Marr will come back stronger
Quinn’s vow after relegation pain
Kevin Quinn has pledged that Marr Rugby will learn lessons from the pain of relegation from the BT Premiership.
The Fullarton men went out on a high with a bonus- point win against Stirling, but it wasn’t enough after Hawick beat Melrose 38- 3 to secure safety and send Glasgow Hawks into a play- off.
Marr will now return to BT National League One next season but president Quinn vows the club will be stronger.
He said: “Understandably there were mixed emotions but, when all is said and done, Marr’s experience during the season will stand the players in good stead as they continue to ready themselves to play at the highest possible levels.
“Th e e x p e r i e n c e a n d opportunities will live with all of the players involved during the campaign. Marr has made a positive mark on Scottish club rugby and people know the passion, professionalism, commitment and enjoyment that is central to rugby coming out of Fullarton.
“Marr Rugby players experience and enjoy participating in high- performance rugby in a community based club, with good- quality coaching helping their development.
“This season, Marr’s players and supporters have benefited from the support provided by the professional draft players attached to Glasgow Warriors.
“Jean- Charles Fidinde, Oli Kebble, James Malcolm, Lelia Masaga, Greg Peterson and Samuela Vunisa have all pulled on a purple and gold strip and each has added something that will help us as we move forward.
“Who would ever have imagined they’d be playing alongside an All Black or other International capped player or watching this calibre playing for Marr.
“Of the group of Warriors, Greg Peterson rates special mention. His attitude and commitment to help Marr has been outstanding and exemplary in what Glasgow Warriors is trying to achieve in building relationships with community clubs.
“He is a fine ambassador for Warriors and a consummate professional.”
A seesaw final match was tied 17- 17 going into the final 10 minutes. Stirling potted a fifthminute penalty but for the rest of the quarter soaked up repeated pressure before Ross Miller touched down off a rolling maul.
Ten minutes later, Greg Jackson finished off a breenging burst by Peterson who perfectly offloaded as he was tackled. Rory McGee converted for a nine- point lead before Stirling replied with a converted try before the break.
Marr opened the second- half with a try in the corner from Conor Bickerstaff but Stirling levelled with a converted try by Craig Robertson.
As play progressed to the try line, Stirling continued to concede penalties and, sensing blood, Marr opted to play off a scrummage platform. Eventually referee Steven Turnbull awarded Marr with a deserved penalty try.
McGee then had the final say with a penalty.
Marr man of match: Angus Johnston. Tries: Ross Miller, Greg Jackson, Conor Bickerstaff and penalty try. Two conversions and penalty: Rory McGee.
Marr 2nd XV beat GHA 65- 5 in the second plays third placed match against GHA in BT Reserve National League Two.
Saturday’s fixtures ( 3pm): 2s Boroughmuir ( away); 3s v Lenzie 2s ( away).