Lake District: Ambleside Centurions earn Scottish victory

The Ambleside Centurions made the trip up to Scotland on Saturday, March 29 to take on the Annan RUFC Seconds.

This was the reverse fixture to the game played at Galava Park in February, in one of the 'social games' that the Centurions have organised to further grow the club's following.

Director of Rugby Andrew Brown said: "When we left Cumbria, it almost felt tropical to the weather that awaited us in Scotland.

"As both teams took to the pitch, the temperature plummeted, the rain lashed down and the wind began to howl.

"However, this is what rugby is all about - it did not stop both teams going at it hammer and tongs and trying to throw the ball about and play fast expansive rugby."

The Centurions claimed a 20-7 victory for their fifth win of the campaign (Image: Clare Gelderd Photography)

At the half time whistle, the home side held a 7-5 advantage thanks in part to a failed conversion from Ambleside's Cameron Penistone.

The main concern at the break revolved around Rory Smyth, who went over badly on his ankle and had to leave the field with what is suspected ligament damage.

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As the game continued, Penistone was able to atone for his earlier miss to help give the Centurions a 7-17 lead.

The 'social games' are being used to build the Centurions' reputation, both in Cumbria and beyond (Image: Clare Gelderd Photography)

"The weather was now Baltic and, when the referee pulled a calf muscle, you knew it was extremely cold and wet beyond being funny," Andrew added.

"With five minutes to go, Matty Kaye poked home a cheeky little drop goal to put the game beyond doubt at 7-20."

The victory constituted Ambleside's fifth success of a season in which they have returned to competitive action.

Both clubs are now hoping the games will be an annual tradition (Image: Clare Gelderd Photography)

"In the clubhouse, that's when the real fun started - Annan were magnificent hosts with great food, lots of drink, and brilliant banter and laughs," said Andrew.

"Both teams agreed to make the game an annual fixture and Ambleside now look forward to welcoming Keswick to Galava Park next weekend for the final league game of the season.

"Then we have the last four weeks of the season, all at home, with some magnificent festivals of rugby to look forward to."