Match Report RFC versus Belfast and Dublin Insurance Institutes RFC 2017

Edinburgh started off brightly by attacking the end with one of the most iconic backdrops in world rugby, Edinburgh Castle, showing off their intent to move the ball quickly. The Irish were however steadfast in their defence and managed to thwart Edinburgh’s initial attacks. Following a dominant scrum the Irish played with intent and the type of running rugby that is identified with this fixture that makes it a must to participate in, scoring under the posts for to take an early lead.

Throughout the first half the Irish pack took control of the set piece, giving steady ball to the Irish backs that they used to establish a lead they were able to defend for the remainder of the game.
The Edinburgh Pack started to rumble and as a result Edinburgh started to turn possession and territory into points.

The second half started again with Edinburgh playing some inspirational rugby against the stubborn Irish defence making this game an appealing game to the neutral, tries started to rain in from both teams. Before the final Irish try the ball was turned over in open play 7 times which is testament to how much the game had broken up and both side invention, the Irish finally scoring under the posts and allowing everyone to grab their breath.

The result prompted joy in the Irish ranks and despair from the Edinburgh boys, although as with every fixture between these 2 great teams rugby, friendship and the Insurance sector was the real winner (well we would say that!).

Edinburgh was represented by 24 players covering 7 of the biggest and local companies within insurance and financial services in Edinburgh and over 10 rugby clubs were represented. The Irish had a squad of 23 from 6 of the most respected companies based in Ireland. A good number of former players and Alikdoos added to the sense of occasion and stayed to enjoy one off the most memorable dinners in recent memory which boasted a very entertaining speech from Heriots, Scotland, British and Irish Lions legend Iain “the Bear” Milne.

For those interested in the stats, through this whole game there was a total of 1 kick from hand. Perhaps the professional game should take note!