Twenty boys (plus ano later arrival) turned up looking for a game, which gave us two teams of ten by drawing names from a hat to decide teams. We had originally about thirty odd names. But we had the usual call offs due to Flu Virus ,Dentist and hangover. Our forwards coach called off saying he was in bed with Man Flu (who or whatever turns you on!! Get well soon Cakes).

Now to the game , the conditions were blustery and wet but this did not spoil a very enjoyable match. The Pacific Islanders started with a bang, with a lovely handling move by Callum Hanratty onto Rups then Bruce (our coach looking the part, but I am saying no more) who set up a scoring pass to Jordan Usher on the wing.

The game was heating up, with both sides having their share of the ball. But it was the Islanders that went into a three try lead by having the better finishers in their team. Pirates centre P.C (Roger) Plod did some powerful tackling in the middle of the park and winning crucial ball. It was passed quickly to Jimmy (my head is sore) Johnstone, who galloped in for the Pirates' first try.

Cam King and Ian Murray were very busy throughout the game both making yards each time on the ball. Peter Walker made an excellent run on the wing but was caught by Colin Yule (who came all the way from Sydney just to play in this game) twenty yards short of the try line, showing the effort that was being put in by both sides.

There was some excellent rugby played in this first half with strong runs from Johnny and Tyler both making 20 -30 yard runs and some good hands by Howser (who, with his excellent beard, looks like an extra in Homeland) and Roger with Dougie Liddle getting in on the scoring.

The second half started with a bang with Nigel making some great breaks and a fine 60 yard run by Oliver to score a try in the corner. Tries were coming thick and fast between bouts of spewing on the touchline as Christmas indulgence began to take its toll with Liddle, Johnstone and Usher scoring freely.

Ten minutes into second half, late arrival Chris Hill came on, to the delight of Bruce who had run himself into the ground (aye right!!). Superb running by Fraser, who tackled like a demon, showing there is more to his rugby skills than hooking, was all over the park! And with Roger and Howser showing passing skills unknown to forwards, the Pirates were slowly getting on top with the pace of Johnstone on the wing.

Further tries by Hill, Liddle, Lee, Walker and Rups, the game was see-sawing back and forward. But with Thorburn tackling like a demon, Spoons supporting every move, and Chas all but scoring, it was pleasing to see everyone enjoying themselves and giving their all.

Last try of the match came from Hanratty who broke from half way to score between the posts.

The final try count was Islanders 12 tries v Pirates 9 tries. No conversions were allowed, just to minimise resting periods.

This was a fun game played in good spirits and one which we as a club should be looking to expand into a yearly event. Thanks to all the players that turned up and special thanks for referee Arnie.