Men's 1st XV - Lenzie
Oban Lorne men's final home match of the season saw them take on second-placed Lenzie on a wet afternoon at Glencruitten. Despite a 26-59 defeat, the men in green and red showed great heart and determination against a strong and well-organised Lenzie side.
Oban went into the match missing several regular players due to injuries and other commitments, with the long and disrupted season taking its toll. Even so, the squad put in a spirited performance and refused to give up despite the challenges.
The home forwards were outstanding throughout, dominating the scrum and putting real pressure on Lenzie at set piece. However, Oban were slightly short of numbers in the backs, and against arguably the strongest backline in the league, Lenzie were able to capitalise with slick hands and pace out wide.
Lenzie started the stronger of the two sides, scoring five unanswered tries to race into a 0-33 lead. Their sharp and organised attacking play showed exactly why they challenged league winners Kilmarnock at the top of the table and remain the only team to have beaten them this season.
Oban responded with real character. Chris Peck scored the home side’s first try after sustained pressure, followed by a strong finish from Calum MacLachlan to bring the score to 14-33. Lenzie added further scores as the game progressed, but Oban kept battling, with MacLachlan crossing for his second try to close the gap to 21-45.
Unfortunately, injuries began to mount, and Oban were reduced to 14 players, then 13 for the final stages. A serious injury to Tim Awbery midway through the second half added to the disruption, but the team continued to fight with real resilience.
Despite the disadvantage, Oban finished strongly, with Bruce Wilmer scoring a late try to round off the afternoon at 26-59.
While the result didn’t fall their way, Oban Lorne showed tremendous pride and commitment across the park. They now look ahead to their final game of the season — away to East Kilbride on Saturday 10th May. Everyone at the club sends their best wishes to Tim following his serious injury. It serves as a reminder of the risks players take every time they step onto the field in this often brutal sport, but also highlights the bravery, commitment, and spirit that makes rugby so special.
