Playing on the main pitch in front of a good - sized crowd, this was the first competitive 15-a-side game for the youngsters from Lewis and how they enjoyed it!

Against a slightly younger but more experienced Highland team, they scored three tries and another couple would have been just reward for their hard work.

Second row and Captain Alastair Macleod notched two excellent tries while centre Jeff Macdonald capped a determined display with a touch-down following a good period of pressure.

Full back Calum Mackinnon converted one try and provided one of the moments of the day with a last ditch tackle to save a certain try.

Highland were adept at moving the ball wide at every opportunity and had the edge in pace on the wings, which proved very hard to combat on the big pitch.

By the end of the 60 minutes they had scored nine tries (which are worth three points at this level) and converted four of these.
A number of tries originated from their half-backs who cleverly brought their centres and wingers into the game.

No 12 Patrick Kelly proved a real handful in the centre and scored two fine tries.

Although they realised early on that Highland were more experienced and quicker, the Lewis lads never stopped tackling and produced some excellent periods of continuity, with Ali Macleod and big Calum John Macdonald providing a stirring lead.

No 6 Murdo Macdonald and centre Ben Woods deserve a mention for their work rate and appetite for tackling.

Coaches Sean Stephen, Donnie Graham and Iain Macleod were delighted with the attitude of their young charges both on and off the field.

The boys and the coaches will have learned a lot from the whole experience and it is hoped that Highland will pay a return visit later in the year.

Training sessions for the 12-14 age group take place at the Smith Avenue pitch on Saturdays from 10am – 12 noon.

Newcomers are always welcome.

HIGHLAND U-14 31- 10 NICOLSON/STORNOWAY U-14

S Duncan, C J Macdonald, B Woods, M Nicolson, J Macdonald, E Mackinnon , P Afrin, A Macleod (Capt), D Campbell, C Cowan, M Macdonald, K Piotrowski, C J Mackinnon