Wigtownshire RFC 14–14 Cumbernauld RFC
Arnold Clark West Regional League 2

If it’s bucketing rain and there’s a draw on the scoreboard, chances are Cumbernauld are in town. Saturday at London Road was no different, as Shire and the “Badgers” once again couldn’t be separated, finishing 14–14 in a match that mirrored last year’s nail-biter.

First Half – Shire Strike First

The heavens opened early and never let up, but Shire got off to the brighter start. Camped on the Cumbernauld line after a string of penalties, the forwards battered away without reward until Andrew McAuley changed the script. Instead of running straight into their biggest man, he spotted a half-gap and dived over for the opener.

Cumbernauld responded in kind, their centre cutting through the defence to level things up. From there, the visitors leaned on their maul, while Shire’s backs looked threatening whenever handling was possible.

Half-time score: 7–7.

Second Half – Déjà Vu

Shire edged ahead after stand-off Neil Forsyth bravely carried back into the pack, setting the stage for replacement Jason McKie to pick and drive over from close range. With the conversion slotted, Shire led 14–7 and looked in control.

But with just two minutes left, the Badgers lived up to their name. Phase after phase on the Shire line ended with them burrowing over for a late try. All eyes turned to the touchline kick—memories of last year when they missed to win. This time, despite the swirling wind, the ball sailed over to make it 14–14 at full-time.

Man of the Match

Vice-captain Angus McClymont was outstanding all afternoon. Switching from flanker to number 8, he tackled himself to a standstill and led by example in defence. A proper dogged shift.

What’s Next

Shire now turn their focus to next Saturday, when they travel to Kilmacolm to face Birkmyre. Another tough battle awaits!

Shire Team: B Forsyth, R McAuley, B Gilliland, S Forsyth, B Burnett, N Forsyth, A Ingram, M Pirrie, I Allan, A McAuley, B Sharples, O Kelly, J McConnell, S McCauley, A McClymont.
Subs: J Dalrymple, J McKie, A Slavin, A Dunbar, J Rennie, N Loughrey, T Scott