Rugby girls battle on in cup tourney
U16s overcome first hurdle at St Andrews
The Under-16 Girls were the only unit from East Kilbride Rugby Club to find somewhere to play over the weekend, grateful for the outstanding playing fields at St Andrews University.
With all senior sides sidelined by the weather, the girls took centre stage on Saturday – and they didn’t disappoint.
Along with Dumfries and Lismore, EK gathered to contest the first qualifying round of the Scottish Cup in a round-robin tournament. Edinburgh side Lismore were first up and EK edged it by three tries to two with scores from Kirsty Ritchie (2) and Olivia Meiklejohn.
The lady-farmers of Dumfries were put away by a similar score, Ritchie, Shannon McEvoy and Summer Smith crossing.
EK now travel to Aberdeen in three weeks time to contest the next stage of a qualifying process aimed at balancing the knockout nature of cup rugby with a desire to get girls around the country much needed game time.
• Meanwhile, EK’s first XV had
their derby with Cambuslang called off due to a waterlogged pitch at Coats Park.
Allan Steel’s side are playing catch-up in West Division One and this latest postponement will prolong their season for at least another week.
This Saturday they are due to host Annan at Torrance House, knowing only a win will do to keep their title hopes alive.
East Kilbride are currently sixth in the table and will need to win all of their matches, ensuring they pick up some bonus points along the way, to overcome the leading pack, which includes Stewartry, Kilmarnock and Allan Glens.
Kick-off on Saturday is scheduled for 2pm.
EK’s second XV were also disrupted by the weather as their match against Marr was postponed.