirling in new position of centre,fellow centre G Anderson and S Bouglas stood out. In the forwards B Law L Stewart C Smith were the pick.
Team D Gray S Bouglas G Stirling G Anderson C Black B Sutherland S Campbell S Levell L Stewart B Law D Beattie J Scott G Cunningham R Smith C Smith S Harkness M Howe J Tait S Forrest B Wear
The top of the table clash at the Volunteer Park on Saturday saw the Linden end Penicuik’s 100% record in comprehensive fashion scoring eight tries in the process. The home side got off to a great start scoring as early as the fourth minute, Greg Cunningham passing inside to Gary Wardle before Keith Hedley broke a tackle to touchdown with Barry Sutherland converting. Penicuik replied with a penalty for offside. A loose clearance kick was fielded by Gavin Stirling who fed inside to Barrie Keown whose long pass released Stuart Campbell and the scrum-half stretched his legs to reach the line. The visitors again hit back, a break down the middle was moved through the hands for a try in the corner. From a scrum just inside the Penicuik half, Campbell broke blind and kicked ahead, Steven Bouglas picked up the loose ball, passed to Cunningham who linked inside to Gary Wardle for a great score. Sutherland’s conversion saw the Linden lead 19-8 at the break.
Just like they did in the first half, the ‘Dean started the second with a quick score. Wardle took a short ball and was driven on by his fellow forwards almost to the line. Campbell picked up and sneaked round the side of the ruck to the posts for Sutherland to add the extras. Jamie Scott then intercepted inside his own half and the ball was moved along the line to Hedley who kicked ahead and won the race to the line for another great score. The reliable Sutherland slotted the kick to increase the lead to 33-8. At this point the Penicuik touch judge was sent off for bringing a forward pass or two to the attention of the referee, politely it must be said. The programme listed the touch judge as Tom Tait but, unless Tom has lost three foot in height, gained four stones in weight and suffered a severe case of Alopecia, one feels it may have been someone else. The red card was not his only punishment as he then had to encounter the jovial banter of the Linden crowd.
On 60 minutes a quick tap penalty saw Graeme Anderson dive over and then, from a ruck on the line, Brian Wear sneaked over. Near the end a Penicuik clearance kick was charged down and Cunningham beat the diving David Beattie to the touchdown. Sutherland’s conversion completed the scoring. A superb win for the Linden who move five points clear at the top of the table. Campbell and Bouglas were in great form in the backs with Keown and Stewart working hard up front.
Team: G Stirling, S Bouglas, B Wear, G Anderson, K Hedley, B Sutherland, S Campbell; G Wardle, L Stewart (captain), B Law, D Beattie, B Keown, R Smith, G Cunningham, C Smith; Subs: S Harkness, R Norman, S Forrest, J Scott, K Murray
Linden secured a second bonus point away win of the season at North Berwick on Saturday to maintain their 100% record in East League Division One. Things didn’t start well for the Linden with a missed Barry Sutherland drop goal bizarrely being brought back for a scrum where the kick was taken. From the resulting scrum the home team recycled on half way and crossed for a well worked try out wide. Sutherland put the Royal Blues on the scoreboard with a penalty and then, after the ball was moved along the line, Darrel Gray kicked on and Craig Smith burst forward allowing Gary Wardle to go over at the posts, Sutherland converting.
Five minutes before the break Sutherland slotted his second penalty following a ruck infringement. When David Beattie stole a home line out, Brian Wear made a half break and his off-load to Graeme Anderson put his fellow centre over. Sutherland’s conversion increased the Linden’s lead to 20-5 at half-time.
North Berwick came roaring back at the start of the second half firstly crossing in the corner and then kicking a penalty for offside to reduce the Linden lead to 20-13. Sutherland struck back immediately with a penalty for crossing and then Craig Smith looked certain to score but lost the ball as he dived for the line. The visitors didn’t leave the home 22 empty handed as Sutherland kicked his third penalty after Anderson was tripped by the full-back who was lucky to stay on the field as the referee appeared to give up looking for his yellow card.
As the game entered the last 10 minutes a try in the right hand corner brought the score back to 26-18 and the home team sniffed a chance of recovery. However a memorable last five minutes for the visitors resulted in two tries and a prized bonus point. Sutherland’s kick into the 22 bounced kindly for Gray to touchdown. Steven Forrest drove on well and the recycled ball allowed Brian Wear to make a trademark break to score at the posts. Sutherland’s conversion completed the scoring for a 38-18 Linden victory.
The home team contributed hugely to an entertaining contest, moving the ball well and running at pace. The whole Linden side put in a great shift and were well served up front yet again by Craig Smith. Brother Rory was also to the fore after a short break on the touchline with Gary Wardle also showing up well in his first League appearance of the season. Star man was undoubtedly full-back Gavin Stirling who put in several memorable try saving tackles that, had any of them been missed, could have seen the game transformed.
Team: G Stirling, S Bouglas, B Wear (captain), G Anderson, D Gray, B Sutherland, S Campbell; G Wardle, J Tait, S Harkness, D Beattie, W Davies, R Smith, G Cunningham, C Smith; Subs: S Hinton, S Forrest, P Robson, L Stewart, J Scott
In the local derby between Linden and Quins, what looked a close result at the end was quite the opposite, appart from a C Ritson penalty kick which hit the outside post in the opening minutes. Quins where never in the game first half as Linden piled on the pressure and the visitors creaking and giving away kickable penaltys at regular intervals. The big boot of Gavin Douglas came to rescue repeatedly for the Quins. Linden forwards had their opposite numbers under pressure. A high tackle after 10minutes saw Barry Sutherland kick his first penalty followed by two more . A yellow card for a Quins player for talking back, some tremendous brenges by Barrie Keown,couple of hooks against the head by Linden`s Lee Stewart and a fourth penalty by B Sutherland saw Linden change round 12 points up. As Quins continued to infringe under pressure B Sutherland banged over his fourth penalty. Suddenly mid way through second half Quins forwards began to win some ball, and Linden giving away penalty`s at a remarkable rate, their backs looked dangerous, taking play to the Linden line a quick penalty and R Mac Pherson dived in at posts for a converted try. Back up the other end B Sutherland banged over a long range drop goal. Back to Linden`s line and a complete mix up at the base of the scrum as Linden`s scrum half was impeded saw Quin`s back row forward pick up and dive over for a converted try.Linden back on the attack another yellow card this time against Linden for talking back after they had been awarded a penalty in front of posts. Obviously the ref David Crudge, who had handled match superbly but also strictly, didn`t like players talking to him in the game.After Quins cleared line with penalty kick .With Linden back on attack and injury time approaching B Sutherland kick his sixth penalty.For Linden in the backs B Sutherland controlled the match superbly at times, cousin Gavin Stirling was a rock at fullback ,Brian Wear and Steven Bouglas were pick of the backs.In the forwards David Beattie, Craig Smith ruled the lineouts , Wattie Davis, Rory Smith and Greg Cunningham were in top form in the back row.
Team G Stirling S Bouglas B Wear G Anderson D Gray B Sutherland S Campbell S Levell L Stewart B Law D Beattie B Keown G Cunningham R Smith C Smith M Howe W Davies J Scott S Harkness L Robson
While the rest of southern Scotland suffered stormy wet weather, at Dunbar it was gale force winds with a very fine drizzle.Playing into wind first half Linden were soon 7points down to a fine score by Dunbar, when their stand off skipped through a bemused defence. With Linden attacking a lost ball allowed the Dunbar stand off to hoof it down field. A clean catch from Lee Robson, beat his opposite number on the outside, inside to Barry Sutherland who made ground up touchline, then inside to the supporting Stuart Campbell who scampered in to touch down, with B Sutherland, converting a super score and a real jolt to Dunbar`s confidence. Dunbar then took lead with a long range penalty made easy with wind.A real gutsy performance by Linden forwards and sensible play by the backs to keep Dunbar at bay against the wind. Playing with the wind, Linden soon took the lead within 5 minutes with two B Sutherland drop goals.From almost the kick off L Robson intercepted and raced in from 70metres, B Sutherland converting.With Linden`s forwards in command mistakes came from the Dunbar forwards and B Sutherland kicked two penalty`s in quick succesion to take game away from Dunbar, the race against time for a bonus point was on. Long raking kick downfield by B Sutherland to corner saw the Dunbar lineout in a complete shambles, John Tait emerging from it to touch down. With time running out fast, back on attack when it looked easier from the touch line for BSutherland to pass, but a chip kick saw Craig Black burst onto the scene and touch down for a bonus point. A great effort for Linden to come away with win plus bonus point in the conditions.In the forwards Scott Levell , David Beattie, Rory Scott and captain Lee Stewart where immense, With Kiwi Mike Howe coming off the bench, making his debut for Linden and showing his expierience.In the backs a controlled tactical display from B Sutherland,with S Campbell,L Robson and Steven Bouglas in good form.
