Whitecraigs disappointed after defeat to Dalziel

AN interception try decided the hotly anticipated top of the table clash between Whitecraigs and Dalziel on Saturday.

The West Lodge side travelled to the league leaders' patch knowing that a win would have drawn them level on points.

But in a bruising encounter, which was recorded for Scottish Rugby TV, it was Dalziel who came out on top after an entertaining and nerve racking afternoon.

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Head coach Jim Henderson said: "We had about eighty-five per cent of the possession but the penalty count killed us.

"We were never out of their ten metre area but they intercepted one ball and scored.

"It was a good game though and they are a good team.

"The boys are all disappointed because we just could not convert our chances."

The day started with a minutes silence as a mark of respect for 'the voice of rugby' Bill McLaren, who sadly passed away last week.

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After a timid opening to the match, with both sides trying to kick their way into the danger zone, it was Dalziel who slotted an easy penalty from in front of the posts to open the scoring.

Ferocious defence meant it was difficult for either team to get into any rhythm, but when a late tackle on Kieran Eddy resulted in a yellow card the travelling supporters thought Craigs might take advantage of the extra man.

It was not to be though, with Dalziel stretching their advantage thanks to another successful penalty before Ally Stevenson added a penalty to bring the scores to 6-3 at the interval.

The key moment of the match came just minutes into the second half when Craigs were pushing hard to breach the resolute home defence.

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But as Stevenson tried to force the breakthrough his slack pass was intercepted by second row Andy Hill who ran the length of the pitch to score the crucial try.

Two missed penalties by Stevenson followed and as the minutes ticked away it was clear that Dalziel had done enough for victory.

Fabulous wing play by Graeme Fisher put Craigs back in Dalziel territory and a penalty from Stevenson concluded the day's scoring at 11-6, at least ensuring a losing bonus point for Craigs.

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