WITH no senior fixtures on Saturday, Marr Rugby’s senior players had a well-earned chance to rest and recover as part of preparations for what will be the 1st XV’s biggest match of the season so far when they welcome high flying league leaders Watsonians to Fullarton.

Last season and earlier this year when Marr visited Myerside, the Capital team emerged as victors but Watsonians delivered some telling lessons to Marr’s younger players.

In particular Watsonians stand out player was experienced back row forward Rory Drummond who was pivotal in each of the three victories, even outshining British Lion Simon Taylor.

Whilst the three final score-lines have shown that Marr are narrowing the gap, the home side’s players know that they will have to be on top form to achieve an upset and close the points difference as the league enters its closing stages.

Only six matches remain. At the moment Watsonians appear to be comfortably in the solitary guaranteed promotion slot. Meanwhile the fight for the runner-up slot and reward of a play-off place is being hotly contested by Marr, Dundee and Jed Forest.

All four of the contenders are due to play each other in the coming weeks so the pressure will mount and it will be the clubs whose players have the most bottle who manage to fight their way through to secure the final top and runner up spots.

Under the tutelage of head coach Craig Redpath, Marr Rugby’s young team has continued to grow and develop.

In this second season in National League One, the players have stepped up to the mark and their hard work and efforts have earned the club its best ever league ranking and provided the opportunity to make even more club history. In the last away match Marr Rugby made its first trip to the cradle of Scottish Rugby and played Edinburgh Accies at Raeburn Place where further history was added to Marr Rugby’s purple and gold journey.

Marr Rugby’s senior XV know that they have a unique opportunity and guided by their coaching team they will be well prepared for the challenge ahead.

Watsonians are eager to ensure their support arrive at Fullarton in decent numbers and are offering free transport from Edinburgh to help this goal. Marr’s support continues to grow in numbers so they anticipate an electric atmosphere and exciting match as the two top sides meet with so much to play for.

With the return from injury of several key players, Marr’s squad selection will provide an interesting challenge for the coaching team.

After a successful operation and rehabilitation Fraser Grant makes a welcome return. He joins Mackenzie Pearce and Fraser Ferguson whilst Kris Kirk is showing great signs of progress back to fitness following injury.

Marr Rugby’s supporters will take comfort in the fact that the squad in recent months has become much more focused and determined in achieving their target for the season.

A table-topping tie awaits club rugby fans as a warm up for the next instalment of the RBS Six Nations where Scotland face Wales in Cardiff. Club rugby supporters can enjoy a superb and not to be missed opportunity of being part of history in the making.

Marr Rugby – next fixtures, Saturday,. February 13 (3 pm ko unless otherwise advised.

1st XV – home v Watsonians (league)

3rd XV – home v Hillhead Jordanhill (see website for earlier kick-off).