By Gary Heatly
Stewart's Melville College’s rugby teams had an unforgettable day at Murrayfield Stadium during the Scottish Schools Cup Final. The U16 and 1st XV teams both showcased their sports talents and drive on the big stage, resulting in a brilliant victory for the 1st XV team, and a show of determination and team spirit from our U16s. Here's a recap of both games and the memorable moments of the day.
1st XV Win Against Merchiston Castle School
The 1st XV team capped off a dramatic evening by winning the Scottish Schools Cup 28-24 against Merchiston Castle School. The game was full of excitement, with eight tries and plenty of momentum swings throughout.
Stewart's Melville got off to a quick start, leading 14-0 within the first six minutes. Centre Callum Jessop, who was later named player of the match, scored the opening try, which was converted by stand-off Howie Offord. Loosehead prop James Page followed up with another try, with Offord adding the extras.
Merchiston responded strongly, scoring two converted tries to level the game at 14-14. However, a yellow card for Merchiston saw Stewart's Melville take full advantage. Second-row Mark Berroya and Page both scored converted tries, giving them a 28-14 lead at halftime. Merchiston fought back in the second half with two unconverted tries, bringing the score to 28-24, but Stewart’s Melville held on for the win.
Captain Howie Offord reflected on the victory, saying, “The feeling is unbelievable. After losses to Merchiston and George Watson’s earlier in the season, it’s a testament to the boys and our mentality that we came back strong to win this game against a very good opponent. We managed those momentum swings well, and the support we had was incredible.”
ESMS Head of Rugby, Mr Stuart Edwards, praised the team’s resilience in difficult conditions. “They played smart rugby at times and did the job against a strong side. This win is a result of hard work from the entire squad, as well as the dedication of our coaching team, Mr Gregor Wood and Mr Hayden Lingard.”
U16 Final Against George Watson’s College
Earlier in the day, the U16 team faced George Watson's College in their Scottish Schools Cup Final. Despite putting in a valiant effort, the U16s lost 34-10. Winger Cameron Spowart and loosehead prop Duncan Anderson both scored tries for Stewart's Melville, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the strong opposition.
Coach Joe Ansbro, former Scotland player, commended the team's determination:
“There was a lot of grit and determination shown by the boys, and they can be proud of that. We knew we needed a full 70-minute performance, and while we had our moments, it wasn’t enough on the day. But the boys will have learned so much from this experience.”
While the result wasn’t what they had hoped for, the U16s thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to play at Murrayfield. This experience will undoubtedly motivate them to return to the stadium in future years, ready to compete at the highest level.
