HERIOT’S achieved something on Saturday that their illustrious predecessors in recent history could not manage when they defeated Currie at Goldenacre to earn the right to have their name engraved on the Bill McLaren Shield.
They are only the second team in the Shield’s five-year history to achieve that distinction, following in the footsteps of Ayr, who managed the feat in November 2012.
The shield is competed for on a challenge basis, with the team in possession defending it every time they play at home. Four successful defences earns the right to have your name engraved, while a loss means you pass the Shield on to your opponents.
Phil Smith’s side has now battled its way into the top four, and getting their name on the Shield is the icing on the cake.
“It is a fantastic thing. It’s a little bit of pressure but the opportunity to put your name on something is a thing that you want. I think our performance fully deserved it,” said Smith, after watching his team’s 25-17 win. Heriot’s are now two points ahead of Currie and visit Gala next weekend then host Melrose before going to Stirling County on the final weekend, while Currie host a resurgent Hawick, go to Boroughmuir, then finish up against Glasgow Hawks at home.
Meanwhile, Matt Landels celebrated his 40th birthday in magnificent style as part of a Hawick side which took a huge step towards securing Premiership survival with a 24-17 victory over Glasgow Hawks, turning round a humiliating 78-13 defeat at Old Anniesland in October.
Stirling County’s match against league leaders Melrose was postponed due to snow, meaning that Ayr have now drawn level with the Borderers on points but have played a game more. Gala dropped to bottom spot after a 40-3 defeat at Watsonians.
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