Cold and damp conditions greeted eight P6/P7 Sharks as they turned out today for an encounter with their Angus neighbours, Brechin. As Brechin arrived with good numbers the decision was made to play eight a side with rolling subs and Brechin giving the Sharks 2 players allowing everyone an opportunity to play without being on the side-lines for too long. As the first game got underway it was clear that Strathmore were not firing on all cylinders and Brechin gave us a lesson in competing for the ball. In the breakdown and ruck Strathmore were pretty much turned over every time, coupled with some very poor tackling the game became one sided much to the dismay of the Sharks side. With the first game behind us an improved performance was realised by the Sharks in the second encounter, but still we were slow to compete in the ruck and move the ball out the line – static would be a fair description and we ended on the losing side of the score line, all credit to Brechin in their performance and desire to play competitive rugby. The Sharks were offered the opportunity to redeem themselves with a third game and after some persuasion agreed that they wanted to show that the first two games were not a true reflection of how they can play. The Sharks took to the field with a sense of determination that they wanted to deliver a result before the winter break. It was night and day compared to the first two game, quick ball, solid tackling, competing in the ruck and supporting each other put Brechin on the back foot from which they struggled to recover. This resulted in a convincing win for the Sharks putting a smile back on the young faces. It took a lot of courage and true spirit to deliver on the last game – something the young Sharks should be proud of, well done. With the winter break now on us we must over the next two months make every effort to keep up fitness levels for the return in February – I am sure parents will help with this!

Report by R Beaton