(apologies for the late posting of this report!

After performing our main role of supporting the firsts with players going up we fielded a strong team but didn’t manage a full bench. The Cougars scored early with Euan running round his opposite number with ease, Dunfie responded with a penalty and then a converted try on 11 minutes - game on!! As with last week the Cougar defence was absolutely top notch with some real kamikaze tackling. Dunfi has some really big guys who took short balls at speed but the Brothers defence knocked them back almost every time.
On 36 mins Euan got his second after a fine move out of defence. Half time 10 - 10

After several phases and great ball retention Ben crashed over for a converted try. However the opposition once again pegged us back with a penalty.

Those of us on the touch line though this was going to be another Linlithgow but the guys on the park thought otherwise!

After many attempts by the forwards to get over the line from one foot Sparky found enough daylight to sneak over.
But Dunfermline were not in a Festive mood responding with a try from their man of the match wing forward who left several of our backs in his wake as he went over for a converted try.

Both teams had victory in their sights and either team could have snatched the points in the last 10 minutes. Dunfi got frustrated with our forwards ability to retain possession and transgressed giving Sparky the opportunity to pop over a penalty which was the final score.
Dunfermline 20 - RHC Cougars 25

Man of the match Grant (the hammer) Henderson

Particular mention has to go to the guys who were carrying injuries before and during the game for putting in a fantastic effort. We were unable to use the bench to spell some of our more mature athletes as we normally try to do.

The Dunfermline hospitality was excellent and our players mixed in for pints and a chat, their President made a wee speech congratulation us on our performance and wishing us all the best for the Festive season, Doug replied on behalf of our Club.
The bus stopped at the Ship Inn, Limekilns to toast Alister Patterson. The singing on the way home was classic!

Report by WGS Taylor