THE SCOTSMAN REVEALS

Published Date: 01 October 2009
HERIOT'S rugby coach Bob McKillop appears ready to give an extended run to new signing Max Nimmo when the Capital outfit bid to make it three Scottish Hydro Premiership wins in a row at Glasgow Hawks on Saturday, writes BILL LOTHIAN.
In following up a win at Boroughmuir with success at home to Edinburgh Accies, the Goldenacre outfit blooded 22-year-old former Newcastle University ace, Nimmo. McKillop said: "Max joined us 10 days ago and can resume a partnership he enjoyed during schooldays with Richard Mill when he returns from injury."

Although stricken by injuries in some positions Heriot's are able to add depth in others and two newcomers figured on the bench against Accies.

Covering scrum-half was Richard Tran, who has fought his way up through the reserve ranks while Bill Auld has returned from travelling during a gap year after leaving the crack Dollar Academy team and will be chasing a full back spot.

Meanwhile, new back row recruit Mike Maltman continues to earn plaudits after a glory try against Accies. Paying tribute, McKillop referred to past Scottish grand slam heroes saying: "There was something reminiscent of Iain Paxton and Fin Calder about the way Mike ran 95 yards for his try holding off the cover defence including an opposing winger.

"Mike went all the way to the try-line without changing his running style."

In plotting a hat-trick of victories McKillop is likely to draw on past coaching experiences at Hawks who are likely to include ex-Zimbabwe star Ian Noble in the back line.

"I coached Ian when I was at Stirling County and not only is he a smart player but also a great competitor," added McKillop who also noted Hawks' promising young stand-off, Duncan Weir.

This article was posted on 2-Oct-2009, 07:43 by Hugh Barrow.