PETERHEAD, one of the relatively new boys of the Caledonia set-up, enjoyed their first league success since winning promotion from the long defunct Eastern District League in 1989 after winning the Caley 4 North title last week.
When Bob Richmond, the SRU’s representative for the area, handed over the trophy after the club’s final game away to Deeside, the joy of the occasion was tinged with sadness, as officials and players, reflected on the loss of head coach Bill Innes, who passed away last month.
Former president and player, Neil Davidson who took over the coaching duties after the shock news of the death of their highly respected head coach summed up the sadness at the club when. “It was Bill who got us to where we are now,” he said. “Thanks to him and his devotion to the club over the years we find ourselves at the head of affairs in Caley 4 North. We are stunned by his early passing at only 58. The promotion is dedicated to him. He was a great servant of the club, and will be sadly missed.'”
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The club, which was formed 35 years ago, has enjoyed a particularly good season, winning six of their eight games, taking them eight points clear of nearest challengers Dyce, but more significantly 14 points above their keenest rivals, and near neighbours Fraserburgh.
“The lads from the Broch have become our great derby rivals since they came into existence in 2014,” explained Davidson, who is a veteran of many a year with the Catto Park side and made an appearance in the final game at Banchory last week. “At the time, I recall thinking there was not really a case for having two teams in the Buchan area of Aberdeenshire, but they have done well, including pushing us for the title earlier in the season.”
Unfortunately for the once speedy centre, it was not a winning end to the season as an up for it Deeside cruised to a 40-5 win on Saturday, enabling them to clinch third place in the division at the expense of Fraserburgh. Undismayed, Davidson said: “I’m not the future of the club. That lies in the hands of outstanding defenders like Liam Jordan and Will Mackie, while our main try scorers are Daniel Smith, Oliver Cole and Stephen McKee. In the pack, we have been well served by Neil Cantlay and Duncan McCondochie.
“Cameron Innes who is only 18, is one for the future. We are a club on the move, but as yet, have no idea what the new structure will be next season.”
Richmond added his own tribute to the Peterhead success story. “Good to see the club going so well with home grown talent, and a great team spirit.”