Redskins' feathers ruffled by on-song Selkirk

THE bigger crowds might have been on the other side of the Mansfield Haugh fence watching Hawick's Prem. 1 clash against Melrose, but without doubt the most free-flowing rugby was to be found in Saturday's friendly between Hawick YM and Selkirk 2nds.

At the end of the day it was the clinical finishing of the visitors' threequarters which proved the difference between the two sides, with all five of Selkirk's tries being scored by backs.

Senior player Fraser Harkness made a welcome guest appearance for Selkirk, running in two tries in a typically power-packed performance, as well as combining well with fellow centre Ross Nixon, who continues to show real promise and is improving with every outing.

The visitors' other tries came from Bruce Armstrong (2) and Struan Jack, with Jamie Lyall adding a penalty and four conversions. Special mention must go to young Ryan Jaffray for a gutsy display at hooker, while the re-appearance of Chris Kemp after the break following a long lay-off was a definite bonus.

Hawick YM's players never let their heads drop despite being 22-3 down at halftime, but must have realised they were well and truly sunk when the visitors' responded to their supporters' Red October call: 'Hunt & Destroy'…

SELKIRK - B. Armstrong, S. Jack, F. Harkness, R. Nixon, J. Lyall, M. Jaffray, F. Jack, J. Stephens, R. Jaffray, R. Price, K. Connor, S. Renwick, A. Millar, J. Ross, C. Johnston. Replacements - T. Walling, S. Morrow, S. Rodgerson, M. Rodgerson, C. Kemp, G. MacDougall.

Referee - P. Lindsay (Walkerburn).

HARKY THE HERALD ANGELS SING. There's no stopping Selkirk's Fraser Harkness as he breaks clear from under his own posts in Saturday's match against Hawick YM at Mansfield Haugh. (Picture: Grant Kinghorn)