School rivals set to square off
Perthshire rivals Glenalmond College and Strathallan will meet in the final of Scottish Rugby’s Under-18 School’s Cup next month.
Both camps have already started preparations ahead of the December 6 showdown at Murrayfield, the home of the sport in Scotland.
Glenalmond booked their place in the final courtesy of a dramatic late penalty in a low-scoring 6-3 victory against Fettes College.
Full-back Ben Morrison was in charge of the crucial kick which sailed between the posts to spark wild celebrations from players and spectators.
It proved to be a big day for local lad Jamie Morrison, who was playing for the 1st XV for the first time having been drafted in from the U16s.
Despite few scores, head of rugby at Glenalmond Graham Smith believes the match was packed full of high-quality action.
“The scoreline doesn’t really pay tribute to what a fantastic match it was,”he said.
“Both teams attacked the Glenalmond line-up after their victory against Fettes College other line in equal measure, producing a real nail-biter for the entire 70 minutes.
“Obviously, though, we are very chuffed with the final score.”
Strathallan’s journey to the final has been a tough one with wins recorded against St Columbus, Glasgow Academy and Stewarts Melville.
That was before their semi-final 21-3 triumph this week against Edinburgh’s George Watson’s at
Myreside.
In that match, Strathallan dominated up front in the final quarter after a finely balanced first half.
The work of their bigger forward pack proved to be the key difference between the two sides.
Director of rugby at Strathallan Andy Henderson, who has nurtured talent such as Zander and Matt Fagerson, was proud of the performance.
He explained:“Before the Strathallan celebrate after defeating George Watson’s game, I spoke to the players about great leaders who have overcome adversity. The quality they all had was courage.
“I tried to impress upon the players that it would take courage to win the semifinal, and for everyone to be a leader in the game.
“At half-time, our captain, Murphy Walker, reminded them about digging deep and finding the courage to win the match.
“To a man they did this and
did themselves proud. It took real effort to beat a quality side like George Watson’s.
“The job now for the players is to create more memories in the final.
“For anyone associated with the school, I would encourage them to come to the final on December 6 to share what will be a fantastic evening.”
The final takes place at Murrayfield on December 6. Kick off is at 7.45pm and entry is free.