Hillfoots RFC climb to third after win over Howe Crusaders

The team won 59-29 against Howe Crusaders, who were at the top of the table.

This was Hillfoots' seventh consecutive win, and they had not beaten Howe Crusaders since late October.

Howe Crusaders scored the first try within five minutes, but Hillfoots quickly responded.

Andy Fraser kicked a penalty, and Aidan Kerr scored a try to put Hillfoots in the lead.

Ryan Butterworth scoring his try (Image: John Wilson) Although Fraser missed the conversion, Hillfoots led 8-7.

Hillfoots continued their strong performance with another try by Fraser, but missed the conversion again.

Howe Crusaders equalised with a try, but Hillfoots regained the lead with Aaron Anderson's try from a driving maul.

The home team responded with another try, but Hillfoots ended the first half with a try by Danny Cockroft.

Fraser successfully converted both tries, while Howe Crusaders only converted one.

This left the halftime score at 27-19 in favour of Hillfoots.

Ruaridh Tod in action (Image: John Wilson) Hillfoots started the second half strongly, with Rory McNair scoring a try in the right corner.

Although the conversion was missed, Robert Hodge scored another try shortly after, and this time Fraser successfully converted.

Hillfoots brought on some substitutes, which led to a loss of structure and allowed Howe Crusaders to score their fourth try.

However, Kerr, now in the centres, scored his second try of the match, and Fraser successfully converted.

Hillfoots, feeling confident in their lead, opted for some penalty kicks.

Callum Williamson successfully scored two penalties from a distance.

As the final whistle approached, Howe Crusaders managed to score their fifth try, but Hillfoots had the last word.

After a strong scrum from the forwards, the backs moved the ball wide, and Ryan Butterworth scored in the corner.

Williamson successfully converted from the touchline, bringing the final score to 59-29 in favour of Hillfoots.

This victory moves Hillfoots up to third place in the table, only five points off second place and seven from the top.

With only four matches left in the league season, the team is optimistic about their chances.

Graeme Simpson, head coach said: "That was a terrific performance from the players against the highest performing team in the league to date.

"We had a feeling that we were due them a performance and it was great to see the lads achieve that and come away with the result.

"We have given ourselves a punchers’ chance with the league, and we will do everything we can to continue this great run and finish as high as possible."

The team will now take a two-week break for the final Six Nations fixture, and will next play against Madras at Tillicoultry Park on March 22.