LONDON SCOTTISH continued their difficult run of results as they traveled up to Caldy, searching for respite but facing off against hosts who had yet to win this season. The game proved to be a challenging encounter, marked by grit and determination from both sides as they battled for the victory
Caldy, playing on their home turf, enjoyed the added advantage of weathered conditions, which were windy and boggy throughout the match. This environment seemed to stunt London Scottish’s potential, as they struggled with possession and were wasteful at pivotal moments. The hosts capitalized early, with the opening minutes showcasing Caldy’s sharpness when their winger darted down the left side after London Scottish’s Roma Zheng missed intercepting the pass. This allowed Caldy to score the first try of the game.
Minutes later, following some back-and-forth play, another skillful kick from Caldy resulted in a penalty, extending their lead to 8-0. This wake-up call prompted some urgency from London Scottish, who dominated the field for much of the remaining first half. Yet, the Exiles managed only one score through Cam Anderson, who skillfully converted from Tom Wilstead’s chip through, leaving them trailing 8-5 at the half.
The second half saw Caldy assert their control of the match. Offensive pressure resulted in two yellow cards for London Scottish within two minutes, first to Lewis Gjaltema, then Zach Carr, prompting one-triggered penalty try for Caldy. Despite some late-game momentum for London Scottish, culminating with Zheng’s try, it proved too little too late, with the final whistle sealing another tight defeat for them.
Over at Mennaye Field, Cornish Pirates captain Kyle Steyn geared up to make his return from injury on Sunday afternoon as his team set to face Doncaster during the 1872 Cup opener. The match promises to be significant for Pirates and is marked as potentially their biggest-ever home match as they navigate Scotland’s oldest rugby rivalry.
Steyn was one of 13 internationals selected for the starting XV, making this match all the more special as it will be his first appearance since scoring during September's victory over Benetton at Scotstoun. His return injects optimism for the Pirates, who look to boost their performance as they prepare for this historic clash.
Back at Kingston Park, Newcastle Falcons’ director of rugby Steve Diamond did not hold back on his thoughts following their recent clash against Bath, which ended with Bath consolidatively beating the Falcons 40-15. Despite acknowledging Bath as the superior team, Diamond criticized their style of play and the refereeing decisions during the match, especially pointing out key moments where he felt initiatives favored the opposition.
The Falcons, who secured six points and displayed commendable skills during the first half, could not maintain their momentum, failing to score at all thereafter. Russell’s commanding presence was noted as he effectively orchestrated the Bath side, making strategic decisions and outmaneuvering direction on the field.
“The game was controlled eloquently by their number 10, who talked his way through the game,” said Diamond after the match. “And the referee listened to him.” This indicates the frustrations of teams working from the lower half of the standings seeking parity with the front runners.
Transitioning to Hampden Park, Glasgow Warriors prepared to face Edinburgh as part of the 1872 Cup series. Franco Smith, the Warriors' head coach, expressed his enthusiasm for leading the side said to be contesting before their biggest crowd yet. The game marks significant importance, not just for standings but also for instilling community spirit within the sport.
Smith believes this occasion will have lasting effects on team morale, setting the stage for upcoming competitions. He remarked on the thrill of being part of such significant rugby culture and what it signifies for the players, emphasizing their intent to focus on their gameplay strategy against their rivals.
To top off this weekend of rugby action, key milestones were hit by players across various teams. Notably, Wales center Nick Tompkins celebrated his 200th appearance for Saracens during their match against Northampton Saints. His pride was evident as he reflected on the support he received from teammates over the years, attributing his growth and stability within the team to their collective efforts and commitment.
“It is truly special and to be making my 200th appearance is something I hold dear,” said Tompkins.
On the injury front, players like Immanuel Feyi-Waboso of the Exeter Chiefs face uncertainty as he came off with dislocated shoulder concerns after Sale Sharks' match. With the Six Nations looming, his fitness will be closely monitored by head coach Steve Borthwick, showcasing the dual pressure players face.
This weekend’s fixtures rounded out with significant insights and developments across various teams within the rugby league, showcasing both the struggles and triumphs intrinsic to this season. The combination of player milestones, match analyses, and managerial perspectives framed what was yet another exciting chapter for rugby enthusiasts nationwide.
