THERE will be no room for error for Selkirk RFC this week.
Tomorrow’s match against Watsonians is crucial to Selkirk’s survival in premier one. Currently sitting third bottom, the Souters have a three-point advantage on this weekend's visitors, and a game in hand, but a victory will put some daylight between
the two teams and could even see Selkirk jump to a more comfortable mid-table position.
And, following more interruptions due to the continuing cold snap and the international fixtures, president Donald Macleod is looking forward to getting back to league business.
He told The Wee Paper: “The team and coaches have done their very best to prepare for the match in difficult circumstances, with practice constantly being disrupted by the weather. The away match against Watsonians resulted in a high-scoring draw – 30 points each.
“Saturday should be played like a must-win cup final. I’m sure that Selkirk and the Valleys will turn out in big numbers to give the team tremendous support – the crucial 16th player who can lift the team to a win.”
Selkirk have pretty much a full squad of players to choose from this week. Lee Jones is back from Scotland sevens duty so Darren Clapperton will drop to the bench, while Rob Taylor gets a start at tighthead with Martin Murray looking to make an impact later in the game.
Commenting on the game ahead, Selkirk backs coach Michael Jaffray said: “It will be great to get back into league action this week for what is going to be a tough encounter with Watsonians. After a very competitive draw at Myreside we expect the same commitment at Selkirk this week.”
Meanwhile, Philiphaugh has received more recognition as a first-class facility by the SRU. The under-18 Scotland v France international will be played at the ground next Sunday, March 14, with a 3pm kick-off.
To mark the Calcutta Cup match next Saturday, March 13, 20 years after Scotland’s 1990 Grand Slam victory, former Selkirk winger Iwan Tukalo, who starred in the winning team, will speak at the club’s Friday lunch on March 12. Members and non-members, ladies and gentlemen, are all welcome. Tickets are available from Alan Seal, Billy Bryson and Mary Inglis.
Saturday: Selkirk 2nds v Kelso 2nds (2pm); Selkirk v Watsonians (3pm).
