Stornoway regain winning feeling to down Fort William

It’s been well documented that the island side have lost a number of first team players over the summer but this win and despite losses in their first two games, has been hugely encouraging for the coaches.

Losing to Elgin outfit Moray RFC, in the opening week, was no shock but the performance from a depleted Stornoway side, left all that watched it full of praise and encouragment.

This was followed by a home loss to RAF Lossiemouth, although a 29-5 score line didn’t tell the full story.

Stornoway started poorly, and the visitors ran in 3 early scores, while Richard Macleod crossed for Stornoway.

The home side enjoyed much of the ball but were unable to turn possession in to points and the visitors ran in two more late scores, to put an unfair gloss on an evenly fought contest.

And so to Stornoway’s third game of the season. The visitors were Fort William side Lochaber and despite travelling with a weakened side, they made it extremely hard for Stornoway on the day.

Despite this, Stornoway managed to run in eight tries, with four conversions.

Two each from Darren Beattie and Calum Nicolson, while Jeff MacDonald, Paul Afrin, Angus Williams and veteran Davy Graham all crossed the line and the extra points were added by Dean Drummond.

It’s been a hugely encouraging start to the season, considering that 5-6 weeks ago the side were looking at the possibility of withdrawing from the league.

Another positive, is the introduction of some younger players and it’s fair to say they will be much needed later in the season.

Stornoway now have a week away from competition and will look to build on last weeks win, in preparation for their next match away to Ross Sutherland on the 24th.