Another loss but appetite remains

Rugby: Improved show cheers Grammar chief

Jed-Forest 40 Grammar 21

Aberdeen Grammar’s players have been backed by club chairman Gordon Thomson to pull clear of the league relegation area, despite falling to their sixth defeat in a row.

Thomson said: “This was a vastly improved performance from us once we had got over going 21- 0 down before half-time.

“The players came back well to get in a winning situation to only trail 26-21 going into the final quarter and had effectively shut up the home crowd.

“On our form shown in the majority of the second half, I’ll back the players to come good, starting with our home game with Musselburgh on Saturday.”

Grammar fell behind early in the game, leaking three converted tries, but turned the game around in the second period to score three tries of their own, all converted by Sam Knudson, who had another fine game in the number 10 jersey.

The touchdowns came from prop Shane Clark, scrum half Jake Gray and centre Matt Arnold.

ButGrammarlost an unconverted try in the middle of their spell of domination, giving the Riverside outfit breathing space and a launching pad for a late rally to make the game safe with two late tries.

Despite missing key players, including captain Calum Champion and experienced winger Grant Walker, Grammar demonstrated an appetite for the game and will relish the prospect of a home match against Musselburgh, who are immediately above them in the league.

Thomson added: “The next two games, against Musselburgh and GHA, before we go into a threeweek autumn break are vital.”