Carson’s charges ease on through

Rugby union: Orkney lose at home to GHK

North clubs enjoyed mixed fortunes in the first round of the Scottish Cup, with Highland cruising through at the expense of St Boswells, while Orkney found GHA of National 1 too much to handle despite home advantage.

Highland head coach Davie Carson was delighted with the 56-19 win against fellow National 3 side St Boswells.

“We hit the ground running, scoring seven tries, six ofwhichwereconverted by stand off Scott Fraser. It was a good pointer as to what we can expect in our new league.

“Getting a competitive game was good and sets us up nicely for our first league game next week, whenwehost Orkney,” said Carson.

“They were clearly shattered by the long trip north, we know how they feel.”

Winger Craig Findlater was the home side’s standout, crossing the St Boswells line twice as Highland piled on the pressure.

Orkney’s bid to celebrate 50years ofrugbywithawin came unstuck at Pickaquoy where GHA won 47-17. The islanders were well up to the pace in the first half and, at 12-7, looked to be in with a chance of springing a surprise.

Full back Philip Ross opened the scoring for the Orcadians with an early try, converted by Graham Poke before the Glasgow side took control of the game with a burst of tries early in the second half.

Despite two late tries, from prop Scott Rendall and centre David Hamilton, one of which was converted by Poke, it was GHA who took the win.

of two Stewart’s-Melville players during Saturday’s Scottish Cup victory

Davie Carson: Looking forward to next game