Agonising defeat for Annan

ANNAN suffered a heartbreaking single point defeat away to Dalziel on Saturday in West One.

The Black and Amber lost out 40-39 after missing a kick in the final moments of the game.

Dalziel Park has never been a happy hunting ground for Annan and after 20 mins Annan were 12-0 down and staring down the barrel of defeat.

But Annan hit back and by half time the lads had taken a 14-12 lead.

An Aaron Carmichael try was followed by a try from youngster Rohan Cother, both were covered by the boot of the Josh Whiteside and the half ended with the away team on top.

Early in the second half Josh hit a successful penalty to increase the lead further.

And it got even better as on the 50 minute mark when Bradley James crashed over, with Josh converting.

However, the home side got back into the game not long after and it was 19-24 and all to play for.

But the away side scored next. Vice captain Kieran Warrick with one of his trademark tries, Josh converted.

It was then 19-34 as the home side’s discipline let them down and Josh happily accepted an easy three points.

The home side hit back once again though and with about 12 minutes to go it was 26-34, then with seven to go it was 33-34.

Annan ended up down to 13 after two yellows. And the home side pressure meant another converted try with just one minute to go and Dalziel led 40-34

But Annan were not finished, Rohan added his second try to make it 40-39. Then it was all down to Josh, but his kick agonisingly just missed and that is how it ended.

Two points were gained but it will feel like three points dropped.

Elsewhere, the 2nd XV’s scheduled fixture at home to Hillhead Jordanhill was cancelled after the visitors were unable to field a team.

Moffat’s clash at home to Hyndland was also postponed for the same reason.

And it was a bad day at the office for the Annan Warriors on Sunday as they went down 25-0 to Lenzie Ladies, bringing to an end their slim promotion ambitions.

Positive news, however, the Warriors will now definitely be in the National Plate competition early next year and will get a chance to defend their title.

This weekend UP at Violetbank on Saturday, the 1st XV welcome leaders Strathaven in West Division One, kick off is at 3 pm.

Meanwhile, the 2nd XV are on the road to Marr, 3 pm; Moffat Rams travel to play Loch Lomond/Helensburgh in West Three; and the U18 Annan/Moffat Boys take on Garnock at the Holm, 2 pm. On Sunday Annan Warriors visit Marr for a West Division Two clash.