Men's 1st XV - Strathaven
Oban Lorne faced Strathaven on a dreary, rain-soaked day, with numbers reduced due to injuries and unavailability. In true rugby spirit, players from Mull RFC and Mid Argyll RFC stepped up to help out, showing that the values and camaraderie of rugby are alive and well on the West Coast.
Strathaven made a fast start, racking up four unanswered tries through powerful forward carries and relentless aggression. Their early dominance put Oban on the back foot, and they soon found themselves down 0-31.
Oban Lorne responded with determination and grit, and their patience paid off when Fergus "Young Boots" Taylor crossed the line to get them on the scoreboard. Calum MacLachlan followed with another try, closing the gap as Oban’s momentum started to build. Strathaven responded with a try of their own, though Oban quickly struck back with Malcolm MacIntyre powering over the line, making it clear they weren’t ready to give up.
Sensing the momentum shift, Strathaven opted for a penalty to keep their lead steady, though the pressure from Oban continued. Murray MacDonald from Mid Argyll RFC contributed next, driving over for another try to bring Oban closer. Blair MacFarlane added one final try, showing Oban’s fighting spirit right to the end.
Although Strathaven emerged victorious, the second-half surge from Oban Lorne showed impressive resilience and team spirit. It was a hard-fought match, and the support from Mull and Mid Argyll RFC players reinforced the strong rugby values in the area.
