The 'Shire Win Big in Banchory!

Aberdeenshire started the game well, keeping possession and putting Deeside on the back foot from kick off. A scrum and a good move out to the backs allowed Michael MacLugash to get over the line. However, while doing so he dipped the shoulder into Deeside’s Number 9 which resulted in the player being taken off for the rest of the match. Conversion missed.

Wasn’t long before shire were over the line again with a fantastic run by Jason Burton breaking through the opponents defensives. This time Gav Cunningham was able to slot it through the posts giving ‘Shire a lead of 0 - 12.

After a lot of structure and defensive work from shire in the middle of the park it was now time for ‘Shire to turn on the attack. With some good play and a very well organised ‘Shire side, Jason Burton broke the line and was over for his 2nd of the game. Once again Gav Cunningham got the conversion.

Straight from kick off after a couple phases of play Kenny penman broke the line and scored under the posts, followed by another successful conversion from Gav Cunningham.

Aberdeenshire were on fire managing to score three more tries before half time. Tries came from Gav Cunningham, Michael MacLugash and Jamie Stephen. Jonny Gray had taken over the kicking duties and was successful for 2 out of the 3 conversions.

HT: 0 - 45

The 2nd half began and ‘Shire was once again on the front foot. Good phases of play from the forwards allowed James Dooley to get on to the score sheet. Unsuccessful conversion from Jamie Stephen.
As the game went on with a mixture of bad weather and scrappy play from both sides, Deeside managed to score a try and a successful conversion bringing the score to 7 – 50.

Shire bounced back from kick off and turned-over the ball leading to Thomas Dugdale for his first Try of the game. Conversion successful by Jonny Gary.
Another try came soon after for the visitors when Grant Lafferty used his power to push over the line for his first try for ‘Shire. Missed conversion Jonny Gray.

After a tiring second half and with Deeside upping the intensity, ‘Shire were able to get the last points of the game with another try for Gav Cunningham getting his second of the day. Missed conversion Jonny Gray.

FT: 7 – 67

Special mention to the ‘Shire boys Andrew Webster, Grant Lafferty and Steve Cook that stepped up the plate and played for Deeside for periods of time while the homeside were lacking numbers.

Referee - Fraser Sutherland
Touch judge- The Goose

Match Report by Kieran Fulton.

‘Shire can be proud of their performance, qualifying for the Sem-Final of the Caledonia North Regional Bowl. This match is due to be played at The Fortress, Woodside, on Saturday 16th of November against either Shetland RFC or Kinloss Eagles. Opposition due to be confirmed after their match on the 26th of October!

Match Photography by Gareth Falls is available from Rugby People! https://www.rugbypeople.net/galleries#/deeside-v-aberdeenshire-05102019/

Training continues tonight from 18:30 at The Fortress as the ‘Shire 1XV turn their focus back to the league. The next match is Away against the Highland 2XV in Inverness the Saturday!

Aberdeenshire RFC is an open club which welcomes players throughout the season with all abilities, fitness and experience levels!

Join the Big Cat Family!

REMINDERS -
The Youth Section, ‘Shire Colts, are taking a break this weekend and will return on Sunday the 20th of October!

This Sunday we have a big Event at the ROX Hotel for the Scotland vs Japan match! Tickets still available! READ MORE: https://www.aberdeenshirerfc.com/news/club-event--rugby-world-cup-lunch-2474286.html