Uddingston came out on top in the South Lanarkshire derby on Saturday with a narrow 19-15 win over table topping Cambuslang.

With 3 games in hand over their rivals the Villagers went into the game knowing that a victory would not only narrow the gap at the top but would greatly improve their promotion ambitions.

The opening 40 minutes was a tough encounter, with both sides looking to create the breaks, but neither able to finish them off. As it was, it took until the 35th minute before the scoreboard was forced into action, the visitors opening the scoring with a converted try. Minutes later, the Villagers hit back to level at the break, Blane Anderson securing the try while his brother Ruairidh added the conversion.

With all still to play for it was Cambus who nudged ahead on 53 minutes, slotting home a penalty.

Yet again, the Villagers were quick to hit back, and 2 minutes later McPhail crossed for their second try of the afternoon. Anderson once again added the extras and the home crowd were delighted to be back in front.

With the game entering the final 10 minutes it was starting to get frantic but the Villagers thought they had settled the nerves when Blane Anderson crossed for his second try. This time the conversion was off target but with a 9 point lead and as many minutes remaining it was the home side who looked more settled.

With the match drawing to a close the Villagers looked to have secured the win, and denied their rivals any points. Cambus had other ideas and with the clock reaching 80 minutes they claimed the final try of the afternoon, and what could turn out to be a crucial losing bonus point.

The closing moments were nervous on both sides but the Villagers held on for a well deserved win.

The result moves Uddingston up to 4th in the Division 2 table but this league still has a long way to go before matters at the top will be settled

The next outing for the Villagers is the short trip to Dalziel on Friday 09 February in what will be a replay of Dalziel’s very first fixture from 1924 as they kick off their centenary year. Action kicks off at 7pm.