match report - IRFC v Portobello - SAT 29 AUG 09
Score: Inverleith 7 Portobello “more”
On a typically blustery day at Arboretum Inverleith continued their pre-season preparation against a strong Portobello side.
There was a new look line up and it was good to see Roger returning to the wing berth and Diarmid adding his considerable bulk to the pack. Other new faces included Chris Clitheroe in the blind side flanker role – who put in a tremendous shift.
The game began with Inverleith playing up the hill and into the wind and they struggled to cope both with the conditions and the strong mauling game adopted by Portobello. Despite some heroic defending Inverleith turned round at half time 4 tries adrift.
The second half however was a different story with Inverleith enjoying more time on the ball and putting together some enterprising attacking play. With the line out working well (especially at two with Sholto in good form) and uncontested scrums good possession was ensured and at times put to good use through the back division. Al Rhind especially, put in a good shift with some strong running.
The hard graft finally paid off with Chris Clitheroe touching down for a well deserved try. Despite going down two tries to one in the second half Inverleith showed that the work on the training paddock was paying off and finished the match strongly.
All in all it was a good workout for the guys and another step forward in the preparations for league business starting next week.
Next week sees the First XV take on old adversaries Gala YM at Arboretum with a 3pm kick off. Brendan’s “all stars” Second XV will also be taking their league bow against Watsonians 4s at Myreside, kick off at 3pm.
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