Cartha QP v Melrose

Cartha QP v Melrose Sat 22nd Jan 2022

The match took place in dry conditions with an overcast sky. There was some dampness in the air giving a generally a raw feel to the day. When the teams took the field it was immediately obvious that the ref players and supporters would have considerable difficulty distinguishing one team from the other because especially from the rear the strips were really difficult to tell apart. Quite clearly a change strip for CQP would have been appropriate.

Melrose kicked off and CQP conceded a penalty. The ball was directed into touch and Melrose took their own ball and mauled CQP up and over their line to score in the corner. The try was not converted but CQP were off to the worst possible start. As the game progressed it became clear that Melrose back division was operating smoothly and they steadily built up a lead achieving their try bonus before halftime. In response all CQP had to show was a try by Jacob Adamson achieved as a result of a through kick into the Melrose in goal area.

There was never any doubt as to which team would emerge victorious in this game.

The final score of 43-7 was probably a fair reflection of the game. The score could have been even higher but for some determined CQP defence. As the game approached its conclusion Calum Dickson sustained a bad injury to his cruciate ligament which lead to him being escorted off the field. From the touchline it looked as though he should have been stretchered off.

Prior to the conclusion of this game CQP lost two players to the bin while Melrose lost one.

FT CQP 7 Melrose 43.

This was the third game in a row in which CQP were facing a super six club. The super six league has been concluded and one is left to speculate as to the playing situation of those players who were contracted to play super six rugby. CQP took the field for this game minus the services of first pick half backs Tam Davidson and Wayne Burrows.

Next up next Saturday is Biggar. CQP will need to play much better against them if they are to pick up any league points.