Play-Off Final – Ayr v Currie Chieftains

Chieftains Glorious in defeat – on and off the pitch

I’m sure all of you know the outcome by now but unless you were there, or followed the TV coverage, you may not know just how much there was for anyone connected with Currie Chieftains to be incredibly proud of.

Our squad put in what I believe was their best performance of the season in terms of both execution and effort. There was plenty of tremendous set piece and broken play attacking, often involving large numbers of phases and every pair of Currie hands. Top quality Chieftains rugby that was a feast for all spectators, regardless of club allegiance.

The defensive effort was massive. Whether it was shutting out Ayr when camped on our line, or tracking back in numbers after a line break – then making try-saving tackles I can’t remember seeing a defensive effort that matched this for commitment and tenacity.

And this level of performance and commitment was matched by our incredible support, in particular at the Currie end of the stand. Everyone from Ayr must have thought they were at the other end of the A70 at Malleny – the noise was constant, good natured and LOUD! So loud I wouldn’t be surprised if some Currie/Balerno locals thought there was a home game on!

One of the Ayr management teams confessed to me afterwards he was cranking up the music on the PA as it was the only thing that could match our fans, who started years ago in “Colts Corner”  and have grown into our very own “Ultras” – guys, you were immense and truly a 16^th man.

Everyone from Ayr that I spoke to after the match was incredibly complimentary about our squad and our fans. On the pitch, they said their bench was the difference and that seemed a fair assessment and one that reflects how we matched them on the pitch – and played most of the rugby. They also said our support contributed massively to the occasion by creating a phenomenal atmosphere, which they recognised and thanked us for by increasing our share of the gate – that is how much of an impact we made.

Everyone behaved impeccably, embodying true Rugby Values, and the Ayr hospitality and reception was a credit to them too.

Anybody walking into our clubhouse on Saturday night would have immediately thought we had won, such was the atmosphere and vibe. After a few beers to take the edge off the disappointment, and our players realising they simply could not have given any more, the “beer bonding” continued in great spirits with all types of Chieftains folk having a great time together.

Rugby was the clear winner on the pitch on Saturday but everyone connected with Chieftains was a winner too – so, so much for us all to be proud of.

Gavin McMurray, Chair - Currie Chieftains