Stroll for Strathaven

Sep 10 2009 by Andrew McGilvray, Hamilton Advertiser

STRATHAVEN top the Scottish Hydro West League Division Two table following this emphatic win over Cowal at Whiteshawgate.

Cowal kicked off in light rainy conditions that led to lots of handling mistakes by both sides and a lack of numbers at a breakdown saw Strathaven concede an early penalty, which was duly converted.

Strathaven’s response was to tear straight into the Cowal 22 and score a converted try under the posts.

Cowal hit back with a penalty but that was to be the last of their points on the day, as Strathaven swamped their visitors, sealing a bonus point before half-time.

With the points secured, Strathaven made a number of changes at the break, giving the bench a good run-out, and a few more tries followed.

Strathaven managed to give league debuts to six of last year’s under-18 players.

Strathaven’s scorers were Stuart Alder (3), Lenny Allen, Gary Thornton, Willie Steele and Duncan Simpson, with Allen adding two conversions and a penalty to his tally.

Next up for Strathaven is a difficult match at Moffat. Kick-off is at 3pm.

l West Division Two newcomers Clydesdale’s opener at home to McLaren FP was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.