Rugby made its long-awaited return all over Scotland last weekend.
Teams were finally back in action after a 17 month break, with friendlies played ahead of the start of the new season on September 4.
Stewartry RFC’s men’s sections have been back in training for six weeks and played their first warm-up fixture against Dumfries Saints, the Castle Douglas side joining up with Newton Stewart for the trip along the A75 to take on the National League Two side.
Fixtures between the clubs are always well contested with local bragging rights up for grabs and a good crowd gathered at Park Farm with everyone excited about being able to see some live action again.
The crowd was not to be disappointed.
Both sides had large squads and made multiple changes across four, 20 minute quarters, ensuring intensity levels remained high.
Despite the longest “off season” in memory, both teams started well with players throwing themselves into the action.
Dumfries started the stronger side, lots of probing runs and slick handling seeing them go two scores up in the first 20 minutes.
The second quarter saw the combined side fight their way back into the game with a converted score.
There was little between the teams for the remainder of the game, each side scoring well worked tries, and Dumfries running out eventual winners 19-12.
Whilst it is difficult to judge form on such early season fixtures both sides showed an impressive level of physicality and less rustiness than expected after such a long period without fixtures.
Whatever the result, everyone involved with the game was delighted to see competitive rugby back and things are looking good for the season ahead.
Stewartry continue their pre-season with their own 10 a-side tournament on Saturday.
This will be a social day at the club with teams from Cumnock, Newton Stewart, Dumfries, Stewartry, Wigtownshire and Annan competing in both the men’s and women’s competitions.
The first game will kick off at 12noon with an outdoor bar and barbecue available all day.
Spectators are welcome at what will be a great way to bring rugby back to Greenlaw.
