Banff RFC beaten by well organised Highland side
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Banff RFC 7 Highland RFC second XV 35
Banff RFC's men's side fell to defeat against a well organised Highland RFC second XV side on Saturday at Duff House.
Banff shuffled the starting line-up, with a debut for young Banff player Jack Green at centre plus the appearance of not one but three Swaffields on the team sheet as young Callum joined his dad and uncle on the team sheet.
Banff had a strong start to the match and controlled possession and territory with good carrying from Sean and Nico Clark and kicking from Gordon Robertson and Jordan Risdon.
Despite being in control of the match for the best part of half an hour, Banff were to go behind as Highland sprung to life and scored in the corner before doubling their advantage with a score on the other wing.
Not to be deterred, Banff went back to basics and through strong work from Richard Rees and Ben Collins, they entered the Highland 22.
It was from there that Robertson hit the powerful Ewan Shearer who shrugged off two defenders to score a great try. Jordan Risdon knocked over the conversion to bring Banff back to within seven points.
Banff's backs were kept busy in defence and Callum Swaffield, Mark Fullbrook and Michael Golebiewski returned kicks well under pressure.
Battlers Les Milne and Robbie Stuart also carried well when Banff were in possession.
The second half was a different story, however, as Highland took more of a hold of the game, utilising their skilful backs and they scored another try through their centre.
Banff managed to hold up a Highland player over the line to save a try, with John and Jimmy Swaffield involved.
Angus Swan was inches from an intercept at one point and Ben Collins had a great hit on the Highland full back, but Highland scored two great tries late on through their backs to leave the final score 35-7.
The match day sponsor was Barrels and Botanicals and the ball sponsor Neil Mckenzie Joinery.
