Strathmore stormed the beaches at the Islay Beach Rugby tournament like John Wayne and his marines in the Sands of Iwo Jima. Under the leadership of new captain Stuart Gray the blacks had a grand slam of four wins in the pool section to reach their first semi final in the premier beach rugby event in Scotland.

This was a fantastic effort after the squad had imbibed the islands hospitality on the previous evening, to paraphrase Winston Churchill "never has so much been drunk by so few in so little time". That said their first outing was against an equally inebriated side from Moffat and their one dimensional hit up game was no match for the mobile Strathie squad. A final score of six tries to two showed the gulf between the sides.

Watsonians were the next side to oppose the blacks and the step up in quality was palpable. Colin "Jesus" Bell was immense at the breakdown, slowing down opposition ball and fighting for the scraps like a border terrier. Because of Bell's efforts Strathie always had the edge and eased home 4-2 in a high quality encounter.

Lips were then being licked as the next match would be against the defending champions from Melrose who were guests of the tournament sponsors. After a few light refreshments from the mobile beach bar, Strathie hit the sand with some intent. They opened the scoring with a well worked try from skipper Gray. The borderers hit back to level the scores in this most physical of battles. Dave Smith then inspired his team mates with a tackle that was the biggest hit since the "Rumble in the Jungle", this fierce defence eventually led to a loose ball that was scooped up by South African Danie van Wyk. The Bok showed faster feet than Wayne Sleep on hot coals as he scorched past the desperate defenders for the winning score.

The final group game was a rout as van Wyk scored four and the intense Malkowski two against the local island side, eventually running out seven nil winners.

Oban Lorne were the sizeable task given to the blacks in the semi final but it was a bridge too far for the Angus side. Despite a gallant effort, especially from teenage powerhouse Lee Alexander, the blacks were put to the sword and lost 4-1 but as always fought to the end.

Overall it was a fantastic end to a hard season and the invites have already been sent out for involvement in Eat Sand 7. A final thanks should go to the travelling support of Bunkers, Paul and Road Runner who collectively made a valiant effort at drinking all the whiskey on the island.

Strathmore : Lee Alexander, Iain Fletcher, David Smith, Colin Bell, Stuart Gray, Calum Nicol, Tim Malkowski, Danie van Wyk, James Kiely.