Sinclair sure Porty have perfect mix for successful Plate

Published on Friday 2 May 2008 10:26

PORTOBELLO secretary Barry Sinclair believes the experience in the Cavalry Park club's ranks can lead them to Murrayfield glory tomorrow.

Porty get the day's proceedings underway when they take on Aberdeen University in the final of the Scottish Hydro Electric Plate competition (kick off 10.30am).

And Sinclair, whose recent involvement with the Scottish Universities means he has an insight into how the students are likely to play, expects a game that will set the tone for a feast of rugby in the day's four men's finals.

"It should be a cracking game against Aberdeen Uni. We like to play open rugby and I'm sure they will do the same", he said. "I reckon they will have some pretty useful players."

It will be crucial, Sinclair believes, not to allow the occasion to overawe the players and, in that respect, Porty's blend of youth and experience could be vital.

In the ranks are men such as flanker Sean Hollywood, who has now returned to the club after a season with Boroughmuir, the secretary's son Chris, who just missed out on selection for the 2003 Cup final while with Heriot's, Chris Davis, who had a spell with Musselburgh, and the one man who has played at the national stadium, lock Peter Mauritzen, a Scottish Schools cap almost two decades ago.

"We have a few guys who are very experienced, and there is a sprinkling of youngsters. The age range of the team is everything from 18 upwards", added Sinclair. And, in coach Eddie Henderson, they also have a man who is no stranger to the big occasion, having lifted a Melrose Sevens winners medal with Gala.