NO WAY THROUGH
Dalziel show Buddies why they are battling at top of the table
BEN RAMAGE
Injury-hit Paisley Rugby Club’s tough start to the season continued after suffering a heavy loss to Dalziel.
When the fixtures were published in the summer the club knew they were in for a rough ride.
And so it has proved as they have now played and lost against the top three teams in the league away from home – Oban, Strathaven and Dalziel.
Paisley went into the Dalziel fixture missing several key players and with others having to play out of position it was always going to be a big ask.
As the game progressed Paisley also lost several other players to injury resulting in the club’s bench being emptied far earlier than planned.
Despite heavy rain during the week the pitch was like a bowling green which provided an ideal opportunity for some expansive and freeflowing rugby.
Unfortunately for Paisley it was the home side that provided most of it to have the game won and the bonus point secured mid way through the first half.
The visitors rarely threatened to score and were on the back foot for most of the half trying to stem the tide of Dalziel’s aggressive running, quick off loading and pacy backs.
Paisley’s only points came from Euan Struart’s boot as the half ended 34-3.
Despite the scoreline Paisley rallied and had their best moments at the beginning and end of the second half.
Some sustained pressure from their pack had Dalziel floundering and from a scrum five metres out Murray had a great pick and go to cross. The conversion was missed but with score now 34-8 it offered some hope of respectability.
This glimmer of hope was soon extinguished as Dalziel started to cut loose, running in several tries as Paisley had to withdraw more than a few players due to injury.
With the game in its dying embers Grant Berry received a quick pass inside Paisley’s half, chipped over the Dalziel backs to collect his kick and put on the gas to outpace the home defence.
A great solo effort that was much appreciated by the Paisley supporters. Stuart converted and soon after the referee blew for full time.
The club are hoping some of their injury problems ease when they welcome Uddingston to the Anchor on Saturday.