Hawick crowned league champions after Gala lose
WINDY CONDITIONS MET THE PLAYERS DOWN AT NETHERDALE
Gala ........................................... 17 Kelso.......................................... 28
GALA suffered the taste of Border League defeat to Kelso on Friday – handing the title to Hawick.
Wicked, blustery conditions met the players as they headed out to the pitch at Netherdale.
And the visitors, playing the first half with the wind at their backs, raced into a 14-0 lead.
But the home fans had something to cheer before the half-time
whistle was blown when Tim McKavanagh touched down over the whitewash for a try. The conversion attempt was missed.
Unfortunately for Gala, Kelso were the first side on the scoreboard in the second half with a converted try.
The hosts stuck at their task, however, and struck through Liam Scott to bring the score to 10-21.
A Kyle Scott try, which was converted by Ethan Wilson, kept the Maroons in the contest but they ultimately succumbed to their Premiership opponents.
Initially named among the re
placements for or the Border r
League clash,
John Turnbull came on to make his
100th appearance in Gala a colours.
A Gala spokesesperson said: “A huge congratularatulations to Gala ala RFC player John Turnbull who came off the bench today to make his 100th appearance for the Maroons.
“John has been with Gala since mini mi rugby, and an with the senior se side since s 2017.” Hawick are four fo points clear cl at the top to of the table after winning all five of their games. Melrose, Melro who have played six times, have 16 points in second s place. Gala are in fourth after winning three and losing two of their five outings.