With their fixture against Watsonians called off this weekend, Selkirk ‘A’ have an opportunity to regroup following last week’s defeat to a powerful Hawick Force side in the Arnold Clark East Reserve League 1.
Although now playing a last-minute friendly against Gala Reivers, the Philiphaugh men will be looking to bounce back when they welcome Boroughmuir 3rds next weekend, with preparations already underway for another important league encounter.
Despite the setback at Mansfield Park, it has been an encouraging opening to the campaign for the Souters, who have enjoyed victories both on the road and at Philiphaugh.
Ahead of a return to league action next week, we caught up with ‘A’ team captain Sam Coltherd to reflect on the season so far and the challenges that lie ahead.
Coltherd, who enjoyed a particularly busy summer representing his hometown as Selkirk’s Royal Burgh Standard Bearer, has been pleased with the way his side have started the campaign.
“It’s been a great start to the season for the boys,” he said. “We’ve picked up some really good wins, both away from home and at Philiphaugh, and there’s been a lot of positives to take from our performances.
“Obviously, the defeat against Hawick was disappointing, but they’re a very strong side and we know there are things we need to work on. It’s all about how we respond now.”
One of the biggest positives for Coltherd has been the emergence of younger players making the step up from Selkirk Youth Club into senior rugby.
He said: “It’s been really encouraging seeing the young boys coming through from the Youth Club. Lads like Joel Campbell and Rory McCulloch are getting their opportunities and showing what they can do at this level.
“It was also great to see current Youth Club player Chris Lawson getting his chance off the bench against Preston Lodge. He’s still playing youth rugby, so to see him stepping up and getting a taste of senior rugby is fantastic.
“Another exciting prospect is Rory Tuckwood, who’s only 18. Unfortunately, he’s currently out injured, but he’s certainly one to look out for when he gets back playing.
“And Jack Rae Patterson continues to improve in the front row. He’s developing well and gaining valuable experience every time he pulls on the jersey.
“That’s what the ‘A’ team is all about. Giving these young lads the opportunity to develop, gain confidence and experience senior rugby. Hopefully, in time, we’ll see more of them pushing for places in the 1st XV.”
Coltherd believes the mixture of youth and experience within the squad has been an important factor in their promising start, with the more established players helping the younger members settle into the demands of senior rugby.
He added: “There’s a really good spirit amongst the boys. We’ve got a good mix of experienced players and youngsters coming through, and everyone is working hard for each other.
“We know there will be tough games along the way, but that’s part of playing at this level. The important thing is that we keep learning and improving as a team.
“We’ve shown already this season what we’re capable of, and there’s plenty more to come from this group. If we keep working hard, supporting each other and bringing the young boys through, I think we’ve got every reason to be positive about the rest of the season.”
