The sun (mostly) shone for our long trek north to face Highland RFC in the Shogun Conference. The boys were strangely (?) subdued for our 07.45 meet, but soon the 'craic' started to come to the fore after a pit stop in Pitlochry.

Highland RFC have superb new facilities at Canal Park and both teams seem to enjoy the occasion and the 3G pitch. Flowing rugby was the name of the game and the Chieftains showed a superb level of structure in the face of a well-drilled and skillful Highland outfit.

With the injury count rising (our loss is commentating's gain with Armsworth and Hogg (aka Statler and Waldorf!)) the boys showed great commitment despite a series of knocks and bumps which risked concentration. However, the resilience of the boys came to the fore.

The game was high scoring and covering the whole game would be difficult. In the end it was 14 tries to 2 with the Chieftains slotting over 9 conversions. The try scorers were Cullen (3), Bowman (2 - first of the season!), Gent (2), Hunter (2), Anderson, Cavens, Ensaff (first of the season!), Laidlaw (again, first of the season), Lynes, MacLean, O'Donnell and Mr Pen. McCallum converted 5 goals and Crombie two.

Man of the match, as nominated by the players, was Brendon Bowman. James Donoghue picked up attacker of the match and Daniel Maroto-Andresen was defender of the match. Well done boys.

The trip hope, via a fast-food healthy eating stop and collection of walking wounded, was long, hot, but good fun. The 'chat' from the back of the bus was eye-opening.... nay, popping!

Many thanks to Highland RFC players, coaches, referee and volunteers for their sport and hospitality.