SELKIRK YOUTH CLUB hit the ground running in their Border Cup campaign last weekend, with a 34-3 away victory over Duns Colts.
Not only did the win earn the young Souters a quarter-final tie against Melrose, but the game also doubled up as a league match and consolidated their position in the top section.
Taking time to settle, Youth Club were put under pressure at the start of the game and allowed their hosts to set up camp in their own 22 for some time. It was only some desperate defending that prevented them from taking the lead.
Gradually, however, the visitors worked their way to the opposite end of the field with forwards and backs combining well. After 15 minutes the Youth Club were edging towards the Duns try line when a quick penalty was taken, with Philip Anderson crashing over to score and Darren Knox converting.
Now playing with confidence, the Youth Club picked up the pace, with Jack Elliot and Callum Turnbull both finding space to crash over.
Duns got themselves on the scoresheet with a penalty, but with half-time approaching,Selkirk split Duns apart with some quick passing and winger Hamish Robinson touched down in the corner to take their lead to 22-5 at the break.
That lead was increased after the restart with Bruce Riddell powering over. Duns did not give up and caused a few uncomfortable moments, but they were kept at bay and Selkirk added one more try, courtesy of Turnbull, who split open the Duns defence to score his second touchdown of the day, with Knox converting.
The frantic pace continued right to the end of what proved to be an entertaining game for the travelling support.
Tomorrow, the Youth Club are at home in the Border Cup quarter-final against Melrose Wasps, kick-off 12.30pm.