Home   Sport   Article

Greens expect another tough challenge in Boxing Day clash





The Exiles/Students came out on top 31-5 in last year's Boxing Day clash for the Sinclair Cadzow Trophy. Picture: James Gunn
The Exiles/Students came out on top 31-5 in last year's Boxing Day clash for the Sinclair Cadzow Trophy. Picture: James Gunn

Millbank is set to stage the latest instalment of the annual festive rugby fixture between Caithness and the Exiles/Students.

The pitch has been subject to persistent heavy rain over the past week, causing the postponement of Saturday’s scheduled match between the 2nd XV and Fraserburgh.

But club officials are confident the Boxing Day clash, staged in memory of Sinclair Cadzow, will go ahead.

The Greens last tasted victory in 2019 when a last-minute penalty earned them a 22-19 triumph.

The last two tussles have seen the Exiles record decisive wins.

Former Thurso High and Greens centre Stuart Kirk, a Dundee-based dentistry student, is seeking a third success in charge of the visitors.

The 24-year-old turns out for National Division 1 side Dundee but is sidelined as he recovers from an operation to repair a hand tendon injury he suffered in a recent match.

He has again put together a strong squad and Caithness head coach Cameron Boyd expects another tough challenge.

Boyd said: “Last year’s match [which they lost 31-5] was the most physical game we played last season.

“It’s good to test ourselves playing against guys who are playing at a higher level.

“It’s an important game for the club and once again I’m sure it will be played in the correct spirit.”

Referring to the sodden condition of the pitch, Boyd said: “I am sure we’ll find a way to get it played.”

The Greens have a handful of regulars injured or unavailable but they should not be much changed from the squad that defeated Ross Sutherland 30-14 in the last Caley 1 match.

Boyd hopes the game will help keep his players in shape for their next league match, at home to Ellon on January 11.

The memorial match was inaugurated in 1996 following Sinclair’s tragic death at sea en route to the Ireland v Scotland Five Nations match in Dublin. He would have been 50 now.

Thursday’s match kicks off at 1pm.

The day will also see a repeat of last year’s inaugural Boxing Day match between the Krakens and a women’s Exiles/Students side. The 10 or 12-a-side game is to get under way at noon.


Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.



This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More