‘Gutsy’ Buddies’ revenge mission falls flat

side for high tackling.

The consistent high tackling was not malicious, but the referee eventually lost patience issuing a yellow card.

Paisley, unfortunately, were unable to capitalise as the half-time whistle blew with the score 21-3.

The second half began with a flurry of cards, reducing Oban to 13 men, but Neil Ritchie picked up a yellow for Paisley after only three minutes on the field.

With Oban soon back to 14, they continued with their high paced running game and extended their lead before running in five second half tries for a well deserved win.

Paisley, however, did not drop their heads and crossed with little over ten minutes remaining, taking advantage of some sloppy Oban defence.

The Renfrewshire side were denied a further two try scoring opportunities with the ball crossing the Oban whitewash, only for the referee to wave play on and the hosts to clear their lines accurately.

It got worse for Paisley as Michael Somerville left the play with damaged ribs and he could now be out for some time.

Based on this performance, Oban are firm favourites to win the league and their expansive style of play has to be admired.

A club spokesman added: “The bus journey home was long, but enjoyable as Nelly nearly redeemed himself by providing some excellent homemade rhubarb gin and vodka, which was eagerly consumed by the parched first XV squad.

“Next up, we welcome Wigtownshire Rugby Football Club on Saturday to The Anchor for a 3pm kick off.

“Last season we beat them twice, with both encounters being well contested and entertaining.

“We need a big Anchor support to help us get back to winning ways.”

The second XV are also in action as they take on Strathendrick RFC in the first league game of the season. Kick-off for this fixture is still to be confirmed, but keep an eye on the club’s social media pages.