JEDBURGH Grammar School have booked their place in the final of the Brewin Dolphin Scottish Schools Under-16 Plate after achieving an impressive 20-8 away win over Balfron High School last week and will face the winners of the tie between Bell-Baxter High School and Wellington School in the last round, writes Alan Lorimer.
Despite playing against a side that was physically bigger, Jed were always in command. Coach Kevin Barrie said: “They had some big ball carriers but we were more organised. It’s just great to get to the final.”
Jed outscored Balfron by two tries to one, their touchdowns coming from flanker John Feeney and wing Calum Young, whose brothers play for Jed-Forest. The remainder of the points came from the boot of inside centre Robbie Yourston, who kicked two penalty goals and two conversions.
Jed’s success at under-16 level continued in the under-16 Borders league where Jed Thistle (fielding a slightly different side to Jed Grammar), defeated Melrose 14-10. The Jed youngsters begin a further campaign this weekend when they face Musselburgh in the first round of the National Youth League under 16 Cup.
Meanwhile Galashiels Academy play Madras College in the Under-18 Plate this week for a chance to meat Kelvinside Academy or Marr College in the final.
Peebles High School will be hoping for a place in the final of the Under-18 Bowl when they play Williamwood High School from East Renfrewshire in their home semi-final. Also chasing honours in the Brewin Dolphin competitions are Selkirk High School whose Under-16 Bowl semi-final will be delayed until the quarter final between Wick High School and Williamwood High School is played.
In the Girls’ under-15 cup final, Langholm will face Aucterarder after beating Carrick/Cumnock, 33-0.
All finals are due to take place on the back pitches at Murrayfield on Saturday, January 26.