Accies travelled to a sodden Inverness yesterday minus 7 regulars, 5 at weddings, Jack Walker injured last week and Dougie Horner calling off at the last moment as his partner had gone into early labour. They came up against a highly organised and destructive Highland pack and a back division with three South Seas military personnel. Although they held their own in the first half and were twice in the lead Highland were up 22-18 at the break. Accies tries were scored by Stuart Low and Ali McLaren. Ali also kicked a conversion and two good penalties.
In the second half Accies forwards were overwhelmed and leaked two more tries and an unfortunate interception when they were in a scoring position. In the last 10 minutes they fought back bravely and pinned Highland in their own 22 but despite being awarded seven penalties in a row could not force a way through a tight defence.
The game was marred by a succession of high tackles some of which were dangerous. This resulted in only one yellow card. There could and probably should have been more.
Accies players have to be praised for keeping their cool under such provocation.
Four players were involved in the 1st XV for the first time. Andrew Brown and, replacement, Fraser Ross, both wingers and Ewan Duncan and Jamie Robertson both in the second row. All acquitted themselves well in the circumstances and will no doubt feature again as the season progresses.
Accies are now in fifth spot in the league and will need to catch the front runners soon if the goal of promotion is to be achieved.
Next Saturday Allan Glens are the visitors to New Anniesland. The kick off is at 3pm
The Sponsors Lunch is being held on 23rd October. If you have not applied or responded to the invitation, please, contact Alasdair Graham as soon as possible.

This article was posted on 19-Sep-2010, 13:09 by Hugh Barrow.