9/5/10 - Moffat

The final Mini Rugby Sunday of the season took place last weekend when the young players made the short journey to Moffat to take on the growing Mini section there.

School trips, cub/scout camps, birthday parties and a variety of other factors meant the traveling numbers were considerably down from the norm and all age groups were sorely depleted. Mix and match was the order of the day with a smattering of the older P2s who have been training with the P3s now playing with them, the P4s and two or three P5s joining forces and finally, a handful each of P6s and P7s combining to make up a fairly rudimentary team.

Not surprisingly, it was a bit of a hit or a miss throughout, but the local players all gave of their best scoring some excellent tries in the process too. None more so than P3’s Cameron Gray with a couple to his name – the first one costing his mum a sizeable donation to Cameron’s pocket money!

During the summer, there will be a range of coaching courses for the adults and summer camps for the players. Ants and the Development Team will be in charge – keep your eyes on the club website for all the details.

That’s us then until Sunday 15th August. More details of the season ahead will be available nearer the time. Until then, have a good summer.

25/4/10 - Currie

Mini Update

As expected the Currie tournament presented a tough day for all age groups. All teams were drawn against Madrascals, Currie and Ayr.

The P4's excelled themselves, playing the best rugby they have played all season which bodes well for the future. All performed out of their socks; tackles and passing was great, the support play was spot on,  and the players had a great day.  In all 3 matches Biggar were eventually beaten by a few weavy runners but the coaches have never been happier with their play. Well done P4's.

Scores:  Biggar  2  v  Madrascals  7 : Biggar  4  v  Currie Ambers  10 : Biggar   3  v  Ayr  6

The P5's lost two and won against Ayr. They too played really well and were very unlucky, particularly against Madrascals where they matched the opposition all the way to the end. In the final match their efforts were rewarded with  a well deserved victory against Ayr.

The P6's opening game against Madrascals was very positive 1-1. Biggar's rush defence proved decisive in not letting Madrascals run freely with ball in hand.

Their 2nd game against Currie Ambers was altogether a tougher affair. Biggar started badly and conceded some early tries. Once some self-belief was restored Biggar were more competitive matching Currie for tries in the 2nd half. Final result 6-3 to Currie.

The final game at pool stage was against Ayr…….Biggar needing a win to be 100% certain of progressing in the tournament. In a close game Biggar came out second best at half time (4-2 down). However in the second half they played good rugby and pulled ahead 5-4 with a minute to go. A well executed try by Ayr from the kick-off meant a 5-5  draw - a fair result on balance.

There was still cause for celebration however as a result of Biggar scoring more tries in the group stage they progressed to the semi-final against Stew Melville.

Biggar struggled and some tired legs were evident. However, the boys did not give up. Injury toll started to tell and Stew Melv. came out clear winners 7-0.

The 7's had a mixed afternoon. They started with a draw against Madrascals conceding in the last minute to prevent a well-earned victory. Currie proved too fast and strong for Biggar who were still reeling from this match when they took on Ayr. The first half was one way but Biggar turned up for the 2nd half and drew that. What a difference playing a full match would make. The team still has many newish to the game of rugby and overall they have developed well through the season. How much more that could have been had the full squad regularly trained we do not know, but the better skills and understanding of the opposing teams is the result of them training together as a squad. This is a shame for those regulars who turn up week in week out and give everything through the matches.

This weekend it's back to Edinburgh and the Boroughmuir tournament, another tough ask for the 'wee' Biggar teams. How can the townies 'breed' bigger, more physical players than those Biggar are able to field?

Coaches will be in touch regarding meeting and kick off times.

18/4/10 - Stirling County

On what is always a good test of rugby the minis travelled to Stirling for their annual tournament.

All Biggar age groups were heavily affected by Theatre workshop Dress rehearsals, injuries, triathlons and National Judo championships. So much so in fact that the P7's were unable to raise a side. The other three age groups travelled through to face teams from Stirling, North Berwick and Stewarts Melville in their league matches.

The P4's were up against Stirling first who were a very hard and organised team who got the better of the Biggar boys at the breakdown and beat them 6-1. The Second Game was a lot better after a practice regarding faster ball passing from a tackle.  The Biggar team played some good rugby out of the tackle and ran well but were beaten by the stronger defensive side 5-2.

Third Game against Stewarts Melville started with an early Biggar try which kept them going for the whole game, trading tries with the opposition. Unluckily they were one short of a well deserved draw, losing 7-6.

All in all the kids tried really hard and learnt from match to match and their efforts were inspiring for all who watched.

While the P5 results were not available at the time of writing, the P6's were considerably short-handed by the drama  but still took a very determined side.  They started well against Stirling with a well taken try and were unlucky not to score further to press home their better start. They conceded a late try in the first half which seemed to wake up the hosts who scored two further unanswered tries in the 2nd half to take the game 3-1.  North Berwick proved to be a super contest with both sides tackling well and passing fluently. Either nearly stole it at the end but it finished 2-2. Both matches could have gone the way of the Biggar boys with a little luck.  The final match v an extremely strong and well-drilled Stew Mel side proved 1 too far for the 6's going down 7-0.  A little less throwing the ball away would have helped but the scoreline hides the effort all the boys put in throughout the afternoon and which will hopefully put them in good stead for the next few weekends.

Next week sees the minis travelling to Currie for their tournament. Matches kick off at 11am. As usual there is limited parking within the club therefore please give yourselves plenty of time to park and arrive for kick off. Good Luck to all of the teams.

Mini Update 28/3/10

The clock change has caused some of our less alert coaches and players some difficulties in past years, but I'm pleased to say that this wasn't the case last weekend when the Minis traveled to Edinburgh to take part in the annual Heriot's Tournament. Always a tough event with a very good mix of clubs and skills on show. And once again the Biggar squads put on a determined and competitive, if ultimately unsuccessful, show.

The P4s stepped up another gear from their performance at Dumfries the week before - the coaches, in particular, praising the players for some great tackling, team work and the tremendous effort put in by all. The results were 5-5 against  Heriot's, 5-7 v Madrascals and 3-6 against Musselburgh. No winners medals, but if there had been one for commitment………!

The P5s played very well, scoring 21 tries in their three games. Unfortunately, they conceded 23! The end result was a 6-9 defeat to an excellent Madrascals squad, a 9-9 draw with Musselburgh and a 6-5 victory over Heriot's. Like the P4s, the competitive and determination levels were high. And it was great to see almost all the members of the Biggar squad each crossing the line for at least one try. Superb team work boys.

The highs of the previous Sunday's performance proved just a little out of reach this time for the P6's. Having said that, they still managed to win four out of their six games and the two they lost, they did so by only one try in each. And they really could have gone either way. A little lacking in their usual structure on the field together with some unexpected gaps in defence combined to make life more difficult than it perhaps should have been. Still, it's very much part of the learning experience.

The resurgence of the P7s under the guiding hands of David Adams and Chris Low continues apace. In six twelve minute matches against some strong clubs, the locals once again performed well exceeding many's expectations of them. So much so that David and Chris need to supply Easter rewards at training next week! First up they beat a Madras/ Kirkcaldy mixed side 4-2, before losing to a very strong BATS side  2-5. The afternoon looked like it was going to be a long one when they struggled to get into their next game, losing 1-4 to the eventual winners Heriots. The reaction was good however and a 2-2 result against Portobello was followed quickly by an excellent 3-2 victory over Dunfermline and a 2-1 defeat of Musselburgh (the side who won the P7 section at last weeks Dumfries Tournament). These last two matches really showed true character and team spirit. Well done boys. 

At Hartreemill meantime, the New Image group returned to the outdoor life and it was a bit of a shock to the system for many as the joys (and the warmth!) of the sports hall was replaced by the wind and the rain. But in a session were no-one was allowed to stand still for any more than 5 seconds, all finished with rosy cheeks and smiles on their faces.

The next two weeks see all the age groups - New Image to P7 - at Hartreemill for training and coaching. An 11:00am start for all.

And in some wider club news, keep your eyes on the Club website www.biggarrfc.org.uk for news on some upcoming Rugby Development Camps - including for the Minis - during the summer; some Foundation Certificate courses for those wanting to get more involved in coaching - very useful at Mini level; and some refereeing courses - again for those involved with the Mini age groups.

Mini Update - 21.3.10 

A visit to Dumfries was the order of the day for the Minis last weekend, as they travelled south to participate in what has been a successful Tournament for the locals over the last few years. And although a tougher and more tightly contested event, Biggar still managed to return with some silverware.
 
The P4s played 5 games in all and each one of them was pretty close.  Sticklers for detail (!), the coaches picked up on some areas that could be improved upon, but were quick to point out that they were really pleased with the way their charges had played. And to cap it all, Drew Brewster, who was Biggar's main scorer during the afternoon, also won the P4 'Outstanding Player of the Tournament' award. Brilliant and well done Drew. David Adams has a certificate and a Famous Grouse 6 Nations 2010 Beanie for you. For the record, the match scores were 5-7 v Stewartry, 3-5 v Dumfries, 5-5 v Cumnock, 3-6 v Moffat and 5-5 v Ardrossan.
 
The P5s also competed well and although the results didn't fall in their favour, it shouldn't take away from the effort and skill they demonstrated in each game. By the end, it's fair to say they had nothing left in the tank. Scores here were 5-5 v Musselburgh, 9-5 v Newton Stewart, 3-4 v Langholm, 5-6 v Dumfries and 2-8 v Stewartry.
 
The P6's won their tournament section convincingly. Playing probably the best rugby that coaches have seen since being with them from P4, the Biggar side won all their matches and scored 37 tries and conceded only 4 in total.  The commitment from all, their attacking play and defensive work was tremendous and some of the tries were examples of how rugby should be played (flowing moves, good handling and great finishing). All in all they made the traveling Biggar support (& coaches) very proud today. So proud in fact, that no-one could remember an actual game score!
 
With one or two players unavailable, Biggar P7s took 11 to play 7 matches. A bit tight and made more so when they lost Henry Adams towards the end of the first match which they drew 1-1 with Musselburgh after conceding a last minute try. The next three matches saw them beat Cumnock 2-1, Langholm 4-2  and Newton Stewart 4-2. During this last game the P7s lost Lewis Todd. Down to nine, the remaining players were really competing well and working hard against some very big sides. Sadly they lost to Dumfries 3-2 before beating Ardossan 4-0 back to ten by this time as Henry tried a return which, despite scoring, he couldn't extend to the final match which with nine players, they lost to Moffat 3-2.  Results elsewhere though meant that the P7's finished as very deserved, tired and bruised runners up. The whole team deserve a mention. Craig Allison was non stop and showing his true potential. Seb Potter again supplied the bulk of our tries with his powerful running. Ross Jackson, Douglas Hill kept on working and working through knocks. Sam McCabe and Alastair Tennant made some big hits and strong runs. Ryan Kearney was everywhere in attack and defence and Stephan Mashford  again got fully involved making some crucial tackles and good support.  Stuart Affleck made some strong runs, passed well creating good gaps and tackled strongly as ever. ALL never stopped and worked for each other all day. Well done boys. 
 
The Minis are on the road again this Sunday as they travel to Edinburgh on this occasion to take part in the annual Heriot's Mini Tournament. Kick-off for all age groups is 12:30pm. With registration due to be completed by 12:00 noon, those leaving the clubhouse at Biggar will do so at 10:30am, those traveling direct should aim to be at the Heriot's ground by 11:30am
The New Image group - all those up to P3 - have now completed their spell indoors and will all return to outdoors work at the clubhouse. It's an 11:00am start time for them.
 
And, if you are one of the families looking to join in on the Family Lunch day ahead of the 1st XV game against Stirling County this Saturday, please note that, as Stirling are still involved in the Cup, the game at Hartree Mill will now be moved to another date. Keep your eyes on the website and in the press for more details.
 
Mini Update - 7.3.10
 
It was a hard lesson for the Minis last weekend when Stewart's Melville visited Hartree Mill. The previous cold weather meant that both clubs were a little short of match practice, however the Edinburgh sides very much hit the ground running. And unfortunately, some of the Biggar teams were caught napping.
 
The P4s were on the receiving end of some pretty emphatic scorelines - 0-11, 2-10, 2-11 and 3-11. Positively though, the squad was able to field two teams, neither of which let their heads go down as the tries against column rose. The locals' coaches were pleased with the teamwork shown, but noted that the Biggar sides were slower to the breakdown than their opponents and, on the day, couldn't match their attacking skills.
 
On the surface, the P5's headline scores of 0-6 and 2-4 don't look flattering. The coaches though were very pleased with the way the Biggar side played against what was considered a very slick Stew Mel side, accomplished in both defence and attack. That the locals competed better and achieved a closer result in the second game was testament to their spirit and teamwork.
 
Although they started well, the P6s recent defensive lapses returned to haunt them again. And their well drilled and skilful Edinburgh opponents took full advantage to record a 1-8 victory. Lots of work to be done then before the tournament season commences in a couple of weeks time, but the coaches and players remain confident that they can return to their previous winning ways.
 
One side that did manage to break Stewart's Melville's stranglehold however, was Biggar's P7s. The improvements noted previously continued on Sunday and, over four sessions, the local players came out on top by 8 tries to 6. Demonstrating more pace and greater defensive strength, the Biggar side recorded a well deserved victory.
 
The anticipated P3 game didn't quite materialise as Stewart's didn't travel to Biggar with an equivalent squad. Not to be denied however, the young Biggar players competed against themselves in a very good and even match of 12 tries. Kitted out in club playing tops for the very first time, the locals soon got over the disappointment of not playing another club and, with some excellent advice and support from coaches Kenny and Hani, put on a very good show. Well done to all.
 
This Sunday, the Minis return to training, with those older P2s and P3s on playing duty last weekend joining the P4s, P5s, P6s and P7s at the clubhouse at 11:00am. The remainder of the New Image group will continue indoors at the sports hall - again an 11:00am start.
 
A reminder that the Minis and Midis are travelling to Murrayfield on Saturday 13th to see Scotland play England in the latest Calcutta Cup match. All confirmed as going to the game are asked to be at the clubhouse for 2:30pm. The bus will leave at 2:45pm. Return time at Biggar is estimated at 8:15/8:30pm. 
 

Mini Update: 14/02/10

 

With the excitement, the thrill and unfortunately the disappointment of the previous day's Cardiff international still fresh in their minds, the Minis set off last Sunday for a bit of an adventure of their own. It's been a long time since Biggar's youngest players have made the trip to Jedburgh and it's possible the same can be said of the coaches - if they been there at all! Jedforest were the hosts, with Melrose making up the triumvirate.

First up were the P4s. All played well, especially considering the strength of the 2 sides they were against.  The coaches were pleased to see a great improvement in the general play, although recognised that a bit more work is needed on the tackling/confidence to take the practice into games.  Coming up against some strong sides certainly brought the best out in the locals and they all worked well as a team. Playing 10 minute games they played Melrose twice and Jedforest just the once. The first game against Melrose ended 4 all, the second 4-6 to Melrose. The game against Jedforest ended in an excellent 3-2 victory for Biggar.

The P5 results were not available at the time of typing.

Unfortunately and unusually, the P6s were not on their best form and consequently struggled a bit against a couple of good and well organised sides, losing their games to Melrose and Jedforest - each 1-4. Both the Borders sides had a number of big, strong players who were able to break through Biggar tackles. This is an area the coaches agree they need to focus on as the locals were not as strong across all eight in tackling as they needed to be. However, the players never gave up and all know that they can play better.

The P7s played Jedforest first and, without a doubt, knew they had been in a game. Concentrating on their rugby, the locals kept on trying to the end, but Jed - who had players briefly sin-binned for high tackles and other misdemeanours - went on to win 1-3. Next up were Melrose and although Biggar put in another performance of sustained effort, it wasn't enough to prevent a very good Borders side winning 2-5. In the final game, Melrose beat Jedforest 4-0.

While all this was going on, the New Image group continued their work indoors and with Keith being the sole coach there, he was particularly pleased at the behaviour and concentration levels of all the players who joined him in the sports hall. Well done to all.

This Sunday sees Livingston and Peebles travelling to Hartreemill. Kick-off is scheduled for 11:00am and all the Biggar age groups are asked to be at the clubhouse for no later than 10:15am. The P7s are in the catering chair.

New Image will gather once again at the sports hall at 11:00am where they'll spend another hour continuing their learning and rugby education. The P3s, in particular, with a focus on games coming up in March.

Mini Update - 24.1.10

 
Boroughmuir's withdrawal and Linlithgow's appearance with only two of the expected  four sides, meant the Minis were a little less busy than they had anticipated last Sunday. And following the problems of the last few weekends, this was not what they had been looking for.
 
As a result, the P4s and P5s concentrated on training games to rid themselves of the forming rust, while the P6s and P7s were able to settle down into some more serious game play. The New Image group meantime, were happily ensconced in the warmth of the sports hall and taking full advantage.
 
Back down at the clubhouse, the Biggar P6s had agreed a playing format with their Linlithgow counterparts - a game split over 4 quarters - and proceeded to a pretty convincing 10-2 win. Although playing very well offensively, the locals' defence was not always as secure as the scoreline would suggest and is an area that the coaches will no doubt be working on over the next few weeks. However, after all the recent inactivity, there was more than enough on view to bring several smiles to the players' and coaches faces.
 
The P7s went the more orthodox route of a game of two halves and played it very much in that vein. A young side in both age and rugby experience - many of the players having joined only this season - the Biggar side struggled a little against a pretty slick Linlithgow side that was more alert, quicker to the ball and quicker around the paddock. Having said that and despite the 1-3 defeat, the locals continued the improvement noted pre-Christmas, although greater consistency and teamwork remain at the head of the coaches' priorities.
 
The next two weeks provide training and coaching opportunities for the Minis with the P4s, P5s, P6s and P7s all at Hartree Mill preparing for games in the Borders on 14 February. Training starts at the normal 11:00am on each occasion. The New Image group will continue indoors at the sports hall - again the usual 11:00am start for them as well.

Mini Update 10/01/10

With the games at Selkirk, not unexpectedly, called off midweek and the ground at Hartree Mill under a blanket of snow, it was another Sunday break for the majority of Minis last weekend. The only ones in any kind of action were the New Image players, who had the undoubted benefit of the warmth and shelter of the sports hall and who put in an excellent session as a result. Thanks to Hani and Andrew who joined the regular coaches Dawn, Kenny, Lauren and Michael.

This coming weekend, weather permitting, the Minis hope to be back training at Hartree Mill. Important, considering the lack of action so far this year and that the following Sunday sees Boroughmuir and Linlithgow visiting Biggar. Training begins at 11:00am as usual. New Image are now indoors for the next few months, where they hope to take real advantage of the sports hall's facilities. It's an 11:00am start for them as well and they will continue until 12:00 noon.

Looking a little further ahead, there are two Six Nations internationals at Murrayfield this year and the Biggar Minis and Midis will, as usual, be joining all the other supporters on each occasion. The ticket allocation has been agreed with the SRU and Keith (for the Minis) and Aird (for the Midis) will be in touch soon with all the details. The first match will take place on Sunday 7 February when France will be the visitors and this will be followed when England travel to Edinburgh on Saturday 13 March. If you haven't yet let Keith or Aird know that you want to go to one of the games, now is the time to do so.

Mini Update - 3.1.10
 
The ongoing winter conditions put paid to the Minis planned return to action last Sunday.   With snow covering the Hartree Mill pitches and training areas and freezing temperatures (-11.5c recorded at 11:00am) making them bone hard and dangerously rutted, the section wisely gave last Sunday a pass - a good one of course! With the leisure centre not yet re-opened following the Christmas and New Year break, there was no indoor activity for the New Image group either.
 
All of this means that the P4s, P5s, P6s and P7s re-introduction to their kit bags will take place at Selkirk when they travel to the Borders club on Sunday 10th January. And, provided the games go ahead - there being no let-up in the weather conditions in sight so far, meaning this won't necessarily be the case - it's expected to be a tough occasion for the locals. Kick-off is scheduled for 11:00am. Those travelling direct are asked to be at the Selkirk ground for 10:30am; those leaving the clubhouse will aim to do so at 9:00am.
 
Keith will liaise with his Selkirk counterpart and coaches will be in touch with their respective age groups should there be any change to these arrangements.
 
The New Image group meantime will move indoors to the new sports hall at the High School, so remember it will be training shoes instead of boots . As the other age groups will be playing elsewhere, the P3 players will remain at Biggar with their New Image friends - I'm sure several others are wishing they were moving indoors as well! - and this group will begin training at 11:00am.

Mini Update-13/12/09

Despite the hard frost over the weekend, it was full steam ahead for the Minis last Sunday. Very well wrapped up, the New Image group enjoyed a shorter, sharper session at Hartree Mill where the emphasis, first of all, was on keeping warm. Then, together with building on the ball handling skills from the previous week, Biggar's youngest players finished with what we'll loosely call a game - with the oldest boys, Kenny and Keith, just about keeping up!

The rest of the Minis made the journey through to Edinburgh with Stewart's Melville and Dunfermline providing the opposition. Given the weather conditions, the fact that the anticipated 'phone call cancelling the games not coming through was somewhat of a surprise, but in the event, although cold, the pitches appeared perfectly playable.

While Stewart's are old and oftimes formidable Mini foes, Dunfermline were new opponents and thus a bit of an unknown quantity. The afternoon therefore promised to be an interesting one.

Constantly improving, it was great to see the P4s being able to put out two teams. And in stark contrast to some of the results earlier in the season, the young players were far more confident and consequently, considerably more competitive. A great job is being done by all the coaches and the players are responding ever more positively. On the day, the Biggar Bulldogs played a couple of games against Stewart's Melville which could have gone either way. Ultimately however, the locals just missed out, losing 4-6 and 2-3. Sandwiched between these was a 4-9 defeat to Dunfermline and a 4-10 loss to the second Biggar team, the Bruins. The Bruins meanwhile held Dunfermline to a 4-4 draw, beat one Stewart's side 6-4 and lost to a second by 3 tries to 9. Progress all round - well done to everyone.

Unusually, the P6's lost both games to Dunfermline & Stewart's. The first match was a close affair against Dunfermline . Although pretty evenly matched , the Fife side were just a little bit stronger at the breakdown and marginally more adept at taking their opportunities, eventually winning 0-2. Against Stewart's, the Biggar side never really got into their stride and it was more or less backs against the wall from start to finish. Playing a strong running game, the Edinburgh side triumphed 0-5. The Christmas break is probably arriving at the right time for the P6s, whose form has dipped a little recently.

The P7's opened against Dunfermline and while still thinking about how cold it was, came out on the wrong side of a 2-8 defeat. Although to be fair, coach David Adams described the Fifers as being the best 'proper' tackling side they have played against who just happened to be very capable with the ball in hand too. Luckily, the Biggar players' attitude changed for the match against Stew Mel when they competed for the ball, ran hard and defended very well - particularly Kyle Anderson. Biggar won this game 4-2 with the tries being scored by Sebastian Potter and Henry Adams. However, all played their parts - particularly memorable was Stephen Mashford's tackle towards the end of the Stewart's match and Alastair Tennant who made some really strong runs and tackles.

At the time of writing, the P5 results had still to come in.

There's no rugby this coming Sunday, as all attention will be on the Mini Christmas Party. This year's event is scheduled for a 2:00pm start in the new sports hall at the High School and will continue to around 5:00pm. All Mini players, including New Image, are welcome.

There will be no training or games the following Sunday (27th) either, with the P4s, P5s, P6s and P7s all returning to the training field on 3rd January to prepare for their games at Selkirk on the 10th. Although not playing at Selkirk, the P3s will step up their preparations for next season and will also restart on 3rd January when they will join the P4 players at the clubhouse. The rest of the New Image players won't return to training until Sunday 10th and, when they do, it will be indoors in the new sports hall. Some guys have all the luck!

 

Mini Update - 8.11.09

Dumfries and Moffat were the Minis' opponents when they visited Hartreemill last Sunday. And it's fair to say that some of the skills on show matched the weather on what was a superb Autumn day.

With both the visiting clubs being players down at different levels, some of the games featured a variety of age groups. This was the case at P4 where it was a mix of mainly P4 and P5 players contesting each game. And with the make-up of the teams changing for each game, there was no time for the players to get to know each other, never mind learn how each of them played rugby. The Biggar sides competed well, although, unfortunately, the improvements of the previous weeks stalled a little as they let both the Dumfries and Moffat sides dominate, losing the games 0-7 and 0-4 (to Dumfries) and 2-6 and 3-5 (to Moffat). The better results in each of the second games testament to the coaches and also to the players adopting a more organised approach.

With neither a Dumfries nor Moffat P5 side, Biggar's P5s decided to take on the Moffat P6 team - and with some impressive results too.   Strong in both attack and defence, the locals worked very hard as a unit and this was, ultimately, what paid dividends against an equally competitive Moffat. 7-5 was the final score and a deserved, if initially unexpected, victory for Biggar. For a second game, the Biggar P5s joined with their P6 friends to form mixed sides and entertained the watching crowd in another high scoring but close result - this time 5-4. A challenging and very good experience for all concerned.

At P6 level, all three clubs were able to field sides. The Biggar players were in excellent form, chasing and harrying when required, producing flowing and impressive moves when going forward. Playing Dumfries twice and Moffat once, the locals managed to run in 24 tries while conceding only 2. An 11-1 win against Moffat was sandwiched by 8-1 and 5-0 victories against Dumfries. You could say it was "a good day at the office"! A very well done to the players and, of course, to the coaches as well.

 

Three sides at P7 level as well, meant a good morning's rugby for the locals and they responded very well to the challenges laid in front of them by the visiting sides. An opening 4-2 win against a well drilled Dumfries squad increased confidence and, encouraged by support from the touchline, moved on to a second game against Moffat. Once again triumphant - this time by 6 tries to 3 - the players and coaches were all pretty satisfied with how they had performed and, understandably, were looking forward to building on the experience in the weeks ahead.

The New Image group, with yet more new players joining, held another impressive and fun session with all the players listening, learning and contributing to what was a good performance from all. Undoubtedly some stars of the future.

This coming Sunday, all age groups - New Image to P7 - will be back on the training fields preparing for the following weekend's visit to Edinburgh to play Watsonian's. Training starts at 11:00am for all.

Before then of course, the Minis and Midis will be making a trip to Murrayfield on 14 November to watch the Scotland v Fiji Autumn International. Some tickets still remain but they are going fast. If you haven't yet heard from Keith or Aird, please get in touch. For those travelling on Saturday, all are asked to be at the clubhouse for 12 noon.

The other games at Murrayfield will feature Australia (21st November) and Argentina (28th November).

 

Mini Update - 1.11.09
 
The missing results from the visit to Ayr on 25.10.09:-
 
Despite playing very well and scoring some excellent tries, the P4s couldn't quite pull out the extra scores necessary to give them hard fought wins against strong Ayr and Ardrossan sides. However week by week improvements - greater consistency, good hands, passing and defending - are giving the young players increased confidence and one of these days…….!
 
The P5s maybe had a bit too long in their beds, never quite getting into top gear. Although they improved as the morning wore on, there was a little too much ground to be made up. Unfortunately the scores are not available.
 
Meanwhile the P6s came up against a "big" Ayr side in their first game. Losing ball at the breakdown, the Biggar lads were up against it and on the back foot. Although competing well, they went down 3-5. A 6-1 victory over Ardrossan put them back on course however and a 5-5 draw against Ayr in their final game was just reward for their efforts. Just a little more consistency needed.
 
The P7s also drew a blank against the hosts - again competing well, but finding the Ayr side just that bit quicker in thought and action. 2-4 it finished to Ayr. But as with the P6s, a recuperative win against Ardrossan by 5 tries to 2, put the smiles back on the Biggar squad's faces.
 
On Sunday past, swimming gear would have been much more appropriate as all the age groups hit the training fields at the same time as the wind and the rain. But credit to them and the coaches for staying out and managing to complete their sessions in such challenging conditions.    
 
This weekend - weather permitting - will see Dumfries and Moffat travelling to Hartree Mill to play at P4, P5, P6 and P7 levels. Players are asked to be at the clubhouse for 10:15am with kick-off for all games at 11:00am.
 
New Image will also commence at 11:00am, although rather than games, these players will continue their training and coaching development.
 
A reminder that the allocation of tickets for the Autumn Internationals will be taking place over the next week or so. Those still to let Keith know which games they wish to go to should do so as quickly as possible. The games at Murrayfield will feature Fiji (14th November), Australia (21st November) and Argentina (28th November).
 
And finally……..the Mini coaches have been asked to ensure that all the players in their respective squads have paid their memberships. This is particularly important for insurance purposes. If you haven't yet paid fees, please do so now and help the coaches in this important exercise.

4/10/09

Mini Update

Biggar's P4, P5, P6 and P7 squads all travelled through to Linlithgow last Sunday to take part in that Club's annual Mini Tournament. And with the sun on their backs - a very welcome change in the weather from the previous two days - the players and coaches were looking forward to a productive day's rugby.

 

The P4s performances continue to improve and although losses against Gala (3-10), hosts Linlithgow (2-7) and Falkirk (3-4) demonstrate this, the victory over Forrester by 6 tries to 2, will no doubt remain the freshest in their and their coaches' memories.

 

Biggar's P5 and P6 squads both returned with the winners' trophies and smiles as broad as Norfolk. In their first ever tournament success, the P5s saw off Forrester 9-1, beat Linlithgow 6-4 and Gala 4-2 and in their final must win game, got into double figures in beating Falkirk 10-3. The P6s conceded only one try all day in winning all their games. The home side were beaten 5-0, Gala 3-0 and in a tough final game - Forrester having no team - the locals beat Falkirk 2-1. Well done to all the players and coaches.

 

The P7s turned in yet another creditable performance and although losing a couple of their games - Linlithgow (2-4) and Falkirk (1-4) - demonstrated their potential in victories over Forrester (8-1) and Gala (5-2). Just a little bit more consistency and who knows……..

 

While all this was going on, the New Image group travelled no further than Hartreemill for their latest coaching and training session. A couple of coaches down - which was expected - Keith was understandably concerned when a third coach approached the session leaning heavily on a walking stick. A semi-dislocated knee was the diagnosis, no can help the outcome. So thanks to Michael McConkey and son Daniel for stepping in at short notice and helping out.

 

This weekend and next, all squads return to the coaching and fitness sessions everyone has been working hard at since the start of the season. As usual, all should be at the clubhouse for an 11:00am start.

 

A reminder that Club merchandise has now arrived and that it will be on sale via Keith, Aird, Nigel Pacey or Ian Notman. Come along and see what's available.

Mini Update - 27.9.09

With Moffat not travelling, Lanark were the sole visitors to Hartree Mill for the Minis last weekend. With holidays affecting player availability for the visitors, it was decided that mixed games at P4/P5 and P6/P7 age groups would be the order of the day. To ensure that all were able to participate - and recognising the different levels of skill, experience and age - the coaches agreed to play all the games as training ones. And a good move it turned out to be, as all the young players experienced something new and enjoyed themselves thoroughly during the sessions.

 

Meantime the Biggar New Image group (P1, P2 and P3) were joined by a few of their Lanark counterparts and all were put through their paces by coaches from both clubs. And if you think herding cats is difficult, think again!!

 

This Sunday sees Biggar's P4, P5, P6 and P7 sides travelling through to Linlithgow for that Club's annual Mini Tournament. A well organised event, it has been a happy hunting ground for Biggar over the last few years and without being over-confident or wishing to tempt fate, expectations are high again this year. No pressure then!

 

Kick-off is at 11:00am and all Biggar sides are asked to be at the Linlithgow ground for no later than 10:15am. Those leaving the clubhouse will do so at 9:00am.

 

As it's a tournament, player squad sizes will be limited and the coaches will be in touch to advise who will be playing on this occasion. This is an unfortunate element of tournament participation, but it's fair to say that it evens itself out before the season's end. Parents should note that the limitation on numbers applies only to tournament situations and, as this will be the last such occasion until March 2010, everyone will be in the mix again from 11th October on.

 

Those not travelling to Linlithgow will be asked to make their way to Hartree Mill where ongoing coaching and development will be available for them.

 

New Image will continue their training and coaching development with the normal 11:00am start at Hartree Mill. With Dawn making the trip to Linlithgow to see her son, Lewis, play, Keith, Kenny and Lauren will have to work even harder to keep everyone concentrating on the various exercises .

 

A reminder that Club merchandise has now arrived and that it will be on sale via Keith, Aird, Nigel Pacey or Ian Notman. Come along and see what's available.

 

 

Mini Update - 13.9.09 - The Tournament

8 clubs, 32 teams, 370 players and the same again for spectators……….yes it was the Biggar Mini Rugby Tournament last Sunday. Some say Keith Fulton, our Mini Convenor, has made a pact with the devil - all we know is that for the umpteenth year on the trot, the Tournament took place in glorious conditions with many even picking up some late summer tans! And who would have thought that just a week or so ago.

Yet again, the rugby on display was superb and whether it was the P4, P5, P6 or P7 age groups, the skills shown made everyone present feel very good about the future of Scottish rugby.

There are many people due thanks for their input - in particular though Angie Stott and the ladies in the catering team and all the referees, including Ants and the senior players deserve great credit for their unstinting efforts during the course of the day. And we shouldn't forget Club President Roy Weller, local MSP Karen Gillon, MP David Mundell and local Councillor Hamish Stewart who all came long to Hartree Mill on the day and presented the winners and runners-up with their various spoils.

All the Biggar sides competed well, but ultimately found the competition a little too strong at this stage of the season. The P4s, playing against Dalziel, Melrose and Selkirk were on the wrong end of three close results; the P5s, with three straight pool wins against Dalziel, Boroughmuir and Edinburgh Accies went down in their semi-final match against Currie; following wins against Edinburgh Accies and Melrose and a defeat by Stirling County in the pool stages, the P6s also reached the semi-final stage where they also lost out to Currie; an increasingly understrength P7 - they lost 3 or 4 players to injury during the afternoon - started with a hard fought draw against Boroughmuir and then suffered a couple of close defeats to Stirling County and Currie.

For the record the Currie club won the Tournament at P4 and P6 level with Melrose winning at P5 and P7. Melrose's P5 team also won the Airtricity Team of the Tournament award.

This coming Sunday, all the Minis - New Image to P7 - are asked to be at the clubhouse for 10:30am. Prior to training, the Player Awards for the 2008/09 season will be made with First XV coach Ants Posa doing the honours. The Awards, presented in memory of John Hair - a rugby supporter who saw the good in all players - are given not only for the level of skill a player has, but also for the level of commitment and endeavour they have shown throughout the season. Everybody's included and everyone has a chance of winning.

Training will commence at 11:00am.