Rugby: Grange face ‘biggest test so far’ against leaders Grove

DUNCAN RIDDELL lives five minutes from Grove Menzieshill’s ground, where Grange’s indoor hockey title hopes could be dimmed or boosted tomorrow.

The Scotland under-21 internationalist studies sports management at Abertay University and has no doubts about the importance of the clash with the current Division One pacesetters.

Grange are third with six points from back-to-back wins over Hillhead and Edinburgh University. Grove top the table with nine points after victories over Edinburgh University, Inverleith and Western.

Riddell, a former George Watson’s pupil, said: “This is undoubtedly our biggest test so far. We beat Hillhead 6-1 and Edinburgh University 3-2 but Grove are going really well.

“They beat Edinburgh University 3-0 at Dundee, then beat Inverleith 7-3 at Dundee and won 5-0 at Western last weekend.

“They are really gelling at the moment and are looking to keep their winning run going. This is a game we can’t afford to lose if we want to challenge Kelburne for the title.”

Meanwhile, Inverleith will be without the injured trio of Paul Ritchie, Andy Malcolm and Chris Bird as they entertain Hillhead.

Coach Steve McCurry, who will also decide on the fitness of Tom Cousins this week, said of the game: “We will be taking nothing for granted.”

Watsonians are in seventh spot with a point and travel to bottom club Aberdeen.