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Lanarkshire Longhorns Youth Team got their season off to an impressive start earlier today at Beltane, Wishaw with a "scrimmage match" against Inverclyde Phoenix.

This was the first competitive outing for the newly formed squad before the league season gets under way early next month.

Inverclyde provided a spirited opponent despite their depleted squad, with most of their players having to play on both sides of the ball under difficult conditions with the sun appearing for what seems the first time this year!

Inverclyde took their first possession deep into the Longhorns Redzone and were unlucky not to score on their opening drive.

The Longhorns replied with a steady drive down the field culminating in a touchdown pass from QB Ally Ferguson to former Falcons receiver Craig Samuel.

The following Inverclyde possession led to a turnover by the Longhorns defence after a fumble at mid-field, which led to a second TD pass from Ferguson, this time to Matthew Kennedy. Inverclyde continued to apply pressure despite the Longhorns positive start, with a strong running game featuring several long carries down the right sideline by #21 Fabio Marturano.

After the early scoring drives the game became more evenly balanced with both teams exchanging turnovers.


Phoenix narrowly missed a possible TD pass and a number of pass interceptions saw both defence and offence for the Longhorns getting plenty of opportunities to put their playbook into practice. The match ended with no further scoring.

Lanarkshire Longhorns would like to thank Head Coach Vince Gillen and all of the Inverclyde Phoenix players and staff for providing us the opportunity to assess our readiness for the coming season, and look forward to their joining the league in seasons to come.

The coaches had seen enough and halted the match at that .

Coach Orr said " The defence gave in places but didn't break altogether to allow a score for the Phoenix . This showed us a lot where we can improve . But these boys and this team will learn quickly ."

Coach Clee added " I was impressed with a lot of what I saw on the pitch and after a few more sessions I am sure we will have sorted most of the small imperfections out and will be ready for the season "

If you would like to play for the Longhorns and are between the ages of 16 to 19 then call Colin Macmillan on 07787785262 or check the web site www.lanarkshirelonghorns.com

Report Eric Dougan/Colin MacMillan    Pics  Lanarkshire Longhorns