Pirates notch up home win against Nighthawks

East Kilbride Pirates 36 – Merseyside Nighthawks 2

Pics C/O EK Pirates

The Pirates returned to the familiar home territory of Hamilton Rugby Club on Sunday to take on the Merseyside Nighthawks.  

As their 2011 campaign approaches the business end of the season, it is imperative that the Pirates keep winning and concede as few points as possible in the process, as average points conceded is one of the tie-breakers when it comes to deciding which teams have home field advantage during the play-offs. The home defence did their bit by not giving up a score all day, and in the process they racked up more hits on Merseyside than The Beatles did in their heyday. The Nighthawks only points came on the first play of the game when they sacked Pirates’ quarterback Ryan Hunter in the endzone for a Safety. East Kilbride’s next possession was more fruitful, with Hunter making amends by running in a touchdown from 13 yards. The extra point attempt was wide, and proved to be an omen of things to come, as the subsequent five attempts all failed too for a variety of reasons. The 1st Quarter ended with East Kilbride extending their lead when Hunter connected with Jamie McLaughlin with a 24-yard pass to make it 12-2.

On the second play of the second period, Cornerback Scott Findlay recovered a Nighthawks’ fumble, setting up his team mates for their third score. It was QB Hunter who was again the player to take advantage, with his second TD of the day, on a 15-yard dash. The teams then traded punts before an Ivor Clark interception at his own 4-yard line ended any hopes Merseyside had of reducing the deficit. Indeed, the home side increased the gap between the sides on the back of a 12-yard pass from Hunter to Kenny Muir. This was the last play of the half, and the Pirates were happy to go in with a 24-2 scoreline in their favour.

East Kilbride kicked off in the third Quarter, but their defence soon forced the visitors to punt and the resultant 8-play drive concluded with a 28-yard scoring pass from Hunter to Craig Towler. There was no more scoring until the final Quarter and another Hunter to Towler connection made it 36-2.

The Pirates now have a 5 – 1 record and take on the current Divisional leaders, the Yorkshire Rams, at Hamilton Rugby Club on Sunday 17 July. Kick-off is at the earlier than usual time of 12:00. Entry to the game is £3, with under 16s free, and fans will be able to enjoy half-time entertainment from the Pirates’ Signature Cheerleaders, commentary and a free programme. Plus, there’ll be a chance to win a £30 voucher from Frankie & Benny’s, sponsor of Quarterback Neil Baptie.

Game report by Bill Campbell