Win for U16s keeps it tight at the top.

By Steve Thomson

U16s win away at Boroughmuir secures qualification for the Scottish Cup.

In their fist competitive match since early November the U16s remain unbeaten and continue their league challenge. Under foot conditions were good considering the recent weather and, with a National Cup place at stake, both teams new that only a win would see them qualify.

North Berwick started strongly and quickly forced an error from the Boroughmuir forwards. From the resulting scum Smith joined the back line at pace and scored close to the posts. The lead was extended on 10 minutes when Slater sent over a drop goal with the referee playing advantage for a penalty in front of the posts. Boroughmuir hit back quickly with a try after the referee had decided that a maul had not formed after a lineout and the Muir back row sneaked around to steal the ball and scored out wide.

The NB forwards were wining good ball however handling errors in mid field prevented any further threat to the Boroughmuir try line. When the NB backs did threaten, Boroughmuir were equal to the task and tackled well. Eventually the backs got it right and Salisbuy showed that he still has pace to score in the corner. Slater made up for his earlier miss in front of the posts by slotting the conversion.
Half Time Boroughmuir 5, North Berwick 15.

Boroughmuir increased the tempo after the break but the North Berwick defence worked hard to keep them at bay. Finding no way through Muir resorted to a kicking game but received no change from the NB back three. Smith and Salisbury both made good breaks only to be tackled short of the line with options available. With 5 minutes remaining it was Mackle that secured the win taking a short pass from Grey and breaking a tackle.

Final score Boroughmuir 5, North Berwick 20.

North Berwick go through to the draw for the Scottish cup and keep the chase at the top of the U16 league tight. Boroughmuir are a team that have improved significantly since last year and will look to consolidate their position in 3rd place.