Hawick 9 - 17 Heriot’s: Giant leap forward for Heriot’s in survival battle

Heriot’s took a giant step towards regaining what had, until this season, been permanent top-tier status by defeating joint leaders Hawick at Mansfield Park, writes Alan Lorimer.

Hawick still have a chance of being in the top two promotion positions but much now depends on other results. The Greens, however, will look back on this match with regret over two clear try chances in the first half and a decision not to kick for goal.

Nevertheless, Hawick led 6-0 at half time through two penalty goals by full back Neil Renwick. Immediately after the break it was Heriot’s who were applying pressure, rewarded with a try by winger Colin Goudie from a move started by No.8 Jason Hill.

Graham Wilson converted before exchanging penalties with Lee Armstrong. Hawick utility back Armstrong was then short with an ambitious kick into the wind that kept Heriot’s ahead by one point.

Then, as Hawick chased the game in injury time, a mis-timed pass gave Heriot’s centre Max Learmonth a clear run to the line, his try converted by Wilson.