East Kilbride U18s 30 -v- 12 Kilmarnock U18s

Having not played since the 9th December, Kilmarnock travelled to East Kilbride, knowing they would be in for a tough match against a team gunning for revenge from their previous encounter.

The first half was error strewn, and rustiness was certainly on show with Kilmarnock starting slowly and going behind to two early penalties. A try following what ‘appeared’ to be a clear knock on from a high ball, further compounded issues with the first half finishing 13-0.

The second half was a far better showing from
Kilmarnock, who after gong down to another converted try, fought back through two well taken try’s from Thomas Dunlop, the second of which was a well timed interception. Thomas converted one and pulled the other wide from the touch line.

While the momentum appeared to now be on the side of Kilmarnock, EK were able to run in two more unconverted try’s to finish the game 30-12.

It is easy in hindsight to blame decisions. A clear knock-on from a high ball, a ball clearly being kicked out of covering defenders hands from 5 metres, or coming in from the side with a no arms tackle at ruck to dislodge a turned over ball - all which led to a try. But we need to learn to play not only to conditions but also the referee…we can only control how we play.

While the result was disappointing, there were some positives with the return of Matthew Penrose after over 2 years following surgery on his ACL, Jackson Cuthbert playing his first match after a hamstring injury in pre-season and a debut for Mason Boyd.

There were some contenders for MOTM, with Matthew Penrose showing up well on his return, Lawrie Moir industrious at scrum half, and Daniel Christie looking to put Kilmarnock on the front foot with his direct running from the base of the scrum. But for his work rate in attack and defence, including a try saving covering tackle on EKs breakaway winger, todays MOTM goes to Kilmarnock’s points scorer Thomas Dunlop.

Thanks to East Kilbride for their hospitality and we wish them luck for their remaining cup games.