EK scrap their way to hard-fought win
East Kilbride RFC emerged from a scrappy encounter at home to Stewartry with a 22-10 victory.
Having previously run in over 40 unanswered points when the sides met earlier this season, it was reasonable to think EK could pick up the maximum return and maintain the pressure on West Regional Division One leaders Allan Glens.
However, a combination of a much-improved Stewartry and miserable conditions reduced the gap between the teams and scuppered this plan.
EK opened the scoring with a Roddy Beaton penalty but it was the visitors who claimed the first try.
The hosts regained the lead when Paul Rosie thundered over and there were further first-half tries for Chris McLellan and Chris O’Neill.
Stewartry, though, grabbed a second of their own which left the half-time score at 22-10.
Although the weather improved in the second half, much of the damage was done with hands very wet and cold and the scoreboard operators were untroubled during the second half.
Ultimately, this will go down as an opportunity lost by EK in terms of securing the four-try bonus point.
With four viable potential champions in the mix, a maximum return from home games played against teams outwith this grouping will be required.
This Saturday, Allan Steel’s men face a huge game on the road at Allan Glen’s. Kick-off is 2pm.