Nail-biter sees South recover from 18-point deficit to secure victory

THE South got over the line in a nailbiting Inter-District Championship clash with Edinburgh.

Managed by Matty Douglas, the South were facing an 18-point half-time deficit in Musselburgh.

But they fought back impressively after the interval to secure a 27-24 victory. The result was in doubt until the final whistle as the lead only changed in the last 10 minutes.

Paddy Ritchie gave the hosts, who were playing with a strong wind, the lead before Kirk Ford’s penalty gave the

South their first points.

Calum Crookshanks crashed over for Edinburgh for a try which was converted by Charlie Brett.

Another Ford penalty kept the visitors in contention in a game where they were struggling to see much of the ball.

Ryan Daley and Robbie Kent dotted down for Edinburgh before half time as they secured their four-try bonus. When the referee blew his whistle it was 24-6 in favour of the hosts.

The South knew they had a big task on their hands in the second period but had to wait until the 56th minute for Keith Melbourne to power over. Ford nailed the conversion.

A tap-and-go from Jae Linton saw him touch down as momentum started to build for the South. Ford’s conversion meant there were only four points in it.

The visitors completed their turn around with just minutes to go when Callum Anderson went over after being found out wide. Ford’s reliable boot notched the extras.

A late Edinburgh onslaught ensued but the South held firm to take the win.

Douglas is joined in his team by three other Borders coaches. Melrose’s Iain Chisholm trains the backs/attack while Selkirk’s Gordon Henderson and Kelso’s Bruce McNeil share responsibilities in coaching the forwards.

This year’s tournament is being played in a round robin format.

In the other result on the weekend, 2023 winners Caledonia Reds lost a tight 26-22 encounter with Glasgow & The West at Braidholm.

The South host Glasgow & The West in round two at Poynder Park, Kelso.