It was a case of what might have been for Hawick’s at Philiphaugh this weekend, as the Selkirk proved equally adept in defence as they did in attack, to run out victors by 34-15.

Having to reshuffle their squad following the loss of a handful of players to injury during the week, Hawick opened the scoring when Kirk Ford slotted a long range penalty. Then after conceding a try to Selkirk, the Greens replied with a sweeping attack and swift hands which resulted in space being created for Charlie Welsh to go over in the corner, Ford once again on target with the extras. Selkirk 7 - 10 Hawick.

Selkirk however then retained possession well, to enjoy a lengthy period in the Hawick half, ultimately picking up their second try from a smart chip and gather. Then on the stroke of half-time Greens ill discipline saw them concede a kickable penalty which was converted by the home side, to go in to the break 17-10 up.

Hawick were looking to get the first score of the second half however it wasn’t to be as Selkirk once again found a way to the line, making it 22-10.

The Greens then started to build some phases and gain momentum, enjoying a good period of field position from which, following a penalty to the corner, a slick catch and drive from the line-out saw Fraser Renwick barging over the line. Ford’s conversion sadly ricocheting off the upright. 22-15.

However it was proving not to be Hawick’s day, and to Selkirk’s credit and Hawick’s dismay, the Souter’s rallied to take play back into the Hawick 22 from where they crossed for the bonus point try.

The Greens continued to press and created another couple of good opportunities for winger Charlie Welsh to go close, however neither effort got the nod from the referee. Then to add insult to numerous injuries, in the dying minutes Selkirk’s Man of the Match, Corey Tait picked up a loose ball to go over in the corner to cap be a fine individual performance . Final score Selkirk 34-15.

Despite the disappointment the squad will be feeling about the result, there were positives to take from the Hawick performance, and coupled with a little more belief in their undoubted collective ability, the lads will bounce back. Meanwhile the coaches will know where their focus needs to be prior to the visit of Glasgow Hawk’s to Mansfield Park next Saturday, and training this week will target these areas.