Waid Academy Fps welcomed a well drilled Shetland side to Anstruther, and taking into account Shetland have only conceded fifteen points in their league to date, the home team knew it was going to be a mighty tough test.

As expected, Shetland immediately attacked strongly, and Waid relied on tough tackling from Fergus Middleton who was instrumental in the pack and led by example throughout the whole game.

Waid regained control of the game and began their attack. Eventually, a penalty was awarded to Waid for foul play by Shetland. Stand Off Paul Lindsay calmly kicked the ball through the uprights despite the foul weather, to give Waid their first points of the day and a three nil lead.

Waid regained possession form the restart, and continued to attack. Waid witnessed strong runs from centres Andrew MacIver and Richard Bach which allowed the home team to set up camp in the opposing twenty-two. Shetland were again punished for foul play and once again, Paul Lindsay did not let the wind or rain phase him as he kicked another three points for the Anstruther men.

Waid now six nil up, had a tough time before the break. Shetland had numerous attacks and eventually broke the Waid defence line for a one-on-one with full back John Murray, who was able to prevent the score with a textbook tackle.

Unfortunately for Waid, Shetland were rewarded for their attacking efforts, and the home side were punished for missed tackles. Shetland’s Full-Back was allowed in for the score which was converted and this left Waid 7-6 down going into the second half.

Waid came into the second half determined to make amends for mistakes made in the first half and regain the lead. Captain Kevin Anderson led a strong attack towards the visitors try-line. Strong Running also from Waid’s Number Eight Ian Brocklebank and Flanker Gary McLaggan helped Waid get close to the line but unfortunately, could not execute. However, much to Waid’s delight, Shetland gave up yet another penalty and Lindsay slotted the ball through the posts to put Waid back in front.

Not one to take their foots off the pedal, Waid got straight back into action and forced their attack forward. Adam Shaw led the pack en route for what looked to be a promising charge. Camped out on the visitor’s try line, Waid were eventually rewarded with a try from Kevin Anderson. Regrettably, the try was not converted, but the home team knew that a converted try from the guests would see the game tied up.

Strong defence from Waid ensured that Shetland would return home empty handed and the Anstruther team now face a tough Quarter Final away to RAF Lossiemouth RFC on the 26th November.

This week’s Man of the Match went to Waid’s second row Euan Moncrieff whose effort was second to none and his jumping in the line was immense.

After the final whistle, a proud Captain Kevin Anderson said “I am immensely full of pride after today's game. We had a few late call offs and injuries during the game, but our young lads stepped up to the mark and showed they can perform when called upon. Again, this leaves us with a headache for future selections but for now, this is a great day for Waid Academy Fps”. The team, in keeping with the season, celebrated in style with a Halloween party at the Rugby Club.

Next week, Waid are back to league business with a tough test away to Stobswell RFC. Kick off will be at 2pm in Dundee. Further information can be found at http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/waidacademyfp/"