The Scottish Universities rugby team responded to their loss in France by beating a very competitive England Colleges side 34-10 at the weekend.

The last time the two sides met was in 2003, when Scottish Universities won by a twenty point margin. This time, the foundation of the students’ performance was a solid defence, knocking back the English attack time after time.

Playing against a strong wind, Scottish Universities scored their opening try through flanker Stephan Dreyer. However England took the lead on 30 minutes to lead 5-7, adding a penalty two minutes later, arriving at the interval 5-10 in front.

With the wind at their backs in the second half, Scottish stand-off Euan Kelly used his boot to gain field position. The forwards began to dominate their opponents, feeding a constant supply of ball to the pacey back line.

Three points came through the boot of Fraser Lyle to cut the deficit to two points, which then led to an onslaught of Scottish tries.

Firstly Rheda Guedroudj scored in the corner following a floated cross-kick from Kelly, catching out at static defence. Then the fleet-footed James Fleming scored the pick of his two tries. A mazy run foxed the defence before he raced to the corner.

Next, man-of-the-match Dom Dunnett scored close to the posts for Lyle to convert. Fleming then pounced for his second, intercepting a loose pass to finish with ease.

Coach Chris Reekie was delighted for the players.

"Having had their collar felt in France they stepped up against a younger side who posed them problems. Scoring five tries helps build a platform of confidence, while winning gives them the feel good factor".

Reekie added, "With Irish Colleges coming on the 13th March (again at Lasswade) we must improve once more, learning to use support players when we get behind defences. I have no doubt we can compete with Irish in the physical confrontations. Our ability to distribute the ball when in space will define how we can develop further to give Irish Colleges a fantastic contest". 

Scottish Universities take on Irish Colleges at Lasswade RFC kicking off at 7.30pm on the 13th March. Entry £2 at the gate. Come along and support!

For more information please contact Jacqui, SUS Rugby Team Manager: jacqui@susport.org.uk