16's Boys - Whitecraigs

Whitecraigs 25 Oban 5

Oban travelled to Newton Mearns on Sunday 15th March to compete in the West Regional Shield Semi Final against Whitecraigs in a match heavily influenced by the cold, windy and wet conditions.

Oban kicked off into the strong wind and rain/hail/sleet and quickly found themselves on the defensive as the home side used the conditions well to gain field position and launch a number of attacks.

Despite the sustained pressure, Oban defended valiantly throughout a challenging first half, with Lachie D'Arcy, Jake Jevons, Samuel Harden and Felix Hughes leading the defensive effort. This defensive determination kept the scoreline respectable at half time, with Whitecraigs leading 20-0

With the elements now in their favour, Oban begun the second half determined to get back into the game. Strong carries from Eachaan Louw and D'Arcy in the forwards helped generate momentum, while James Blomfield and Harden looked dangerous in the backs. Resulting in a great try for Harden, 20-5.

However, the difficult conditions continued to disrupt Obans attacking intentions, with the slippery ball leading to handling errors at key moments.

Despite this Oban dominated the much of the remainder of the match, creating a number of try scoring opportunities which unfortunately they were unable to convert into points.

The final score of the game came from the host, making the final score 25-5.

Despite the result, Oban showed great resilience and determination in very difficult conditions. Man of the match was winger Felix Hughes for his outstanding tackling and composure under the high ball in testing conditions.

The boys will now play in the Plate Final, away to Ardossan, on either 22/3 or 29/3.