Wigtownshire RFC’s promotion dreams were dashed on the final day of the Arnold Clark West Regional League 2 season, as a determined Strathendrick outfit completed their unbeaten campaign with a 25-7 victory in a fiercely contested match.

On a damp morning that thankfully dried up ahead of kick-off, the stakes could not have been higher for the home side. Having only suffered one defeat all season — at the hands of Strathendrick earlier in the campaign — the equation was simple: Wigtownshire needed a win and four tries to leapfrog Carrick RFC and secure the second promotion spot. Anything less would see Carrick through.

The first 30 minutes were a tense, tactical battle. Both teams struggled to break the deadlock, with Strathendrick’s reliable boot slotting two penalties to give them a 6-0 lead. Despite the deficit, Shire knew they still had to chase the elusive four tries.

In the 31st minute, controversy erupted. Strathendrick appeared to have scored, only for the referee to judge the ball as held up. Heated protests from Strathendrick’s No.8 earned him a yellow card, and within two minutes, the visitors were reduced to 13 men after a deliberate knock-on brought a second yellow. Wigtownshire sniffed an opportunity but couldn't convert the numerical advantage before halftime.

With the game still finely poised, head coach John Dalrymple shuffled his deck, bringing on replacements both tactically and to cover injuries. The breakthrough finally came from Neil Forsyth — who had shifted from full back to scrum-half — when he showed quick thinking and sharp footwork to tap a penalty from 20 metres out and dance through the defence for a try. It was a moment of magic in a tough match, and a fitting reward for Forsyth's adaptability and spirit.

However, that would be Wigtownshire's only score. Sandwiched between their lone try were three clinical Strathendrick tries, which not only sealed the victory but also confirmed their perfect league record for the season. The final whistle blew on a 25-7 defeat, leaving Wigtownshire to settle for a hard-earned third place, having lost just twice all season.

The day was tinged with extra emotion as it also marked the end of an era. Head coach John Dalrymple and captain Jason McKie — both instrumental figures in Wigtownshire’s resurgence — bowed out of their roles, moving on to new challenges within the club structure. McKie, leading by example throughout the game, was named Leswalt Village Store Man of the Match for his tireless effort and leadership.

Reflecting on the season, Dalrymple said:
"Disappointed not to have got the result we were looking for to secure promotion, however it shouldn’t take anything away from what’s been a fantastic season for such a young group. Proud of all the work everyone has put in, and hopefully this is just the beginning for this squad."

Despite the loss, the sense around Wigtownshire is one of optimism — with a talented, youthful core ready to push on and build towards future success.

Wigtownshire RFC Team:
M McColm, A McMillan, S Forsyth, J McKie (c), N Loughrey, B Forsyth, N Forsyth, A McAuley, I Allan, M Pirrie, B Sharples, S Mitchell, A McClymont, S McAuley, J McGarvie.

Replacements:
G Dunlop, F Cameron, A Paxton, J McConnell, F Fisher, K Smith, B Burnett