Match Report from: CONOR PALMER

It was a rainy Violetbank as the 1st XV welcomed Oban for their 1st home match of the new league season

In a match defined by contrasting halves and testing conditions, Annan delivered a much-improved performance to secure a hard-fought victory, showcasing both attacking intent and defensive steel.

From the first whistle, the home side came out with purpose and intensity, immediately putting the opposition under pressure. With the weather still relatively clear in the first half, the Annan players executed the new attacking structure with confidence and precision, carving out opportunities and turning them into points. The early dominance saw the team build a solid lead by halftime, a just reward for their ambition and cohesion in attack.

Tries from Fraser McMillan (2), James Kirby (1), Aitken Render (1) and  Josh Whiteside with a try and 2 conversions made it a commanding 29-0 lead at half time. Bonus point secure. Now to secure the win!

As the second half began, however, the weather took a turn for the worse. Heavy rain and swirling wind slowed the pace of the game significantly and hampered the ability of both teams to move the ball fluidly.

But while attacking chances dried up, Annans commitment didn’t. Instead, they showed impressive grit and discipline, adjusting to the conditions and relying on resolute defence to hold their lead.

Despite relentless pressure late in the game, Annan only conceded a single try — a testament to their organisation and resilience. The final stages were a test of character, and the lads stood tall, repelling numerous further chances by Oban to see out the match. With Josh Whiteside grabbing the last try of the match at the death.

Final score: Annan 1st XV 34 v Oban Lorne 5

This was a performance full of heart and hunger — a clear step forward in the team’s development. The Annan players adapted well to the new attacking structure in the first half and showed real maturity in how they defended the lead when the game tightened up. A proud day for the squad, and a platform to build on in the weeks ahead.

Congratulations as well to Jack Vivers who started and debuted for the 1st XV. Top stuff Jack.

The team now travel to Carrick on Saturday which will be a much tougher test as the Carrick side sit on a played 2 won 2 record at the top.

Annan starting XV: 1. Ryan Glass (C) 2. Kieron Warrick (VC) 3. Callum Taylor 4. Mason Watret 5. James Morrison 6. Jack Vivers 7. Wallace Alexander 8. Rohan Cother 9. Ben Latimer  10. Fraser McMillan 11. Bradley James 12. Josh Whiteside 13. James Kirby 14. Aitken Render 15. Aaron Carmichael

Subs: (all used) 16. John James Mackay 17. Sean Armstrong 18. Willie Gray 19. Andy McGreevy 20. Ben Conroy