Rugby: Ursache gets in on action

ROMANIAN international signing Sergiu Ursache was among the Watsonian try-scorers as preparations were completed for Saturday's opening premiership derby at Heriot's with a runaway win.

Capped twice this summer, against Ukraine and Namibia, the 21-year-old back row shared in a 78-7 Myreside victory over second division Aberdeen Grammar FPs at Myreside.

Competition looks particularly intense at a club keen to avoid last season's narrow escape from relegation and other home tries came from Will Rowley (two), Andy Fisher, Alan Nash, Jamie Forbes, Sam Paulo, Jamie Blackwood, Craig Sorbie, Andrew Skeen and Nick Hart.

The visitors, who are opening day opponents for Edinburgh Accies this weekend, looked thoroughly outclassed in being restricted to a lone touchdown near the end.

Particularly effective for 'Sonians was Skeen on his return from two seasons in the Italian leagues.

Heriot's also made a winning sign-off to their pre-season preparations with a 31-17 success at English national division two side Westoe, in Northumberland.

Former Watsonian wing Max Learmonth was a double try-scorer while others came from Scott Burnett, Glenn Bryce and Pete Eccles.

Incidentally, Heriot's are to tempt their squad with a player of the month accolade this season for first and second teams,

Coaches Bob McKillop, Roddy Deans and Mark Appleson will be among those who will be voting for the recipient, who will then be honoured at a regular function.

Many regard Boroughmuir, with their influx of three former professionals, as dark horses for the title.

Muir did little to dispute those predictions with a thumping 52-23 win at second division Edinburgh Accies.

Ex-Kirkcaldy winger Jordan Webster grabbed a touchdown but was overshadowed on the other flank by a brace from Tom Bury.

Adding to the rout, Stephen Ruddick, Fred Lait, Sean Crombie, Sam Johnson and Joni Hare all got over in the whitewash.

Accies relied heavily on the boot of Gavin Douglas for their points.

One of Accies' key rivals, Stewart's-Melville, appear to be in good nick after a 33-14 win at Dunfermline.

Musselburgh won 26-24 at Jed-Forest.

Jed were simply outmuscled and outfought by the bigger Musselburgh pack, Jed admitted.

Meanwhile, London Scottish have paid tribute to their weekend Currie conquerors after bouncing back with a 28-22 win at Ayr.

"The visitors were a little taken aback by the intensity of the Scottish Premiership champions Currie on at Malleny Park, eventually succumbing to a 34-13 defeat," said the exiles on their website.