Title contenders beat Annan

THE 1st XV went down 27-20 to Carrick at Violetbank last Saturday in a great advert for West One rugby. Carrick were never behind in the contest, but the home side kept on pinning the visitors back for spells in the game — and the Ayrshire team did enough to take the points. Annan’s points came from Juan Phyfer — single try, Aaron Carmichael — two tries and from the boot of Josh Whiteside. The 1st XV return to action on Saturday January 10 away to Greenock Wanderers. Also at Violetbank, the 2nd XV lost 32-0 to table topping West of Scotland. The hosts started well as they played against a strong wind. Captain Dix led from the front with sniping runs and cheeky tap penalties. The front row of Wilson, Mackay and Armstrong were impressive at scrum time and the second row of Hodgson and (MOM) Nicholson provided plenty of power. The back row of Smith, Vivers and Morrison were everywhere. The tackling was solid and fly half McGreevy took all the right options. No daft passes and moving the ball when opportunities arose. Late on West did score two unconverted tries. But they had to work hard for it. In the second half the weather conditions favoured Annan and hopes were high. Unfortunately Dix then took a knock and Annan did not have another back to put on the pitch. Alan Rae was moved to scrum half and Drew Thorburn tried his hand at full back. Another injury meant James Wilkinson found himself on the wing. The visitors ran in another four tries with one converted to give a full time score of 32-0. The team can now enjoy Christmas and New Year before their next league match on January 10 away to Allan Glens.