Kings of the Borders sevens: Selkirk win their cup

THE Kings of the Borders sevens title will go down to the wire on Saturday at the Jed-Forest tournament after Selkirk stunned favourites Melrose in a dramatic final on Saturday at Philiphaugh.

The hosts called the tune in the Lawrie’s Garage-sponsored tournament, with the support of a vociferous crowd and the local silver band, to lift their own trophy for the fifth time in six years as Melrose counted the cost of a gruelling, extra-time victory over holders Watsonians in a tough semi-final. Selkirk raced away to a 27-7 win, which was deserved after an equally hard semi win over Gala, thanks to Fraser Harkness’ crucial conversion, while Andrew Skeen scored the winning try deep into extra time to set up the all-Borders final.

Captain Gavin Craig, who had led his side to victory in 
the Langholm Sevens, had no doubt that his players had every right to celebrate after the final whistle.

He said: “I knew that Melrose would punish us if they got the ball. I think that it was meant to be our day. I am proud of the way that we played and it was great to win.”