Watsonians reign again as Kings of Sevens but Melrose claim Jed prize

Watsonians retained their Kings of the Sevens title after their opening win at the Jedforest Sevens put them out of reach of nearest challengers Melrose. But it was Melrose who defeated Watsonians 33-5 in the final at Riverside Park on Saturday to finish only four points behind the winners.

Melrose, who fielded understrength teams in a number of the sevens due to league and cup commitments, finished with three victories after Watsonians had previously won five tournaments, with Jed-forest and Selkirk winning the two others. The other prizes were shared by Edinburgh Accies and Selkirk.

Both clubs say that the sevens are a key way of developing players. With Watsonians coaches Andrew and Mike Ker absent due to other business, team manager David Harris said: “The standard of the top teams is improving, but they are not able to always get main players, but it is a great way to develop young players.”

Melrose coach Rob Chrystie added: “The boys are totally committed to the rugby, and it has been a great season.

“They were outstanding in the final. The season goes on a bit, but we have good talented young players and they get their chance.”

Melrose led 17-0 at the break in the final with two tries from Ross Mccann and one by Lucas Reid.

Craig Jackson scored on the restart as Watsonians felt the effects of a gruelling semifinal before Willie Thomson and Bruce Colvine exchanged tries.

In the first of the semis, Melrose defeated Edinburgh Accies while Watsonians oust- ed Jed-forest when Ali Harris’ last-kick conversion went over after hitting the post.