Rugby Union: Strathmore end Rosyth Sharks' winning run

ROSYTH SHARKS saw their three-match winning run brought to an end as they fell to defeat against Strathmore seconds on Saturday.

Since losing their opening game to Bannockburn, Mark Love's team had defeated Crieff and Strathearn, Grangemouth Stags seconds, and Bo'ness, to move second in Caledonia Midlands Region League, Division Three.

However, they have dropped back to third place on points difference after Strathmore, who are fourth, fought back to claim victory at Harley Street.

Rosyth, who picked up a losing bonus point, led 24-14 at the break but, in the second half, the visitors scored 24 points, for the concession of only eight, to secure the win.

"As always it is disappointing to lose. It's also frustrating as we were 19-7 up," Love said.

"However, Strathmore are a decent side and put us under pressure, allowing them to get the upper hand.

"A positive was that, in previous seasons, we could have imploded and allowed Strathmore to run away with the game. After some lapse of concentration, and wrong decisions made on the field, the guys got back in the game, keeping the score close.

"Unfortunately, we couldn't convert an opportunity near the end of the game to put is in a scoring position, and to possibly win the game. We did manage to come away with two points, keeping us in third place, where we want to win.

"We had Waid Academy at home this weekend, which will be another tough game. We just need to regroup and re-focus to get the win.

"The structure worked well against Strathmore. We just need to put it together for an 80 minute performance."

Kick off at Harley Street this Saturday is at 3pm.

Elsewhere, in Caledonia Midlands Region League, Division Two, Dunfermline Rugby Club's second XV will aim to bounce back from their 45-31 loss at Blairgowrie when they go to Aberfeldy, also for a 3pm kick off.

The men's first XV return to National League Division Four action at home to Strathmore, which also begins at 3pm at McKane Park.