Match could serve as season’s big test

Caledonia clubs swing back into league action tomorrow led by Orkney, the top team in Caley Division 1, who are in Aberdeen to face Aberdeen Wanderers.

The islanders will relish a trip back to Groats Road after beating the home side 65-12 in the Caley Regional Shield in early September, although according to Russell Arthur, the Wanderers director of rugby, they will face a team with a different approach and attitude.

He said: “We’ll be concentrating on a good performance against a good Orkney team. This is a game that could serve as the litmus test for our season.”

Ellon are at home to Hillfoots, a team they thrashed 67-5 in the Shield a month ago, and while Craig Parslow is not promising a similar outcome, he believes his side should be confident of rising to the occasion.

The Ellon coach said: “Once again we will be fielding a handful of teenagers who have done us proud thus far.”

In the same division, newly promoted Garioch face the daunting task of playing Dunfermline in Fife.

Caley 2 North leaders Aberdeenshire, who have set themselves the target of a league and Bowl double, will be severely tested by 2nd Highland in Inverness.

Elsewhere in the division, Ross Sutherland play Moray in Elgin. Mackie FP’s are at home to North Police Scotland, and 2nd Aberdeen Grammar host Banff.

The big game in Caley 3 North is the clash of leaders Huntly at Market Muir where Aberdeen University are the visitors.

In Caley League 2 the newly formed second teams of Aberdeenshire and Ellon face each other at the Meadows.