The 2025–26 season will go down as a landmark campaign for Corstorphine Cougars RFC, as the Men’s 1st XV secured the Arnold Clark East Region League Division 2 title in impressive and hard-earned fashion beating Hawick Harlequins 59-0 in their final game.

Despite an early hiccup against Hawick Harlequins where Corstorphine lost 37-36 after conceding a last minute try, from the outset, the Cougars set the tone with a series of strong performances that quickly established them as genuine contenders. Early statement victories, including a commanding win over Penicuik and a high-scoring away win against Earlston, showcased the squad’s attacking firepower and depth.

Early on it became apparent that Livingston would be the team to chase down and after going to Almond Park and drawing 34-34 it gave the team further belief that they were serious title contenders.

This new found belief and consistency wasn’t by accident. Head Coach Gavin Blackburns leadership has been a key factor in the Cougars’ league-winning campaign. Gavin’s focus on player development and team cohesion has been invaluable which helped the team find consistency in their performances.

Consistency in availability and selection has also been a key factor with a fairly settled squad and regular key performances from Rueben Green, Sam Wynn, Callum Paterson, Harry Grierson, Paul Strachan and Adam Pilkington to name a few. All ably Captained by Donald Miller and latterly Lochlan Morris & Taylah Muru King.

A dominant forward set piece has been the cornerstone of the performances with the scrum providing a stable platform to attack from while a solid line out has been consistant in disrupting opposition ball. As Gavin has commented several times it’s very rare to have a pack that’s filled with ball carriers.

The consistency of Muru-Kings boot in front of the posts and finding touch has been significant. The backs have been excellent in attack proving a threat from anywhere on the park and have been aggressive in defence.

The overarching feeling is that it’s been a squad performance throughout the season with every single player contributing.

With Royal High’s ejection from the league and their results removed, Livingston now found themselves in second and doing the chasing. A tricky trip to Earlston saw them slip.

With games running out it was clear that the result of the home game against Livingston would all but hand the title to one or other. One of the big defining moments of the campaign came in this crucial encounter as Adam Pilkington coolly slotted a last minute penalty securing a 16-13 win.

Across the campaign, the Cougars combined attacking ambition with defensive discipline. Finishing with 10 wins, one draw and just a single defeat, Corstorphine’s consistency and ability to hold their nerve ultimately proved decisive.

The achievement is a testament to the collective effort across the club — from players and coaches to volunteers and supporters — and marks a significant milestone in the Cougars’ continued progress. The 2025–26 season will be remembered as the year belief, resilience and teamwork brought league silverware back to Corstorphine.