History
The University of St. Andrews Rugby Football Club was founded in 1858. "In 1858-59 Rugby Football was started by an old Rugby boy" it is said from the reminiscence of James Simpson Scotland who was a matriculated student at the University at that time. However the beginning of something akin to the modern system of organised athletic activity seems to have been associated, in the case of St. Andrews, with the opening of St. Leonard's Hall in 1861. This was a residence for male students deliberately designed to win back the Scottish aristocracy and professional classes from the English Universities.
Andrew Lang, who came from Edinburgh Academy as an original member of St. Leonard's Hall is quoted as saying "Rugby football and golf and cricket were much more in our thoughts than the historical associations of the place", and indeed in November 1863 the hand written St. Leonard's Magazine mentioned that "Our football club has been found for the session or season under circumstances of unexampled prosperity. Our subtle thanks to his energy and zeal in four years of captaincy" although it did not mention any names, it is thought unlikely to have been that same "Old Rugby boy" but a certain Charles Stewart.
(St. Leonard's Magazine of the 1860's was written entirely by Andrew Lang)
At this time it was thought of at the forefront of varsity activity together with golf and cricket, as exemplified in the very same article; "Play hard and keep at it and while you are about it, let your training, your muscular exertion and high spirits lead you to a place in the XV, and being in that enviable position, play to win." The XV being mentioned here is probably the hall XV as at this stage the University and St. Leonards formed two separate clubs.
The form of the game at this point appeared to vary between fifteens and twenties, whilst in the University it was generally played by, "a lot of heavy strongmen, highlanders some of them." Despite their strength within the University, they had to go far a field to get a team to meet them so that many of their matches were intra-University.
As to the standard of rugby at this time, it is unsure although one former student, Christopher Nicolson Johnston (Lord Sands to be) had few doubts; "St. Andrews was the Scottish nursery of rugby football and the St. Andrews University team was second to none.
If 'carrying' was initiated at Rugby, 'passing', the great feature of the back game, came from St. Andrews where it was started by H.L. Dick and A. Thom." Dick and Thom however did not get any recognition as international footballers and so their true qualities could never be assessed.
“It is perhaps not generally known that St Andrews was the nursery of Rugby football in Scotland in the 'sixties of last century, when clubs were being formed in the great towns and school teams were being organised. The first batch of famous players just before the days of internationals, were St Andrews men. The Edinburgh Wanderers, which is still going strong, started as the "St Andrews Wanderers," formed by St Andrews men who had found their way to Edinburgh. Matches and competitions now predominate. Then the game predominated. A match was a special and rare event. A game with sides picked on the spot was the normal form of the sport.” Lord Sands.
In 1871 in the first international between Scotland and England at Raeburn Place, two St. Andrews students, A. Clunies-Ross and R. Munro are seen to have represented Scotland showing the importance of the club at this time.
“Alfred was born around 1851 on Cocos. After attending Madras College he then studied medicine in Edinburgh and during 1873 worked at St George's Hospital in London.. E.W. Birch in his government report around 1885 wrote of Alfred: "He was a medical student but did not graduate. He lives at the Cocos and is the doctor of the place. He is a bachelor, an exceedingly well-informed man, talks well on most subjects, and is very popular with the natives. He is an excellent carpenter." He married his cousin Ellen at Cocos in 1886 and they had 5 children.
The "St Andrews Gazette" records a cricket match played between St Andrews University and Madras College in March 1864 (Madras won by 21 runs) and mentions "the very clever hitting and fielding of Affie Ross, a lively and smart little fellow, to all appearances not yet reached his teens". He is also recorded playing a football fixture on 9th January, 1869 at the Baxter Park, Dundee against Aberdeen University. He is there referred to as Alf Ross and his brother Alex Ross was also in the team. Alfred was also an excellent Rugby Football player. During his stay in Edinburgh he played in the very first Rugby Football International between Scotland and England. The Rugby Football Union was newly formed and the first fixture they arranged was a match on 27th March 1871 at Raeburn Place, Edinburgh, between Scotland and England. Alfred was in the Scottish XX team that day. The result was a victory for Scotland. He subsequently played for the Wasps (1874-80) during his time in London. In 1888 Alfred went to work in North Borneo. In 1901 he became seriously ill and moved to Singapore. He returned to Cocos to recuperate in 1902 but died in 1903.” www.madras.fife.sch.uk/archive
In 1871, due to heightened interest in Rugby in Scotland, pressure mounted on the playing of an International. Following a meeting on 5th December, representatives of four Scottish Clubs (Edinburgh Academicals, West of Scotland, Glasgow Academicals, and University of St Andrews), wrote to B.H. Burns, the Secretary of Blackheath.
The letter of challenge issued on behalf of the Senior Scottish Clubs:
Sir,
There is a pretty general feeling among Scotch football players that the football power of the old country was not properly represented in the late so-called International Football Match. Not that we think the play of the gentlemen who represented Scotland otherwise than very good - for that it was so is amply proved by the stout resistance they offered to their opponents and by the fact that they were beaten by only one goal - but that we consider the Association rules, in accordance with which the late game was played, not such as to bring together the best team Scotland could turn out. Almost all the leading clubs play by the Rugby Code, and have no opportunity of practising the Association game even if willing to do so. We therefore feel that a match played in accordance with any rules other than those in general use in Scotland, as was the case in the last match, is not one that would meet with support generally from her players. For our satisfaction, therefore, and with a view of really testing what Scotland can do against an English team we, as representing the football interests of Scotland, hereby challenge any team selected from the whole of England, to play us a match, twenty-a-side, Rugby rules, either in Edinburgh or Glasgow on any day during the present season that might be found suitable to the English players. Let this count as the return to the match played in London on 19th November, or, if preferred, let it be a separate match. If it be entered into we can promise England a hearty welcome and a first-rate match. Any communications addressed to any one of us will be attended to.
We are, etc.
A. H. Robertson, West of Scotland FC
F. J. Moncrieff, Edinburgh Academical FC
B. Hall Blyth, Merchistonian FC
J. W. Arthur, Glasgow Academical FC
J. H. Oatts, St Salvador FC, St Andrews
The first ever international match: Scotland v England played at Raeburn Place in Edinburgh, Monday 27th March 1871, in front of a crowd of 4000 (Scotland won by one goal and one try to one try, the teams were 20-a-side and Halves were 50 minutes each). The try was awarded after a 10 minute argument, leading to a famous aphorism by Dr. H.H. Almond (1832-1903), the Scottish umpire: "I must say, however, that when an umpire is in doubt, I think he is justified in deciding against the side which makes the most noise. They are probably in the wrong." (H.H. Almond did much to establish rugby in Scotland and to develop the game as a handling game).
The scores for Scotland were obtained by Angus Buchanan, from whose try W. Cross kicked a goal, but he was unsuccessful in his attempt to convert the second try which he scored himself. The English try was credited to R. H. Birkett, but F. Stokes, the English captain, was unsuccessful with the place kick.
England
A. G. Guillemard (West kent) - Back, A. Lyon (Liverpool) - Back, R. R. Osbourne (Manchester) - Back, W. Maclaren (Manchester) Three-quarter back, J. E. Bentley (Gipsies) - Half-back, F. Tobin (Liverpool) - Half-back, J. F. Green (West kent) - Half-back, F. Stokes (Blackheath), Captain, R. H. Birkett (Clapham Rovers), B. H Burns (Blackheath), J. H. Clayton (Liverpool), C. A. Crompton (Blackheath), A. Davenport (Ravenscourt Park), J. M. Dugdale (Ravenscourt Park), A. S. Gibson (Manchester), A. St. G. Hamersley (Marlborough Nomads), J. H. Luscombe (Gipsies), C. W. Sherrard (Blackheath), D. P. Turner (Richmond), H. J. C. Turner (Manchester).
Scotland
W. D. Brown (Glasgow Academicals) - Back, T. Chalmers (Glasgow Academicals) - Back, A. Clunies-Ross (St. Andrews University) - Back, J. W. Arthur (Glasgow Academicals) - Half-back, F. Cross (Merchistonians - Half-back, T. R. Marshall (Edinburgh Academicals), F. I. Moncrieff (Edinburgh Academicals), Captain, A. Buchanan (Edinburgh University), A. B. Colville (Merhistonians), A. Drew (Glasgow Academicals), W. Forsyth (Edinburgh University), F. Finlay (Edinburgh Academicals), R. Irvine (Edinburgh Academicals), W. Lyall (Edinburgh Academicals), H. Mein (Edinburgh Academicals), J. W. McFarlane (Edinburgh University), D. Munro (St. Andrews University), T. Ritchie (Merhistonians), F. Robertson (West of Scotland), J.S. Thomson (Glasgow Academicals).
A match report was carried on page 5 of the Glasgow Herald on 28 March 1871 next to an article on coursing.
The importance of the club was further exemplified when a meeting of "all Members of Clubs playing the Rugby Union Rules" were invited to a meeting on 3rd March 1872 and St. Andrews University was represented by two officials (one of whom, the Captain P. Anton was later to play for Scotland against England in 1873) and so the club is termed a Founder member of the Union as recorded in the minutes of the first A.G.M. in October 1873.
P.Anton
1873: E
“The late Peter Anton, afterwards minister of Kilsyth, and, I think, one of Scotland's team in the first international, was a very tall and a very powerful man. He was an all-round athlete, as was shown by the fact that he carried off both the hammer and the hundred yards. Now Peter made a bet with some of his chums that he would single-handed play ten Madras schoolboys. A crowd assembled to see the match. Hacking, which was then lawful, was barred for the occasion. The match did not last a quarter of an hour. Peter was hopelessly outclassed or rather outnumbered, and after several goals had been scored against him, he chucked it. I can well remember how, when this happened, another student - a divinity student, too - who had a bet with Anton exclaimed: "Now for the beer!"” Lord Sands
The Edinburgh Academicals Football Club convened a series of meetings and, in 1868, with the agreement of the other schools and clubs, set out and had printed rules for the game in Scotland. The resulting booklet Laws of Football as played by the Principal Clubs in Scotland, became known as The Green Book. Alas, no copy survives but it is worthy of note that neither the clubs nor The Green Book felt it necessary to include the word 'Rugby' in their title.
Indeed, the Scottish Football Union, formed in 1873, did not alter its name to become the Scottish Rugby Union until 1924 - the year prior to the opening of Murrayfield.
The club continued successfully, gaining fixtures, although the number never rose above ten in a season, and were regarded to be in a "prominent position among the northern clubs," but by the end of the nineteenth century the Honourable Secretary Mr. A. Stoddard Murray "regretted the low state to which the club had come to due to general apathy and that the club should uphold the once famous name of the St. Andrews Varsity XV."
At the turn of the century the club moved from Station Park to University Park. The grounds at University Park also known as Carnegie Playing fields were gifted to the University in 1904 by Andrew Carnegie.
A pavilion was constructed and for the first time the shirts changed to the distinctive navy blue from red. With these improvements the form of the club rose, appearing in several North of Scotland Cup Finals and annually having a number of players selected for the North district.
Indeed on 20th March 1909 the captain noted that "A.R. Moodie of this club was capped in the Scotland v England international at Richmond - HURRAH!" A.R. Moodie was the first internationalist since
P. Anton in 1873.
A.R. Moodie
1910: F
1911: F
This period was a high point for the club. Not only Moodie but R.C. Stevenson and C.C.P. Hill earned caps before the War whilst University Park enjoyed its first of many representative fixtures.
C.C.P. Hill
1912: F, I
R.C. Stevenson
1910: F, I, E
1911: F, W, I
However the club slumped during the War and it was only at the end of the 1920's that anything of its pre-war standing was regained with a much improved fixture list and J.S. Wilson gaining caps in 1931 and 1932.
J.S. Wilson
1931: F, W, I, E
1932: E
By the 1934-35 season the club had been raised to championship status and two of its players in this side went on to play for Scotland; D.J. Macrae (1937-39 whilst still at University) and R.B. Bruce-Lockhart on leaving St Andrews.
D.J. Macrae
1937: W, I, E
1938: W, I, E
1939: W, I, E
“Duncan MacRae MC was educated at the Academy and played in the Accies team that won the Hawick Sevens in 1935/6 (a team that incidentally included Ben Tod). After the Academy he went on to study at St Andrews University where he gained nine caps for Scotland - winning on his debut away in Wales in February 1937 and playing in the victory over England at Twickenham in 1938 - and was a British Lion, going on the tour to South Africa in 1938.” (c/o Edinburgh Academicals Website)
R.B. Bruce-Lockhart
Cambridge University, London Scottish)
1937: I
1939: I, E
During the 2nd World War the club "maintained its high standard as one of the best clubs in Scotland" which was highlighted by a victory at Waterloo on December 22nd 1945 over the English Universities by 20 points to 3.
1942-43 Season:
Blues: J.L. Hilton, R. Lind, Bej. R.D.A. Smith, D.H. Prevan and J.L. Lindsay
1943-44 Season:
Captain D.H. Prevan, Secretary J.L. Lindsay, Treasurer J.L. Hilton.
Played 15 Won 11 Lost 3 Drew 1 Points For: 197 Against 55
Blues: D. Allardyce, A. Munro, J. Paton.
“An extraordinary Meeting was held on 25th January 1944 to fill the vacancy of Hon. Secretary due to the departure of J.L. Lindsay who went to serve on H.M. Forees. W.N. Niven was unanimously appointed to fill the position.”
J.L. Lindsay (Hon. Sec.)
1944-45 Season:
Captain R.R. Stevenson, Secretary W.N. Niven, Treasurer A.L. Stead.
Played 10 Won 8 Lost 2 Drew 0 Points For: 116 Against 23
“Blues: R.R. Stevenson, W.N. Niven, Bej Cooper, R.D. Mills, I. Petrie, Bej Newsome, Bej Dickinson.
Due to an outbreak of infantile paralysis (polio) the University as placed under a quarantine order and the fixtures with Edinburgh and Glasgow Universities had to be cancelled.
13th January-3rd February 1945 all games cancelled due to frost and snow.”
W. N. Niven (Hon. Sec.)
1945-46 Season:
Captain W.N. Niven, Secretary T.B. Cooper, Treasurer G. Howie.
Played 15 Won 10 Lost 4 Drew 1 Points For: 154 Against 74
“Blues: G. Howie, R. W. Grant, Bej Ross, A.R. Murray, A. Mann.
Scottish Universities: R.D. Mills (England, Kiwis, Ireland), G. Howie (Kiwis, Ireland), I Ross (Kiwis) A Stead (Ireland) A.R. Murray (England), A. Mann (Ireland).”
T. B. Cooper (Hon. Sec.)
1946-47 Season:
Captain T.B. Cooper, Secretary Bej Ross, Treasurer Bej Pride.
Played 7 Won 2 Lost 2 Drew 2 Points For: 109 Against 57.
“Hon Sec I.A. Ross was called up before he could fulfil his role and so the books were not filled in for the first 6 games of the season. G. Pride was elected Hon Sec and only received the books in the Second Term.”
G. L. Pride (Hon. Sec.)
1947-48 Season:
President Prof Graham M.A. D.Sc, Captain P.W. Grant, Secretary G.L. Pride, Treasurer W.D.T. Baxter.
Played 9 Won 4 Lost 4 Drew 1 Points For: 124 Against 90.
“Joseph Lorimer Lindsay was both a Rugby Blue and a Golf Blue. He was the first student world-wide to win the Boyd Quaich immediately after WW2. Sadly he died aged 37.”
G. L. Pride (Hon. Sec.)
1948–1949 Season:
Captain J.K. Whyte, Secretary J.L. Lindsay, Treasurer J.E. Matthews.
Played 18 Won 4 Lost 12 Drawn 2
“A.S. Thomson brought great honour to the club – one of the oldest in Scotland – by gaining his cap for the match with Ireland after having acted as traveling reserve in Paris and at Murrayfield of the Welsh game. He was also reserve in attendance at Twickenham. H. Scott, after appearing in all trials for Scotland including the trial at Murrayfield, was reserve in attendance at Twickenham and at Murrayfield for the Irish match and played for the Rest of Scotland v The Army at Glasgow.
J.K. Whyte, A.S. Thomson, H. Scott and J.L. Lindsay played for Scottish Universities v English Universities at Old Anniesland on February 22nd. Scottish Universities won 22-14.
The following played for Fife v Perth & Angus at Dawnfield on 30th October: A.A. Reid, I.A. Ross, D.M. Bayne, H. Scott, A.C. Hill.
The following played for Midlands v North at Aberdeen on 6th November: A.A. Reid, I.A. Ross, D.M. Bayne, H. Scott, A.S. Thomson. (Reserves: I.A. MacKinlay, A.C. Hill)
North v South at Perth on 13th November: I. A. Ross, A.S. Thomson, H. Scott.”
J. L. Lindsay (Hon. Sec.)
This post-war boom continued and in 1949 A.M. Thompson was capped followed by H. Scott (1950), I.S. Swan and M.K. Elgie (1952-53) who were the last capped university students.
AM Thompson
1949: I
1949-50 Season:
Secretary I.S. Swan
Played 22 Won 11 Lost 9 Drawn 2
“The following played for Fife v Perth & Angus at St Andrews on Wednesday 26th October, 1949: H. Scott, AM Thomson, JK Whyte, JA MacKinlay, B Rosenberg, IS Swann.
The following represented Midlands v North at St Andrews on Saturday 5th November, 1949: H Scott, AM Thomson, JA McKinlay and IS Swann. JA McKinlay also represented Cheshire at the beginning of the season in the English Counties Championship.
H Scott and AM Thomson represented North v South at Aberdeen on Saturday 12th November 1949. H Scott was our sole representative at Melrose for the first trial at Melrose on Saturday 17th December 1949.
Hamish Scott was reserve in attendance for the French, Welsh and Irish games and then he brought supreme honour to the club by gaining his cap for the Calcutta Cup game against England at Murrayfield on Saturday 18th March.
Following as this does on AM Thomson’s cap against Ireland last season, the club can feel justly proud of its International Representation. H Scott and AM Thomson represented Scottish Universities against English Universities at Liverpool.”
I. S. Swann (Hon. Sec.)
Hamish Scott
1950: E
1950-51 Season:
Captain , Secretary D.S. Ross.
Played 18 Won 7 Lost 10 Drawn 1 Points F 170 A 207
“The club’s visit to Hawick was a noteworthy event as it was the first to the borders since just before the recent war, and the first to Mansfield Park since the early 1920s.
The visit of Queen’s University was another highlight in a season that contained few moments of cheer. The Irish side included five international players, but although losing by a margin of thirteen points, the club played with plenty of team spirit which was all too often lacking in many other games.
I S Swan played for Fife, Midlands and the North, while P Baker and AM Thomson played for Fife and JL Graham played for Angus. AJ Mutch, JL Graham and IS Swan were also selected for the Scottish Universities XV against the English Universities, a match which was unfortunately cancelled because of frost.”
D. S. Ross (Hon. Sec.)
1951-52 Season:
Captain I McNab, Secretary W Thomson,
Played 22 Won 12 Lost 9 Drawn 1 Points F 220 A 171
“In a rather eventful season the usual spate of cancelled games occurred due to the hard frost and snow. Added to the four games unplayed due to these conditions two games were unplayed during the period of mourning for the late King. Clubs to show grand hospitality were Royal Signals Batterick, Ottley, Harrogate, Jedforest and Hawick these clubs being especially singled out as it was in no small measure due to these clubs that the tour was possible.
The tour which took place in the second week of the Easter vacation proved a great success and to the delight of all, the standard of play was applauded by all the clubs concerned. The results were favourable and but for an under estimation of the Ottley side might have been more so.
Included in the Signals side that opposed the touring side, was JGF Thomson, an old St Andrews player.
Against Harrogate who included six guest Yorkshire caps the team did very well and in fact were a trifle unlucky not to be ahead at the finish. Jedforest were beaten by a goal to a drop goal.
Hawick were very fortunate to have the excellent kicker J Wright in their ranks and two lovely penalty goals by that player was the margin by which the touring side were beaten. Blinding snow showers took a great deal of the enjoyment from the game however.
The congratulations of the club go to the following: IS Swan who played in all the Midlands and North representative games as well as in the Scottish trial; A Goldie, who played in all the Midlands and North representative games; A Mutch, who played for the North against the South; H McWalter who was travelling reserve for the North against the Springboks; R Madhill who was travelling reserve for North v South.
The Following played for Fife v Perth: WM Lyall, A Goldie, IS Swan, RF Madhill, LN Graham, AJ Mutch. Playing for Perth against this side were: H Scrimgeour, GK Shaw.”
W. Thomson (Hon. Sec.)
1952-53 Season:
Captain , Secretary G.B. James
Played 20 Won 7 Lost 11 Drawn 2 Points
“For Fife v Perth & Angus: W Thomson (capt), JWA Young, A Goldie, MK Elgie, JM Anderson, GW Adam, H McWalter, GB Sutton.
For Perth & Angus v Fife: GK Shaw
For Midlands v North: A Goldie, MK Elgie, JM Anderson, GW Adam, H McWalter.
For North v South: JM Anderson, MK Elgie, H McWalter.
Scottish Universities v English Universities: MK Elgie, H McWalter, J McNab.
Outstanding new fixtures next season are the games against Cambridge University and Glasgow Academicals.
Congratulations to IS Swan who played for the club from 1948-52 on gaining his cap in the Calcutta Cup game.”
G. B. James (Hon. Sec.)
I.S. Swan
Army, L Scot, Leic, Cov
1953: E
1954: F, Nz, I, E, W
1955: F, W, I, E
1956: F, W, I, E
1957: F, W
1958: F
1953-54 Season:
Captain , Secretary G.W. Adam.
Played 24 Won 10 Lost 12 Drew 2
“Won the Scottish Universities Championship for the first time since the early 30s.
Won the Midlands District Seven-a-side tournament at Perth on 10th April 1954., the first time the club has won this tournament since 1929. Beat Howe of Fife 9-3 in the final.
Tour: Leeds University, Guys Hospital, United Hospitals, Civil Service,
For Fife v Perth and Angus: W.G. Sutton, A. Dewar, J. M. Anderson, G.W. Adam
For Midlands v North: J.M. Anderson, G.W. Adam,
For North v Edinburgh: W. Thomson, J.M. Anderson,
For North v Glasgow: W. Thomson,
For North v South: W. Thomson, F. J. Whitehurst,
Scottish Universities v English Universities: W. Thomson, A. Goldie, B. Smith,
Scottish Universities v Irish Universities: W. Thomson, A. Goldie, B. Smith, A.S. Noble (travelling reserves J.M. Anderson, S. V. Tuff)
Scottish Universities v South: W. Thomson, J.M. Davidson.
Congratulations to I.S. Swann, who played for the club from 1948-52 on being capped for Scotland for all five of this season’s international matches.
Congratulations also to M.K. Elgie who played for the club during 1952 and 1953 on being capped for Scotland against New Zealand, Ireland, England and Wales.”
G. W. Adam (Hon. Sec.)
M.K. Elgie
Lond Scot
1954: Nz, I, E, W
1955: F, W, I, E
“Michael Kelsey 'Kim' Elgie (born 6th March, 1933, Berea, Durban, Natal) is a former South African and Natal cricketer who played in 3 Tests against New Zealand from 1961 to 1962. Kim was a capable right-hand batsman and slow left-armer with his only significant contribution coming at Johannesburg where he made 56. He also played rugby for Scotland eight times as a centre while he was studying at the University of St Andrews between 1954-55 and 1955-56.”
Test Career:
3 Matches, Runs 75, Batting Av. 12.50, 1 x 50, Top Score 56, Catches 4.
First Class Career:
32 Matches, 1834 Runs, Batting Av. 36.57, 3 x 100, 13 x 50, Top Score 162*, 10 Wickets, Bowling Av. 40.5, Best Bowling 3/16, 25 Catches.
Kim played for the College Rovers Club, the second oldest rugby club in Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa.
1954-55 Season:
Captain , Secretary ,
Played 15 Won 4 Lost 11 Drew 1
“For Fife v Perth & Angus: G. W. Adam, J.M. Davidson, A.L. Watt, D. B. Yeoman, For Midlands v North: G.W. Adam, Scottish Universities v South: G.W. Adam, J. M. Davidson, S.V. Tuff. The Scottish Universities matches against English Universities and Irish Universities were cancelled. Congratulations to I.S. Swann who played for the club 1948-52 and to M.K. Elgie who played for the club in 1952 and 1953, who both played in all four international matches this season.”
1955-56 Season:
Captain , Secretary J.J.B. Somerville.
Played 18 Won 3 Lost 15 Drew 0 Points For: 94 Against: 283
“K.G. Bett, front row forward, was sent off by the Referee in the match versus Jordanhill F.P. on 29th February 1956. Despite the witness of many who were present there, the decision of the referee to the Scottish Rugby Union was upheld and the player suspended from 29th February until 21st March. It was the first suspension in the history of the club and under the peculiar circumstances a most unfortunate occurrence for the team in general and the player in particular.
For Midlands v North: J. J.B. Somerville,
For Scottish Universities v English Universities: S. V. Tuff,
For Scottish Universities v South: S. V. Tuff, J. M. Anderson, S. G. Small,
Congratulations are due to M.K. Elgie who had a very large share in Middlesex’s feet of winning the English Counties Rugby Championship this season. Middlesex beat Devon 13-9 at Twickenham on 10th March 1956.
Congratulations also go to I.S. Swan who is now with 14 caps the veteran of the Scottish International side.”
J. J. B. Somerville (Hon. Sec.)
1956-57 Season:
Captain AK Dewar, Secretary SG Small,
Played 24, Won 10, Lost 13, Drew 1, Points For: 152, Against 210.
“Representative players from the university XV for season 1956-57 up until 19th February have been:
For Midlands v North: S.G. Small,
For North/Midlands v South: S. G. Small,
For North/Midlands v Edinburgh: S. G. Small,
For North/Midlands v Glasgow: S.G. Small,
For Scottish Universities(Past and Present) v South African Unis: N.J. Brow,
For Scottish Universities v English Universities: N.J. Brow, S.G. Small,
Congratulations to I.S. Swann who played for the club 1948-52, in being selected for Scotland for the first two internationals this year and in playing for the Scottish Universities (Past and Present) XV versus the Sables.
One of the club’s vice-presidents, Dr A.R. Moodie of “the Wynd” St Andrews realising the importance of kicking especially the place kick, in the modern game, has very kindly presented a trophy for annual competition, dor drop and place kicking, among the members of the club.
After the last match, the season was appropriately ended with the presentation of an engraved tankard to A.K. Dewar by the team in appreciation of a most inspiring and successful years captaincy.
Representative players from Varsity XV for final Scottish Universities match:
For Scottish Universities vc Scottish Borders XV: D.K. Anderson, R.F. Parkinson, S.G. Small,
For Fife Select XV v Edinburgh and Borders XV: T.B. Stewart, G.C. Stewart, S.G. Small”
S. G. Small (Hon. Sec.)
1957-58 Season:
Captain , Secretary D.K. Anderson,
Played 20, Won 13, Lost 6, Drew 1, Points For: 184, Against 154.
“Tour to Ireland: C.I.Y.M.S, Queen’s University Belfast, King’s Scholars.
At Perth on Saturday 12th April, the University crowned a fine season by winning the Midlands District Seven-a-side for the first time since 1954 and the third time in the 33 years of the tournament beating Howe of Fife 13-6 in the final.
Representative players from the university for season 1957-58, up until 5th March have been:
For Fife v Perth & Angus: G.C. Stewart, S.G. Small, R. Tindal,
For Perth & Angus v Fife: A. M. Nicol,
For Midlands v North: S.G. Small, A. M. Nicoll,
For North/Midlands v South: S.G. Small,
For North/Midlands v Glasgow: S.G. Small, R.K. Carruthers,
For North/Midlands v Edinburgh: S.G. Small, A.M. Nicoll,
For North/Midlands v Wallabies: S.G. Small,
For the Scottish Universities v English Universities: N.J. Brow, R. F. Parkinson, W.D. Philips, D.K. Anderson, R.K. Carruthers, N.J. Lillie, K.J. Dargie, G.C. Stewart.
During the first term the competition for the Moodie Trophy was held:
Winner: W.D. Phillips,
Runners Up: D.M. Moffat, A.M. Nicoll, R.F. Parkinson,
For Scottish Universities v Scottish Borders: G.C. Stewart, S.G. Small, N.J. Brow, R.F. Parkinson, R.K. Carruthers, W.D. Phillips and K.J. Dargie.”
D. K. Anderson (Hon. Sec.)
1958-59 Season:
Captain S.G. Small, Secretary C.G. Murray.
Played 18, Won 9, Lost 9, Drew 0, Points For: 211, Against 195.
“There is some mention of the on-field performance being below par during the 1950's and 60's; and to some extent this is correct. With embarrassment, I watched the University being given a hiding of approx 40 odd points to nil by Queen's University Belfast during the 1958/59 season. At the time, Queen's were very strong with a few Irish trialists in their ranks.” (Robert Taylor, 1959-62).
“Congratulations to R.F. Parkinson for being chosen to play in the final Lancashire trial and the three subsequent Lancashire county games; these in his favourite position at centre which he likes so much better than his wing position in St Andrews. We wish him all the best at St Edmund College Oxford next year.
The following played in representative matches:
Perth & Angus v Fife: A.M. Nicoll, D. J. Whyte, R.K. Carruthers, D.B. Yeaman, W.H. Brown,
Midlands v North: D.J. Whyte, W.H. Brown, A.M. Nicoll, S.G. Small,
North/Midlands v South: S.G. Small,
Also chosen for Edinburgh and Glasgow: D.J. Whyte,
Glasgow match cancelled, S.G. Small injured for the Edinburgh match. Both international Universities matches against England and Ireland were cancelled over the cold after R.F. Parkinson, D.J. Whyte, S.G. Small(captain) and K.J. Dargie were selected to play with A.M. Nicoll, D.M.G. Main, R.J. Bacon and G.C. Stewart as reserves.
The result of the Moodie Kicking Trophy was as follows:
Winner: J.V. Bowen,
Runnerup: W. D. Phillip.”
C. G. Murray (Hon. Sec.)
1959-60 Season:
Captain R.K. Carruthers, Secretary D. M. Moffat, Treasurer D Ross.
Played 21, Won 7, Lost 14, Drew 0, Points For: 129, Against: 242,
“After one match D.J. Whyte had to give up for fear of jeopardising his chances as an Olympic long-jumper, our best wishes go with him, we hope to Rome.
The following members of the club have played in representative games:
For Scottish Universities v English Universities at Hull: A.M. Nicoll, K.J. Dargie was unable to play due to injury. M.G. Hill, M. James, D. M. Moffat, J. Brooks and T.D. Ross were reserves.
For Scottish Universities v South: A.M. Nicoll, R.K. Carruthers, D.M. Moffat, K.J. Dargie withdrew due to injury, J. Brooks was a reserve.
For Perth & Angus v Fife at St Andrews: R.K. Carruthers, R. Ludlaw.”
D. M. Moffat (Hon. Sec.)
1960-61 Season:
Captain K.J. Dargie, Secretary JDR Willday,
Played 24, Won 15, Lost 7, Drew 2, Points For: 280, Against: 160.
“D.J. Whyte was chosen for both Scotland trials and distinguished himself playing opposite A.R. Smith. D. J. Whyte played for the North and Midlands against the South, Glasgow and the South Africans Scottish Univesities: D.J. Whyte, K.J. Dargie, A.M. Nicoll, Fife: D.J. Whyte, Perth & Angus: A.M. Nicoll,
Tour to Ireland: Queen’s University Belfast, King’s Scholars, Armagh.”
J. D. R. Willday (Hon. Sec.)
“There was a sequel to this match (see 1958/59 season) towards the end of season 1960/61 when St Andrews beat Queen's 3 points to nil at University Park and a few weeks later beat them 11 to 3 (I think) in Belfast. Queen's were still a strong side with at least 3 Internationals (Davie and Jimmy Hewitt and Jim Dick) plus a sprinkling of triallists in their teams.” (Robert Taylor, 1959-62).
“Our Seven's side (which from memory comprised John (JR) Clarke, Hugh Begg, Aly Nicol, Dave Whyte, Andy Wright, Jim Christie and R Taylor) played off in the final of the Midland Sevens and lost 8 to 5 against Perth Accies. As the score suggests, it could easily have gone the other way. Given our relatively short season, it was the only Sevens competition we played that year.” (Robert Taylor, 1959-62).
1961-62 Season:
Captain A.M. Nicoll, vice/captain D.J. Whyte, Secretary H. M. Begg, Treasurer A.W.V. Wright, Fixture Secretary W Adam.
Played 21, Won 6, Lost 14, Drew 1, Points For: 196, Against: 209.
“Election of Vice-Presidents: Wallace Adam, A.M. Carstairs, A. S. Strachan.
The following members of the club played representative matches:
D.J. Whyte played in both Scottish trials and was a travelling reserve versus Ireland.
John Clarke and Dave Whyte played for N/Midlands v Edinburgh, South and Glasgow.
John Clarke, Dave Whyte and Andy Wright played v Irish and English Universities and South XV and Peter Martin played v South XV.
The Moodie Trophy was won by A. Fraser, runner up D.J. Anderson.”
H. M. Begg (Hon. Sec.)
1962-63 Season:
Captain D.J. Whyte, v/capt M Barrat, Secretary H.M. Begg, Treasurer J. Cumming, Fixture Secretary G.W. Adam.
Played 20, Won 9, Lost 11, Drew 0, Points For: 198, Against: 146.
“Tour to Ireland: Old Wesleyons, University College, Trinity College.
The Moodie Trophy was won by J Christie.”
H. M. Begg (Hon. Sec.)
1963-64 Season:
Captain J.D. Cumming, Secretary C.P. Carter,
Played 26, Won 18, Lost 7, Drew 1, Points For 278, Against 158.
“The following members of the club played in representative matches:
B.W. Brown & C.P. Carter played for N/Midlands v Edinburgh, South & Glasgow. They also played for the North of Scotland against the All Blacks.
P.J. Hinchliff was chosen for N/Midland against Glasgow but could not play through injury.
T.J. Ellesmere was a travelling reserve for the North of Scotland against the All Blacks.
For Scottish Universities v English Universities at Leeds: J.D. Cumming (capt), T.J. Ellesmere, C.P. Carter, B.W. Brown, and M.G.S. Debenham.
For Scottish Universities v The South of Scotland: B.W. Brown, C.P. Carter, P.J. Hinchliff, D.T.M. Salmond and M.G.S. Debenham. T.J. Ellesmere was chosen to play but had to with draw through injury.
The Moodie Trophy was won by D. Fogden.
First time won the Cunningham Cup since 1957/8 season by beating Edinburgh University 8-3.
1963-4 season St Andrews won the Scottish University Championship.”
C. P. Carter (Hon. Sec.)
1964-65 Season:
Captain C. P. Carter,
Played 35, Won 18, Lost 11, Drew 6, Points For 441 Against 270.
“Irish Tour: Queen’s University Belfast, North Wednesday, Malone.
Won the seven-a-side tournament at Perth, beating Dundee High School F.P. 23-5 in the final.
The following members of the club played in representative matches:
For British Universities on their French Tour: C.P. Carter, T.J. Ellesmere.
For Scottish Universities v Irish Universities in Edinburgh: C.P. Carter(capt), T.J. Ellesmere, A.J. Gainer, D.T.M. Salmond.
For North/Midlands v South at Jedforest: C.P. Carter, A.J. Gainer, C.W.W. Rea. T.J. Ellesmere withdrew through injury.
For North/Midlands v Edinburgh at St Andrews: C.P. Carter, T.J. Ellesmere, A.J. Gainer.
For North/Midlands v Glasgow at Glasgow: C.P. Carter, T.J. Ellesmere, C.W.W. Rea.
For Midlands v North at Aberdeen: C.P. Carter, T.J. Ellesmere, C.W.W. Rea.
For Co-optimists in their R.F. Oakes Memorial Match: C.P. Carter
For Perth & Angus v Fife at Dundee: T.J. Ellesmere, T.G.C Thomas.
The Moodie Trophy was won by G.M. McPartlin.
Statistically the fourth best season since the war, the seven played extremely attractive rugby to win the Midlands District 7-a-side tournament at Perth.
Best wishes go to our Captain C.P. Carter who moves to Cambridge University next year.”
(Hon. Sec.)
1965-66 Season:
Captain Gerry McPartlin, Treasurer C.W.W. Rea.
Played 22 Won 12 Lost 10 Drew 0 Points For 228 Against 204
“The following members of the club played in representative matches:
For British Universities in their French tour: C.W.W. Rea,
For Scottish Universities v South of Scotland: C.N. Todd, K.G. McCurrach, C.W.W. Rea, D.H. Paul (match cancelled).
For Scottish Universities v Irish Universities: G.M. McPartlin(capt), C.W.W. Rea, D.H. Paul,
For Scottish Universities v Welsh Universities: G.M. McPartlin(capt), C.W.W. Rea, D.H. Paul, G.L. Desson.
For North/Midlands v South of Scotland: C.W.W. Rea,
For North/Midlands v Edinburgh: C.W.W. Rea,
For North/Midlands v Glasgow: C.W.W. Rea,
For Midlands v North: C.W.W. Rea, A.J. Gainer
For Perth & Angus v Fife: C.W.W. Rea
For Fife & Perth & Angus: C.N. Todd, J.G. Spencer, D.T. M. Salmond, D.H. Paul.
For a Dundee Representative XV v Glasgow Select: K.G. McCurrach, J. Jelliman, S.J. Tristram. C.W.W. Rea withdrew because of injury.
The Moodie Trophy was won by G.L. Desson.
Shared the Scottish Universities Championship with Edinburgh.
In the last year of joint St Andrews – Dundee membership of the University Rugby Club, I should like to say what good team mates the Dundee boys have been, but to warn them that all former friendships will be forgotten when we meet next year!
C.W.W. Rea is also to be congratulated on making the British Universities Party to tour the West Country and to play against the French Universities.”
“The Club's standing in the sixties was a very successful period, at a time when the standard of university rugby was extremely high. In 1966 Edinburgh University won the Scottish Club Championship beating some of the best teams in the country such as Hawick, Melrose and Gala, and in that same year they were joint winners of the Scottish Universities Championship - with St. Andrews. In 1966, the Club finished seventh in the Scottish Club Championship which then comprised the top 30 clubs in Scotland, in addition to winning a number of major sevens titles.” (Chris Rea, 1964-66).
With the formation of Dundee University apart from St. Andrews in 1966, selection was limited to St. Andrews students for the first time.
A decade after M.K. Elgie was capped for Scotland, D.J. Whyte made his debut for Scotland receiving his first cap against Wales.
D.J. Whyte
Edin Wand
1965: W, I, E, Sa
1966: F, W, I, E, A
1967: F, W, I, E
DAVID JAMES WHYTE Athletics and Rugby Union
Inducted into the University Hall of Fame: 27th April, 2007
Born: Cupar, Fife 1940
Connection: MA English 1963
“Finest achievement: Representing Great Britain aged 18 in the long jump and recording a distance of 23 feet 4 inches, 13 Scottish rugby caps, Barbarian, 8 Great Britain athletics vests.
Memory of St Andrews: Acting as the Jester at the Kate Kennedy Procession and being hunted down by a horde of children.
Sporting achievements: David was one of a rare breed winning a GB Athletics vest in his first year of undergraduate studies aged 18. Apart from his main event of long jump David also was more than a capable sprinter (100 yards personal best 10secs), triple jumper and high jumper. He won the AAA long jump title aged 19 in 1959, Scottish AAA Champion 1959, 1960 and 1966, a British and Irish Lions reserve 1961 and had 13 Scottish rugby caps 1965-7.” Taken from the University Hall of Fame
1966-67 Season:
Captain M Singer,
Played 29 Won 12 Loat 15 Drew 2
“Tour to London: Old Merchant Taylors, Henley, Guy’s Hospital.
The following members of the club played in representative matches:
For Scottish Universities v Glasgow District: M.I.C. Singer, R.H. Dakin, D.H. Paul (reserve),
For Scottish Universities v U.A.U. and Welsh Universities: M.I.C. Singer,
For Midlands District ‘A’ v Midlands District Union: M.I.C. Singer(capt).
The Moodie Trophy was won by R.H. Dakin.
This year – the first in which St Andrews and Dundee have been split – Sir John Carmichael kindly presented a trophy to be contended annually in the St Andrews v Dundee match. This year St Andrews University chalked up a comfortable 14-0 victory over their rivals thereby taking the trophy for its first year.”
(Hon. Sec.)
1967-68 Season:
Captain P.J.G. Smith, Treasurer P.E. Morris.
Played 24 Won 6 Lost 18 Drew 0 Points For 175 Against 372.
“The following members of the club played in representative matches:
For Scottish Universities v London Universities, A.U.A., Welsh Universities: C.N. Todd,
For Midlands District “A” v Midland District Union C.N. Todd (game cancelled)
For Fife v Perth & Angus: P.J.G. Smith
For Perth & Angus v Fife: R.J. Rawlinson
The Moodie Trophy was won by D.G. Stephenson.
It is not possible to make the report without mentioning the visit of the University of the Orange Free State…As was expected trouble arose over the political issue of Apartheid. On the day of the game, play was held up for approximately twenty minutes by the students from Dundee University demonstrating on the pitch – several were arrested by the police. When the game eventually got underway we saw a very entertaining game of rugby by both teams, the combined St Andrews – Dundee team winning 11-0.
Also I would like to thank our retiring President, Sir John Carmichael, for the services he has given to the club in the past.”
(Hon. Sec.)
1968-69 Season:
Captain D Rawlinson, Secretary A Smithyman, Treasurer I.W. Stewart,
Played 26 Won 7 Lost 11 Drew 3
“Graduates Match v Old St Andreans: The game was played on a beautiful sunny afternoon and proved to be very fast, very open and consequently most enjoyable, the visitors winning by two tries to one goal. After the match both teams joined the other club members for the Annual Dinner at Peat Inn and it is hoped this match will also become an annual event.
Playing for the ex-St Andrews team:
A.Wright, G. Ritchie, G. Shaw, G. Hadley, J. Whelton, D. Salmond, R. Dakin, G. Desson, D. Harlington, S. Tristram, D. Paul, K. McCurrach, T. Ellesmere, G. McPartlin.
Before closing this report I should like to thank Mr G Wallace Adam for the services he has given to the club in his post as Honorary Fixture Secretary. Mr Adam who captained the University side in 1954-55 has held this post since 1960-61 but has had to resign due to business reasons.
Congratulations to Chris Rea who played for the university until 1966 on being capped for Scotland this season in all their internationals.”
A Smithyman (Hon. Sec.)
Chris WW Rea
W Scot, Headingley
1968: A
1969: F, W, I, Sa
1970: F, W, I, A
1971: F, W, E, EC
Chris Rea, a member of the St Andrews 1st XV between 1964 and 66, captained the British Universties in 1966 and gained 13 Scottish caps at centre between 1968 and 71 scoring three tries. Other clubs played for included West of Scotland and Headingly.
His first cap was won in the 9-3 victory against Australia in November 1968 signalled the start of a 4 year Scotland career that ended as it had begun, in victory, this time 26-6 against England on 27th March 1971 in the game marking that particular fixture’s centenary. Not only did Chris score a try in the game but it was his second victory over England in that month, having been part of the squad that won the previous weeks 5 Nations meeting between the two sides.
He was also a member of the victorious 1971 British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand and Australia, referred to by many as the greatest ever to leave these shores and which won admiration of the rugby world by the magnificent achievement of becoming the first side ever to win a test series in New Zealand. Although picked as a centre, Chris played mostly as a fly-half during the tour due to injuries in the squad. He played 10 games for the tourists and scored three tries.
After his playing career ended, Chris became a highly successful sports journalist before applying his communication skills as the IRB media manager.
1969-70 Season:
Captain David Bell, Secretary John Drummond,
Played 29 Won 13 Lost 15 Drew 2 Points For 422 Against 366
“Dunfermline became the first side to win our seven-a-side tournament by beating Madras 19-8 in the final after extra time. The Women’s match served as a most enjoyable prelude to the final though it is not certain whether or not the Scottish Rugby Union were in accord with this. It is hoped that the tournament will be an annual one as it would appear that all the clubs participating were in favour of the league system which ensured more than one game and in consequence no team’s journey was entirely worthless.
The following Monday the University proceeded to dispose mercilessly of a Graduates XV containing one current Scottish Internationalist and a couple of district players by playing attractive open rugby as the score line of 34-14 would suggest.
The following members of the club have played in representative matches:
North /Midlands v South of Scotland: J.R. Rawlinson.
North of Scotland v 1970 Springboks: J.R. Rawlinson, D.L. Bell (reserve)
North/Midlands v Glasgow: D.L. Bell (withdrew through injury)
Scottish Universities v North/Midlands: J.R. Rawlinson, D.L. Bell
Scottish Universities v London University: D.L. Bell
Scottish Universities v Glasgow: D.L. Bell (capt)
Scottish Universities v U.A.U.: D.L. Bell (capt)
Scottish Universities v Welsh Universities: D.L. Bell (capt) (match cancelled due to weather)
Midlands Under 23 XV v Midlands District Junior XV: D.L. Bell, D.H. Borrowman (withdrew through injury)
Midlands Under 23 XV v Midlands District Union, North Under 23 XV, Edinburgh Under 23 XV: D.L. Bell (capt), D.H. Borrowman, K.D. Isles
Fife v Perth & Angus: J.R. Rawlinson
North Under 23 XV v Midlands Under 23 XV: A. Moffat, L. Doig
North/Midlands Under 23 XV v London Scottish: D.L. Bell (capt) L. Doig.
Easter Tour to Cambridge and London 22nd March-27th March 1970: Cambridge County, Orleans RFC, Old Creightonians RFC. The first match of the tour was against Cambridge County in Cambridge on the Monday evening. The University were not at full strength being minus key men through injury but none the less tackled a side containing two English trialists, six East Midlands players and the rest local county players…
Sevens Trophy: E.P. Drummond Esq. kindly presented the club with a trophy to be competed for annually in the university seven-a-side tournament. For this the club extends him our thanks and are insistent on the fact that next season he will make the presentation to the winners.
Vice-Presidents: The following were invited to become Vice-Presidents of the club from season 1970-71 onwards and we are delighted that they were all able to accept E.P. Drummond Esq, D.Y. Veitch Esq, I. Breioster Esq, Dr J. Borrowman, I. Isles Esq, J. Craig Esq.
University 7-a-side tournament held by Herriot-Watt University: St Andrews playing some superb rugger reached the final of this tournament and only narrowly lost to Edinburgh University in an extremely exciting final played on the Murrayfield International pitch. The University finished runners up as Edinburgh won 24-22. Numerous tries were scored and St Andrews were unlucky that Dave Bell missed the vital conversion which would have levelled the scores and put the match into extra time.
The Moodie Trophy was not awarded this season.”
J Drummond (Hon. Sec.)
1970-71 Season:
Captain Keith Isles, Secretary J. Drummond,
Played 38 Won 10 Lost 26 Drew 2
“Dutch Tour, Rotterdam, September 1970: In late September eighteen members of the University Rugby Club assembled at Harwich for an adventure to Holland. In fact we were competing in an International Student’s tournament organised by the Dutch to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the rebuilding of Rotterdam. Teams from all over Europe were participating and St Andrews were Scotland’s representatives, whilst a strong combined Newcastle and Durham Universities team represented England. FULL TOUR REPORT TO FOLLOW: Belgium Universities, Durham/Newcastle XV, University of Paris, Dutch Universities.”
“The following members of the club have played in representative matches during the season:
Scottish Universities v North/Midlands: D.H. Borrowman, N.M.C.N. Alford,
North/Midlands v Edinburgh: D.H. Borrowman
Scottish Universities v London Unversities: D.H. Borrowman, K.D. Isles, N. Alford withdrew through injury, C.A. O’Donnell (reserve)
Scottish Universities v English Universities: D.H. Borrowman, N. Alford injured and did not play though selected. K.D. Isles (reserve)
Scottish Universities v Glasgow District: D.H. Borrowman, D.B.S. Stephenson
Scottish Universities v Welsh Universities: D.H. Borrowman, D.B.S. Stephenson, K.D. Isles, C.A. O’Donnell were reserves.
North/Midlands v Glasgow: D.H. Borrowman
Midlands v North: D.B.S. Stephenson
Midlands Universities v Midlands Under 23 XV: D.H. Borrowman, K.D. Isles, J. Robertson, A Moffat, L.T. Doig, I. Mallard.
Midlands Under 23 XV v Midlands District Union: D.H. Borrowman, L.T. Doig, K.D. Isles
Midlands Under 23 XV v North Under 23 XV: D.H. Borrowman, N. M.C.N. Alford, K.D. Isles, L.T. Doig, (A.G. Bell played for the North)
North/Midlands Under 23 XV v Edinburgh Under 23 XV: D.H. Borrowman.
Congratulations to last year’s captain David Bell who won an Oxford Blue at Twickenham this year. Dave playing at stand-off for Oxford scored a try and dropped a goal in their defeat of Cambridge.
Subsequently his appearance at Murrayfield was no surprise in the first trial. It was unfortunate however that injury forced him to withdraw from the Final Trial. His time will come nevertheless.
Sixteen clubs from all over Scotland took part in our seven-a-side tournament the following Wednesday (3rd February 1971). The tournament proved to be a great success and the eventual winners, Kelso thrilled us all by a fine display of seven-a-side rugby. Dunfermline were unfortunate to come up against Kelso in the first round as this would have made a likely final. However, they went on to win the Loser’s Plate. Dundee University and Edinburgh University were the beaten semi-finalists and Kelvinside were runners up to Kelso. We were glad that the cup and the replicas went to the Borders as more top teams might now be encouraged to participate. Next year we are planning to have the tournament in March, just before the seven’s season begins – this should be incentive enough for clubs to compete.
Midlands 7s 3rd Place, Universities Tournament, Murrayfield Losers Plate Winners
…we had defeated the University Graduates by 16 points to 14. Containing several top Scottish and English players notably the country’s top scorer this season, Phil Carter, the Yorkshire county captain, this side produced open attractive rugby and we proved we could match it.
The Moodie Trophy was won by M.J. Stanley”
J Drummond (Hon. Sec.)
1971-72 Season:
Captain David Borrowman, Secretary R.J. Taylor,
Played 38 Won 14 Lost 20 Drew 4 Points For 512 Against 582
“The pre-sessional went exceedingly well thereafter, with a visit by Bill Dickinson, the Scottish Coach, on the Sunday which led to implementation of many new ploys.
For the second season in succession we defeated Edinburgh University.
Wednesday 1st March saw the sevens tournament at University Park. Seventeen teams participated in our Sevens this year. Some excellent rugby was seen with Kelso once again carrying off the trophy. It was a particularly good afternoon for St Andrews. We beat Madras F.P. in the first round, Aberdeen Wednesday Club in the second and Dundee University in the semi-finals. In the final we met Kelso who were a cut above us and worthy winners. Last years winners of the Losers Plate, Dunfermline once more lost in the first round and eventually found themselves in the Losers final against Glasgow High. Kelso had an aggregate of 116 points against 20 in their four ties: they enjoyed a liberal share of the ball and always played fast and attractive rugby. There were no serious rivals and even a Border Select including A.R. Irvine and D.P. Clarke (Heriot’s F.P.), G.W. Turnbull (Jedforest) and R.C. Proudfort (Edinburgh Wanderers) were swept aside. Kelso’s outstanding performance lay in a well-balanced side with scrum half I. Gillespie and the tall forward J. Hewitt, each of whom scored eight tries and J Fleming a speedy three quarter who finished as their top scorer with 30 points, mostly from goal kicks.
On Monday the Graduates match was staged. The University Graduates captained by Dave Bell and with Hugh Begg as pack leader played an inspired game and surpassed themselves in beating the University by 19 points to 13.
A mention must be made of our most formidable winger Neal McNeil Alford who is to be congratulated on his selection for British Universities to play against French Universities at Llanelli on 24th March 1972.
Tour to Jersey, March 1972: Jersey XV, Jersey RFC, Jersey United Banks, Jersey Beechers O.Bs. …That evening we were back on form. Memories of the hotel manager being tackled in the middle of the dance floor will live forever. Indeed this was a tour to end all tours with the captain, Dave Borrowman, scoring his first try for the University in fifteen-a-side rugby in his last match.”
R. J. Taylor (Hon. Sec.)
1972-73 Season:
Captain Eric Lambert, Secretary C Hatt,
Played 26 Won 10 Lost 15 Drew 1 Points For 258 Against 367
“As in previous years a pre-seasonal training week was held in St Andrews. This was quite well attended by members of the club and was greatly helped by a new member of the Physical Education Centre Staff, Mr John Scott. Mr Scott took over the coaching and training during the pre-seasonal and in fact throughout the season.
The game against the Graduates resulted in an 18-3 defeat but was followed by an excellent dinner in the Star Hotel.
14 teams contested our annual sevens tournament including the winners last year Kelso and the Stanley Plate winners of last year Glasgow H.S.F.P. On a cold but dry day some excellent rugby was seen and Dundee University must be congratulated on their excellent performance, losing only to Watsonians in the Final.”
“After arranging a tour to the Lake District and arranging fixtures with Workington Zebras, Keswick and Penrith, it had to be cancelled due to lack of support from members of the club.
After retiring the committee, Eric Lambert presented John Scott with a bottle of whisky for his services to the club throughout the season, which were often for an excess of the terms of his employment at the P.E. centre.”
C. Hatt (Hon. Sec.)
By the formation of the leagues in 1974, the club was placed in Division 5 East and later the National Division 6 for the 1975-76 season.
1973-74 Season:
Captain S Easteal, Secretary D Reid, Vice Capt A. Hood, Treasurer T King, Fixtures Sec D Smith.
1975-76 Season:
Captain , Secretary Bob Ramsay.
Played 24 Won 8 Lost 12 Drew 3 Points For 305 Against 310
“This year the SRU created another league division making a total of seven in all. St Andrews are now in the sixth division which was formed as an amalgamation of the middle sections of division five east and division five west.
After beating the Graduates we retired to the Brownhills Hotel for our annual dinner Larry Lamb of international referee fame gave an exceptionally good speech…”
B. Ramsay (Hon. Sec.)
David Bell
Watsonians
1975: I, F, W, E
1976-77 Season:
Captain N. Wood, Secretary D Watt, Treasurer D Cowan, Vice-Capt Paolo Collett,
Played 27 Won 14 Lost 13 Drew 0 Points For 389 Against 337
“Representative Matches:
Scottish Universities v North/Midlands U23
v Edinburgh U23
v English Universities
v Welsh Universities:
N Wood, P Collett
British Universities v French Universities P. Collett (non travelling reserve)
Midlands U23 v North U23: A Hood (captain)
North and Midlands U23 v Scottish Universities: A Hood (injured, unable to play)
v Glasgow U23: A. Hood
v Edinburgh U23: A. Hood(captain)
Midlands District Unionv Glasgow: A. Hood
v Edinburgh: A. Hood.
Three of our players achieved representative status during the season. Paolo Collett, our full-back and outstanding player and Neil Wood, the captain, both played in all Scottish Universities matches and Paolo was a non-travelling reserve for the British Universities match. (Paolo was selected as a winger). Alan Hood, scrum half and past captain, in his 5th year in the side was selected as captain of the Midlands U23, also North/Midlands U23 in one match and was a reserve for the Midlands District Union matches. These three players deserve their congratulations, it is the first time we have had two regular Scottish universities players for several seasons.
The sevens was again a considerable success although several teams withdrew at the last minute as they did last year. The tournament was won by Glenrothes who beat Howe of Fife in an excellent final, in extra time. The University 7 again did well, losing the semi-final to Howe in a very close match by one try.
Tour to West country & Cornwall: Bath Combination XV, Camborne, St Ives, Salcombe, Torquay XV.”
D. Watt (Hon. Sec.)
1977-78 Season:
Captain N Wood, Vice-capt DJT Watt, Secretary M Hodding, Treasurer JW Storey
Played 15 Won 9 Lost 6 Drew 0 Points For 294 Against 95.
“Further victories left us poised to beat Aberdeen University and take the University Championship on St Andrews Day.
Congratulations must be given to Neil Wood, John Storey, Paolo Collett and Dave Watt for representing Scottish Universities and to Ian Diamond and Alan Hood for representing the North and Midlands.”
M. Hodding (Hon. Sec.)
1978-79 Season:
Captain N Stirling, Secretary G Hetheringham, Treasurer R Lee, Vice-capt D Dodson, Social A Jones.
Played 25 Won 14 Lost 11 Drew 0
“Representative honours have been few this season. Incredibly we only had one player in the Scottish Universities squad, winger Ian Benson, who only got one game in their visit to London. The loss was clearly theirs rather than ours and they didn’t seem to do very well without St Andrews players. Ian Diamond deserves special congratulations for being selected for the Midlands despite having been injured all season.
The sevens tournament was the first rugby seen in St Andrews for months and was an excellent days play competently organised by George Finlay. The tournament featured no less than three St Andrews teams and was won by Glenrothes (again) with Edinburgh Wanderers as runners up. Glasgow Academy were defeated by Watsonians featuring Alan Hood in the final of the Stanley Plate. Most distinguished performances came from St Andrews 1st VII which beat Watsonians and Ian Diamond’s Nomads who took Glasgow Academy to extra time. Mr Tom Pearson again presented the trophies.
Tour to Grenoble, March 1979: Grenoble University, G.U.C., Seyssins.”
G Hetheringham (Hon. Sec.)
1979-80 Season:
Captain G MacNaughton, Secretary Paul Corbett, Treasurer WJ McKinny, Social A Jones, vice-capt PS Bell.
Played 23 Won 7 Lost 16 Drew 0 Points For 220 Points Against 302.
“Our annual sevens took place under the excellent organisation of Mike Taylor and volunteers. Glenrothes won yet again against Edinburgh Wanderers in the final and Howe of Fife won the plate competition. We fielded two teams due to Hilhead’s absence and neither reached the second round. The first team won their first plate match but were beaten by How of Fife in the next round.
Representative honours have been sparse this season. Joe McKinney went on tour with Scottish Universities to Lancashire last Autumn and is present with them in London. Puolo Collett has played for Midland District Union side against South, Glasgow and is also to play against Edinburgh next week. Grant Cumming was captain of the Midlands U23 side which played the North last Tuesday.
The dinner took place in the St Andrews Hotel on a date in March which few of us remember. The main speaker was John Rutherford, the Selkirk, South and Scotland Stand-off whose humour was greatly appreciated by those still capable of more than the primary human functions. Most improved player Charlie Parker, piss artist of the year PM, clubman of the year hamstring.”
P. Corbett (Hon. Sec.)
1980-81 Season:
Captain PS Bell, Secretary MZ Hamid, Treasurer J Corin, vice-captain P Pomeroy
Played 23 Won 3 Lost 17 Drew 3 Points For 149 Against 506
“On Wednesday 25th February the annual 7s tournament organised by Martin Smith was held in fine conditions. Glenrothes winning again by beating Dundee H.S.F.P. in the final. The University 1st VII won the plate beating Watsonians before hammering Glasgow High 30-14 in the final.
Once more this has been a slack season for representative ho
Andrew Lang, who came from Edinburgh Academy as an original member of St. Leonard's Hall is quoted as saying "Rugby football and golf and cricket were much more in our thoughts than the historical associations of the place", and indeed in November 1863 the hand written St. Leonard's Magazine mentioned that "Our football club has been found for the session or season under circumstances of unexampled prosperity. Our subtle thanks to his energy and zeal in four years of captaincy" although it did not mention any names, it is thought unlikely to have been that same "Old Rugby boy" but a certain Charles Stewart.
(St. Leonard's Magazine of the 1860's was written entirely by Andrew Lang)
At this time it was thought of at the forefront of varsity activity together with golf and cricket, as exemplified in the very same article; "Play hard and keep at it and while you are about it, let your training, your muscular exertion and high spirits lead you to a place in the XV, and being in that enviable position, play to win." The XV being mentioned here is probably the hall XV as at this stage the University and St. Leonards formed two separate clubs.
The form of the game at this point appeared to vary between fifteens and twenties, whilst in the University it was generally played by, "a lot of heavy strongmen, highlanders some of them." Despite their strength within the University, they had to go far a field to get a team to meet them so that many of their matches were intra-University.
As to the standard of rugby at this time, it is unsure although one former student, Christopher Nicolson Johnston (Lord Sands to be) had few doubts; "St. Andrews was the Scottish nursery of rugby football and the St. Andrews University team was second to none.
If 'carrying' was initiated at Rugby, 'passing', the great feature of the back game, came from St. Andrews where it was started by H.L. Dick and A. Thom." Dick and Thom however did not get any recognition as international footballers and so their true qualities could never be assessed.
“It is perhaps not generally known that St Andrews was the nursery of Rugby football in Scotland in the 'sixties of last century, when clubs were being formed in the great towns and school teams were being organised. The first batch of famous players just before the days of internationals, were St Andrews men. The Edinburgh Wanderers, which is still going strong, started as the "St Andrews Wanderers," formed by St Andrews men who had found their way to Edinburgh. Matches and competitions now predominate. Then the game predominated. A match was a special and rare event. A game with sides picked on the spot was the normal form of the sport.” Lord Sands.
In 1871 in the first international between Scotland and England at Raeburn Place, two St. Andrews students, A. Clunies-Ross and R. Munro are seen to have represented Scotland showing the importance of the club at this time.
“Alfred was born around 1851 on Cocos. After attending Madras College he then studied medicine in Edinburgh and during 1873 worked at St George's Hospital in London.. E.W. Birch in his government report around 1885 wrote of Alfred: "He was a medical student but did not graduate. He lives at the Cocos and is the doctor of the place. He is a bachelor, an exceedingly well-informed man, talks well on most subjects, and is very popular with the natives. He is an excellent carpenter." He married his cousin Ellen at Cocos in 1886 and they had 5 children.
The "St Andrews Gazette" records a cricket match played between St Andrews University and Madras College in March 1864 (Madras won by 21 runs) and mentions "the very clever hitting and fielding of Affie Ross, a lively and smart little fellow, to all appearances not yet reached his teens". He is also recorded playing a football fixture on 9th January, 1869 at the Baxter Park, Dundee against Aberdeen University. He is there referred to as Alf Ross and his brother Alex Ross was also in the team. Alfred was also an excellent Rugby Football player. During his stay in Edinburgh he played in the very first Rugby Football International between Scotland and England. The Rugby Football Union was newly formed and the first fixture they arranged was a match on 27th March 1871 at Raeburn Place, Edinburgh, between Scotland and England. Alfred was in the Scottish XX team that day. The result was a victory for Scotland. He subsequently played for the Wasps (1874-80) during his time in London. In 1888 Alfred went to work in North Borneo. In 1901 he became seriously ill and moved to Singapore. He returned to Cocos to recuperate in 1902 but died in 1903.” www.madras.fife.sch.uk/archive
In 1871, due to heightened interest in Rugby in Scotland, pressure mounted on the playing of an International. Following a meeting on 5th December, representatives of four Scottish Clubs (Edinburgh Academicals, West of Scotland, Glasgow Academicals, and University of St Andrews), wrote to B.H. Burns, the Secretary of Blackheath.
The letter of challenge issued on behalf of the Senior Scottish Clubs:
Sir,
There is a pretty general feeling among Scotch football players that the football power of the old country was not properly represented in the late so-called International Football Match. Not that we think the play of the gentlemen who represented Scotland otherwise than very good - for that it was so is amply proved by the stout resistance they offered to their opponents and by the fact that they were beaten by only one goal - but that we consider the Association rules, in accordance with which the late game was played, not such as to bring together the best team Scotland could turn out. Almost all the leading clubs play by the Rugby Code, and have no opportunity of practising the Association game even if willing to do so. We therefore feel that a match played in accordance with any rules other than those in general use in Scotland, as was the case in the last match, is not one that would meet with support generally from her players. For our satisfaction, therefore, and with a view of really testing what Scotland can do against an English team we, as representing the football interests of Scotland, hereby challenge any team selected from the whole of England, to play us a match, twenty-a-side, Rugby rules, either in Edinburgh or Glasgow on any day during the present season that might be found suitable to the English players. Let this count as the return to the match played in London on 19th November, or, if preferred, let it be a separate match. If it be entered into we can promise England a hearty welcome and a first-rate match. Any communications addressed to any one of us will be attended to.
We are, etc.
A. H. Robertson, West of Scotland FC
F. J. Moncrieff, Edinburgh Academical FC
B. Hall Blyth, Merchistonian FC
J. W. Arthur, Glasgow Academical FC
J. H. Oatts, St Salvador FC, St Andrews
The first ever international match: Scotland v England played at Raeburn Place in Edinburgh, Monday 27th March 1871, in front of a crowd of 4000 (Scotland won by one goal and one try to one try, the teams were 20-a-side and Halves were 50 minutes each). The try was awarded after a 10 minute argument, leading to a famous aphorism by Dr. H.H. Almond (1832-1903), the Scottish umpire: "I must say, however, that when an umpire is in doubt, I think he is justified in deciding against the side which makes the most noise. They are probably in the wrong." (H.H. Almond did much to establish rugby in Scotland and to develop the game as a handling game).
The scores for Scotland were obtained by Angus Buchanan, from whose try W. Cross kicked a goal, but he was unsuccessful in his attempt to convert the second try which he scored himself. The English try was credited to R. H. Birkett, but F. Stokes, the English captain, was unsuccessful with the place kick.
England
A. G. Guillemard (West kent) - Back, A. Lyon (Liverpool) - Back, R. R. Osbourne (Manchester) - Back, W. Maclaren (Manchester) Three-quarter back, J. E. Bentley (Gipsies) - Half-back, F. Tobin (Liverpool) - Half-back, J. F. Green (West kent) - Half-back, F. Stokes (Blackheath), Captain, R. H. Birkett (Clapham Rovers), B. H Burns (Blackheath), J. H. Clayton (Liverpool), C. A. Crompton (Blackheath), A. Davenport (Ravenscourt Park), J. M. Dugdale (Ravenscourt Park), A. S. Gibson (Manchester), A. St. G. Hamersley (Marlborough Nomads), J. H. Luscombe (Gipsies), C. W. Sherrard (Blackheath), D. P. Turner (Richmond), H. J. C. Turner (Manchester).
Scotland
W. D. Brown (Glasgow Academicals) - Back, T. Chalmers (Glasgow Academicals) - Back, A. Clunies-Ross (St. Andrews University) - Back, J. W. Arthur (Glasgow Academicals) - Half-back, F. Cross (Merchistonians - Half-back, T. R. Marshall (Edinburgh Academicals), F. I. Moncrieff (Edinburgh Academicals), Captain, A. Buchanan (Edinburgh University), A. B. Colville (Merhistonians), A. Drew (Glasgow Academicals), W. Forsyth (Edinburgh University), F. Finlay (Edinburgh Academicals), R. Irvine (Edinburgh Academicals), W. Lyall (Edinburgh Academicals), H. Mein (Edinburgh Academicals), J. W. McFarlane (Edinburgh University), D. Munro (St. Andrews University), T. Ritchie (Merhistonians), F. Robertson (West of Scotland), J.S. Thomson (Glasgow Academicals).
A match report was carried on page 5 of the Glasgow Herald on 28 March 1871 next to an article on coursing.
The importance of the club was further exemplified when a meeting of "all Members of Clubs playing the Rugby Union Rules" were invited to a meeting on 3rd March 1872 and St. Andrews University was represented by two officials (one of whom, the Captain P. Anton was later to play for Scotland against England in 1873) and so the club is termed a Founder member of the Union as recorded in the minutes of the first A.G.M. in October 1873.
P.Anton
1873: E
“The late Peter Anton, afterwards minister of Kilsyth, and, I think, one of Scotland's team in the first international, was a very tall and a very powerful man. He was an all-round athlete, as was shown by the fact that he carried off both the hammer and the hundred yards. Now Peter made a bet with some of his chums that he would single-handed play ten Madras schoolboys. A crowd assembled to see the match. Hacking, which was then lawful, was barred for the occasion. The match did not last a quarter of an hour. Peter was hopelessly outclassed or rather outnumbered, and after several goals had been scored against him, he chucked it. I can well remember how, when this happened, another student - a divinity student, too - who had a bet with Anton exclaimed: "Now for the beer!"” Lord Sands
The Edinburgh Academicals Football Club convened a series of meetings and, in 1868, with the agreement of the other schools and clubs, set out and had printed rules for the game in Scotland. The resulting booklet Laws of Football as played by the Principal Clubs in Scotland, became known as The Green Book. Alas, no copy survives but it is worthy of note that neither the clubs nor The Green Book felt it necessary to include the word 'Rugby' in their title.
Indeed, the Scottish Football Union, formed in 1873, did not alter its name to become the Scottish Rugby Union until 1924 - the year prior to the opening of Murrayfield.
The club continued successfully, gaining fixtures, although the number never rose above ten in a season, and were regarded to be in a "prominent position among the northern clubs," but by the end of the nineteenth century the Honourable Secretary Mr. A. Stoddard Murray "regretted the low state to which the club had come to due to general apathy and that the club should uphold the once famous name of the St. Andrews Varsity XV."
At the turn of the century the club moved from Station Park to University Park. The grounds at University Park also known as Carnegie Playing fields were gifted to the University in 1904 by Andrew Carnegie.
A pavilion was constructed and for the first time the shirts changed to the distinctive navy blue from red. With these improvements the form of the club rose, appearing in several North of Scotland Cup Finals and annually having a number of players selected for the North district.
Indeed on 20th March 1909 the captain noted that "A.R. Moodie of this club was capped in the Scotland v England international at Richmond - HURRAH!" A.R. Moodie was the first internationalist since
P. Anton in 1873.
A.R. Moodie
1910: F
1911: F
This period was a high point for the club. Not only Moodie but R.C. Stevenson and C.C.P. Hill earned caps before the War whilst University Park enjoyed its first of many representative fixtures.
C.C.P. Hill
1912: F, I
R.C. Stevenson
1910: F, I, E
1911: F, W, I
However the club slumped during the War and it was only at the end of the 1920's that anything of its pre-war standing was regained with a much improved fixture list and J.S. Wilson gaining caps in 1931 and 1932.
J.S. Wilson
1931: F, W, I, E
1932: E
By the 1934-35 season the club had been raised to championship status and two of its players in this side went on to play for Scotland; D.J. Macrae (1937-39 whilst still at University) and R.B. Bruce-Lockhart on leaving St Andrews.
D.J. Macrae
1937: W, I, E
1938: W, I, E
1939: W, I, E
“Duncan MacRae MC was educated at the Academy and played in the Accies team that won the Hawick Sevens in 1935/6 (a team that incidentally included Ben Tod). After the Academy he went on to study at St Andrews University where he gained nine caps for Scotland - winning on his debut away in Wales in February 1937 and playing in the victory over England at Twickenham in 1938 - and was a British Lion, going on the tour to South Africa in 1938.” (c/o Edinburgh Academicals Website)
R.B. Bruce-Lockhart
Cambridge University, London Scottish)
1937: I
1939: I, E
During the 2nd World War the club "maintained its high standard as one of the best clubs in Scotland" which was highlighted by a victory at Waterloo on December 22nd 1945 over the English Universities by 20 points to 3.
1942-43 Season:
Blues: J.L. Hilton, R. Lind, Bej. R.D.A. Smith, D.H. Prevan and J.L. Lindsay
1943-44 Season:
Captain D.H. Prevan, Secretary J.L. Lindsay, Treasurer J.L. Hilton.
Played 15 Won 11 Lost 3 Drew 1 Points For: 197 Against 55
Blues: D. Allardyce, A. Munro, J. Paton.
“An extraordinary Meeting was held on 25th January 1944 to fill the vacancy of Hon. Secretary due to the departure of J.L. Lindsay who went to serve on H.M. Forees. W.N. Niven was unanimously appointed to fill the position.”
J.L. Lindsay (Hon. Sec.)
1944-45 Season:
Captain R.R. Stevenson, Secretary W.N. Niven, Treasurer A.L. Stead.
Played 10 Won 8 Lost 2 Drew 0 Points For: 116 Against 23
“Blues: R.R. Stevenson, W.N. Niven, Bej Cooper, R.D. Mills, I. Petrie, Bej Newsome, Bej Dickinson.
Due to an outbreak of infantile paralysis (polio) the University as placed under a quarantine order and the fixtures with Edinburgh and Glasgow Universities had to be cancelled.
13th January-3rd February 1945 all games cancelled due to frost and snow.”
W. N. Niven (Hon. Sec.)
1945-46 Season:
Captain W.N. Niven, Secretary T.B. Cooper, Treasurer G. Howie.
Played 15 Won 10 Lost 4 Drew 1 Points For: 154 Against 74
“Blues: G. Howie, R. W. Grant, Bej Ross, A.R. Murray, A. Mann.
Scottish Universities: R.D. Mills (England, Kiwis, Ireland), G. Howie (Kiwis, Ireland), I Ross (Kiwis) A Stead (Ireland) A.R. Murray (England), A. Mann (Ireland).”
T. B. Cooper (Hon. Sec.)
1946-47 Season:
Captain T.B. Cooper, Secretary Bej Ross, Treasurer Bej Pride.
Played 7 Won 2 Lost 2 Drew 2 Points For: 109 Against 57.
“Hon Sec I.A. Ross was called up before he could fulfil his role and so the books were not filled in for the first 6 games of the season. G. Pride was elected Hon Sec and only received the books in the Second Term.”
G. L. Pride (Hon. Sec.)
1947-48 Season:
President Prof Graham M.A. D.Sc, Captain P.W. Grant, Secretary G.L. Pride, Treasurer W.D.T. Baxter.
Played 9 Won 4 Lost 4 Drew 1 Points For: 124 Against 90.
“Joseph Lorimer Lindsay was both a Rugby Blue and a Golf Blue. He was the first student world-wide to win the Boyd Quaich immediately after WW2. Sadly he died aged 37.”
G. L. Pride (Hon. Sec.)
1948–1949 Season:
Captain J.K. Whyte, Secretary J.L. Lindsay, Treasurer J.E. Matthews.
Played 18 Won 4 Lost 12 Drawn 2
“A.S. Thomson brought great honour to the club – one of the oldest in Scotland – by gaining his cap for the match with Ireland after having acted as traveling reserve in Paris and at Murrayfield of the Welsh game. He was also reserve in attendance at Twickenham. H. Scott, after appearing in all trials for Scotland including the trial at Murrayfield, was reserve in attendance at Twickenham and at Murrayfield for the Irish match and played for the Rest of Scotland v The Army at Glasgow.
J.K. Whyte, A.S. Thomson, H. Scott and J.L. Lindsay played for Scottish Universities v English Universities at Old Anniesland on February 22nd. Scottish Universities won 22-14.
The following played for Fife v Perth & Angus at Dawnfield on 30th October: A.A. Reid, I.A. Ross, D.M. Bayne, H. Scott, A.C. Hill.
The following played for Midlands v North at Aberdeen on 6th November: A.A. Reid, I.A. Ross, D.M. Bayne, H. Scott, A.S. Thomson. (Reserves: I.A. MacKinlay, A.C. Hill)
North v South at Perth on 13th November: I. A. Ross, A.S. Thomson, H. Scott.”
J. L. Lindsay (Hon. Sec.)
This post-war boom continued and in 1949 A.M. Thompson was capped followed by H. Scott (1950), I.S. Swan and M.K. Elgie (1952-53) who were the last capped university students.
AM Thompson
1949: I
1949-50 Season:
Secretary I.S. Swan
Played 22 Won 11 Lost 9 Drawn 2
“The following played for Fife v Perth & Angus at St Andrews on Wednesday 26th October, 1949: H. Scott, AM Thomson, JK Whyte, JA MacKinlay, B Rosenberg, IS Swann.
The following represented Midlands v North at St Andrews on Saturday 5th November, 1949: H Scott, AM Thomson, JA McKinlay and IS Swann. JA McKinlay also represented Cheshire at the beginning of the season in the English Counties Championship.
H Scott and AM Thomson represented North v South at Aberdeen on Saturday 12th November 1949. H Scott was our sole representative at Melrose for the first trial at Melrose on Saturday 17th December 1949.
Hamish Scott was reserve in attendance for the French, Welsh and Irish games and then he brought supreme honour to the club by gaining his cap for the Calcutta Cup game against England at Murrayfield on Saturday 18th March.
Following as this does on AM Thomson’s cap against Ireland last season, the club can feel justly proud of its International Representation. H Scott and AM Thomson represented Scottish Universities against English Universities at Liverpool.”
I. S. Swann (Hon. Sec.)
Hamish Scott
1950: E
1950-51 Season:
Captain , Secretary D.S. Ross.
Played 18 Won 7 Lost 10 Drawn 1 Points F 170 A 207
“The club’s visit to Hawick was a noteworthy event as it was the first to the borders since just before the recent war, and the first to Mansfield Park since the early 1920s.
The visit of Queen’s University was another highlight in a season that contained few moments of cheer. The Irish side included five international players, but although losing by a margin of thirteen points, the club played with plenty of team spirit which was all too often lacking in many other games.
I S Swan played for Fife, Midlands and the North, while P Baker and AM Thomson played for Fife and JL Graham played for Angus. AJ Mutch, JL Graham and IS Swan were also selected for the Scottish Universities XV against the English Universities, a match which was unfortunately cancelled because of frost.”
D. S. Ross (Hon. Sec.)
1951-52 Season:
Captain I McNab, Secretary W Thomson,
Played 22 Won 12 Lost 9 Drawn 1 Points F 220 A 171
“In a rather eventful season the usual spate of cancelled games occurred due to the hard frost and snow. Added to the four games unplayed due to these conditions two games were unplayed during the period of mourning for the late King. Clubs to show grand hospitality were Royal Signals Batterick, Ottley, Harrogate, Jedforest and Hawick these clubs being especially singled out as it was in no small measure due to these clubs that the tour was possible.
The tour which took place in the second week of the Easter vacation proved a great success and to the delight of all, the standard of play was applauded by all the clubs concerned. The results were favourable and but for an under estimation of the Ottley side might have been more so.
Included in the Signals side that opposed the touring side, was JGF Thomson, an old St Andrews player.
Against Harrogate who included six guest Yorkshire caps the team did very well and in fact were a trifle unlucky not to be ahead at the finish. Jedforest were beaten by a goal to a drop goal.
Hawick were very fortunate to have the excellent kicker J Wright in their ranks and two lovely penalty goals by that player was the margin by which the touring side were beaten. Blinding snow showers took a great deal of the enjoyment from the game however.
The congratulations of the club go to the following: IS Swan who played in all the Midlands and North representative games as well as in the Scottish trial; A Goldie, who played in all the Midlands and North representative games; A Mutch, who played for the North against the South; H McWalter who was travelling reserve for the North against the Springboks; R Madhill who was travelling reserve for North v South.
The Following played for Fife v Perth: WM Lyall, A Goldie, IS Swan, RF Madhill, LN Graham, AJ Mutch. Playing for Perth against this side were: H Scrimgeour, GK Shaw.”
W. Thomson (Hon. Sec.)
1952-53 Season:
Captain , Secretary G.B. James
Played 20 Won 7 Lost 11 Drawn 2 Points
“For Fife v Perth & Angus: W Thomson (capt), JWA Young, A Goldie, MK Elgie, JM Anderson, GW Adam, H McWalter, GB Sutton.
For Perth & Angus v Fife: GK Shaw
For Midlands v North: A Goldie, MK Elgie, JM Anderson, GW Adam, H McWalter.
For North v South: JM Anderson, MK Elgie, H McWalter.
Scottish Universities v English Universities: MK Elgie, H McWalter, J McNab.
Outstanding new fixtures next season are the games against Cambridge University and Glasgow Academicals.
Congratulations to IS Swan who played for the club from 1948-52 on gaining his cap in the Calcutta Cup game.”
G. B. James (Hon. Sec.)
I.S. Swan
Army, L Scot, Leic, Cov
1953: E
1954: F, Nz, I, E, W
1955: F, W, I, E
1956: F, W, I, E
1957: F, W
1958: F
1953-54 Season:
Captain , Secretary G.W. Adam.
Played 24 Won 10 Lost 12 Drew 2
“Won the Scottish Universities Championship for the first time since the early 30s.
Won the Midlands District Seven-a-side tournament at Perth on 10th April 1954., the first time the club has won this tournament since 1929. Beat Howe of Fife 9-3 in the final.
Tour: Leeds University, Guys Hospital, United Hospitals, Civil Service,
For Fife v Perth and Angus: W.G. Sutton, A. Dewar, J. M. Anderson, G.W. Adam
For Midlands v North: J.M. Anderson, G.W. Adam,
For North v Edinburgh: W. Thomson, J.M. Anderson,
For North v Glasgow: W. Thomson,
For North v South: W. Thomson, F. J. Whitehurst,
Scottish Universities v English Universities: W. Thomson, A. Goldie, B. Smith,
Scottish Universities v Irish Universities: W. Thomson, A. Goldie, B. Smith, A.S. Noble (travelling reserves J.M. Anderson, S. V. Tuff)
Scottish Universities v South: W. Thomson, J.M. Davidson.
Congratulations to I.S. Swann, who played for the club from 1948-52 on being capped for Scotland for all five of this season’s international matches.
Congratulations also to M.K. Elgie who played for the club during 1952 and 1953 on being capped for Scotland against New Zealand, Ireland, England and Wales.”
G. W. Adam (Hon. Sec.)
M.K. Elgie
Lond Scot
1954: Nz, I, E, W
1955: F, W, I, E
“Michael Kelsey 'Kim' Elgie (born 6th March, 1933, Berea, Durban, Natal) is a former South African and Natal cricketer who played in 3 Tests against New Zealand from 1961 to 1962. Kim was a capable right-hand batsman and slow left-armer with his only significant contribution coming at Johannesburg where he made 56. He also played rugby for Scotland eight times as a centre while he was studying at the University of St Andrews between 1954-55 and 1955-56.”
Test Career:
3 Matches, Runs 75, Batting Av. 12.50, 1 x 50, Top Score 56, Catches 4.
First Class Career:
32 Matches, 1834 Runs, Batting Av. 36.57, 3 x 100, 13 x 50, Top Score 162*, 10 Wickets, Bowling Av. 40.5, Best Bowling 3/16, 25 Catches.
Kim played for the College Rovers Club, the second oldest rugby club in Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa.
1954-55 Season:
Captain , Secretary ,
Played 15 Won 4 Lost 11 Drew 1
“For Fife v Perth & Angus: G. W. Adam, J.M. Davidson, A.L. Watt, D. B. Yeoman, For Midlands v North: G.W. Adam, Scottish Universities v South: G.W. Adam, J. M. Davidson, S.V. Tuff. The Scottish Universities matches against English Universities and Irish Universities were cancelled. Congratulations to I.S. Swann who played for the club 1948-52 and to M.K. Elgie who played for the club in 1952 and 1953, who both played in all four international matches this season.”
1955-56 Season:
Captain , Secretary J.J.B. Somerville.
Played 18 Won 3 Lost 15 Drew 0 Points For: 94 Against: 283
“K.G. Bett, front row forward, was sent off by the Referee in the match versus Jordanhill F.P. on 29th February 1956. Despite the witness of many who were present there, the decision of the referee to the Scottish Rugby Union was upheld and the player suspended from 29th February until 21st March. It was the first suspension in the history of the club and under the peculiar circumstances a most unfortunate occurrence for the team in general and the player in particular.
For Midlands v North: J. J.B. Somerville,
For Scottish Universities v English Universities: S. V. Tuff,
For Scottish Universities v South: S. V. Tuff, J. M. Anderson, S. G. Small,
Congratulations are due to M.K. Elgie who had a very large share in Middlesex’s feet of winning the English Counties Rugby Championship this season. Middlesex beat Devon 13-9 at Twickenham on 10th March 1956.
Congratulations also go to I.S. Swan who is now with 14 caps the veteran of the Scottish International side.”
J. J. B. Somerville (Hon. Sec.)
1956-57 Season:
Captain AK Dewar, Secretary SG Small,
Played 24, Won 10, Lost 13, Drew 1, Points For: 152, Against 210.
“Representative players from the university XV for season 1956-57 up until 19th February have been:
For Midlands v North: S.G. Small,
For North/Midlands v South: S. G. Small,
For North/Midlands v Edinburgh: S. G. Small,
For North/Midlands v Glasgow: S.G. Small,
For Scottish Universities(Past and Present) v South African Unis: N.J. Brow,
For Scottish Universities v English Universities: N.J. Brow, S.G. Small,
Congratulations to I.S. Swann who played for the club 1948-52, in being selected for Scotland for the first two internationals this year and in playing for the Scottish Universities (Past and Present) XV versus the Sables.
One of the club’s vice-presidents, Dr A.R. Moodie of “the Wynd” St Andrews realising the importance of kicking especially the place kick, in the modern game, has very kindly presented a trophy for annual competition, dor drop and place kicking, among the members of the club.
After the last match, the season was appropriately ended with the presentation of an engraved tankard to A.K. Dewar by the team in appreciation of a most inspiring and successful years captaincy.
Representative players from Varsity XV for final Scottish Universities match:
For Scottish Universities vc Scottish Borders XV: D.K. Anderson, R.F. Parkinson, S.G. Small,
For Fife Select XV v Edinburgh and Borders XV: T.B. Stewart, G.C. Stewart, S.G. Small”
S. G. Small (Hon. Sec.)
1957-58 Season:
Captain , Secretary D.K. Anderson,
Played 20, Won 13, Lost 6, Drew 1, Points For: 184, Against 154.
“Tour to Ireland: C.I.Y.M.S, Queen’s University Belfast, King’s Scholars.
At Perth on Saturday 12th April, the University crowned a fine season by winning the Midlands District Seven-a-side for the first time since 1954 and the third time in the 33 years of the tournament beating Howe of Fife 13-6 in the final.
Representative players from the university for season 1957-58, up until 5th March have been:
For Fife v Perth & Angus: G.C. Stewart, S.G. Small, R. Tindal,
For Perth & Angus v Fife: A. M. Nicol,
For Midlands v North: S.G. Small, A. M. Nicoll,
For North/Midlands v South: S.G. Small,
For North/Midlands v Glasgow: S.G. Small, R.K. Carruthers,
For North/Midlands v Edinburgh: S.G. Small, A.M. Nicoll,
For North/Midlands v Wallabies: S.G. Small,
For the Scottish Universities v English Universities: N.J. Brow, R. F. Parkinson, W.D. Philips, D.K. Anderson, R.K. Carruthers, N.J. Lillie, K.J. Dargie, G.C. Stewart.
During the first term the competition for the Moodie Trophy was held:
Winner: W.D. Phillips,
Runners Up: D.M. Moffat, A.M. Nicoll, R.F. Parkinson,
For Scottish Universities v Scottish Borders: G.C. Stewart, S.G. Small, N.J. Brow, R.F. Parkinson, R.K. Carruthers, W.D. Phillips and K.J. Dargie.”
D. K. Anderson (Hon. Sec.)
1958-59 Season:
Captain S.G. Small, Secretary C.G. Murray.
Played 18, Won 9, Lost 9, Drew 0, Points For: 211, Against 195.
“There is some mention of the on-field performance being below par during the 1950's and 60's; and to some extent this is correct. With embarrassment, I watched the University being given a hiding of approx 40 odd points to nil by Queen's University Belfast during the 1958/59 season. At the time, Queen's were very strong with a few Irish trialists in their ranks.” (Robert Taylor, 1959-62).
“Congratulations to R.F. Parkinson for being chosen to play in the final Lancashire trial and the three subsequent Lancashire county games; these in his favourite position at centre which he likes so much better than his wing position in St Andrews. We wish him all the best at St Edmund College Oxford next year.
The following played in representative matches:
Perth & Angus v Fife: A.M. Nicoll, D. J. Whyte, R.K. Carruthers, D.B. Yeaman, W.H. Brown,
Midlands v North: D.J. Whyte, W.H. Brown, A.M. Nicoll, S.G. Small,
North/Midlands v South: S.G. Small,
Also chosen for Edinburgh and Glasgow: D.J. Whyte,
Glasgow match cancelled, S.G. Small injured for the Edinburgh match. Both international Universities matches against England and Ireland were cancelled over the cold after R.F. Parkinson, D.J. Whyte, S.G. Small(captain) and K.J. Dargie were selected to play with A.M. Nicoll, D.M.G. Main, R.J. Bacon and G.C. Stewart as reserves.
The result of the Moodie Kicking Trophy was as follows:
Winner: J.V. Bowen,
Runnerup: W. D. Phillip.”
C. G. Murray (Hon. Sec.)
1959-60 Season:
Captain R.K. Carruthers, Secretary D. M. Moffat, Treasurer D Ross.
Played 21, Won 7, Lost 14, Drew 0, Points For: 129, Against: 242,
“After one match D.J. Whyte had to give up for fear of jeopardising his chances as an Olympic long-jumper, our best wishes go with him, we hope to Rome.
The following members of the club have played in representative games:
For Scottish Universities v English Universities at Hull: A.M. Nicoll, K.J. Dargie was unable to play due to injury. M.G. Hill, M. James, D. M. Moffat, J. Brooks and T.D. Ross were reserves.
For Scottish Universities v South: A.M. Nicoll, R.K. Carruthers, D.M. Moffat, K.J. Dargie withdrew due to injury, J. Brooks was a reserve.
For Perth & Angus v Fife at St Andrews: R.K. Carruthers, R. Ludlaw.”
D. M. Moffat (Hon. Sec.)
1960-61 Season:
Captain K.J. Dargie, Secretary JDR Willday,
Played 24, Won 15, Lost 7, Drew 2, Points For: 280, Against: 160.
“D.J. Whyte was chosen for both Scotland trials and distinguished himself playing opposite A.R. Smith. D. J. Whyte played for the North and Midlands against the South, Glasgow and the South Africans Scottish Univesities: D.J. Whyte, K.J. Dargie, A.M. Nicoll, Fife: D.J. Whyte, Perth & Angus: A.M. Nicoll,
Tour to Ireland: Queen’s University Belfast, King’s Scholars, Armagh.”
J. D. R. Willday (Hon. Sec.)
“There was a sequel to this match (see 1958/59 season) towards the end of season 1960/61 when St Andrews beat Queen's 3 points to nil at University Park and a few weeks later beat them 11 to 3 (I think) in Belfast. Queen's were still a strong side with at least 3 Internationals (Davie and Jimmy Hewitt and Jim Dick) plus a sprinkling of triallists in their teams.” (Robert Taylor, 1959-62).
“Our Seven's side (which from memory comprised John (JR) Clarke, Hugh Begg, Aly Nicol, Dave Whyte, Andy Wright, Jim Christie and R Taylor) played off in the final of the Midland Sevens and lost 8 to 5 against Perth Accies. As the score suggests, it could easily have gone the other way. Given our relatively short season, it was the only Sevens competition we played that year.” (Robert Taylor, 1959-62).
1961-62 Season:
Captain A.M. Nicoll, vice/captain D.J. Whyte, Secretary H. M. Begg, Treasurer A.W.V. Wright, Fixture Secretary W Adam.
Played 21, Won 6, Lost 14, Drew 1, Points For: 196, Against: 209.
“Election of Vice-Presidents: Wallace Adam, A.M. Carstairs, A. S. Strachan.
The following members of the club played representative matches:
D.J. Whyte played in both Scottish trials and was a travelling reserve versus Ireland.
John Clarke and Dave Whyte played for N/Midlands v Edinburgh, South and Glasgow.
John Clarke, Dave Whyte and Andy Wright played v Irish and English Universities and South XV and Peter Martin played v South XV.
The Moodie Trophy was won by A. Fraser, runner up D.J. Anderson.”
H. M. Begg (Hon. Sec.)
1962-63 Season:
Captain D.J. Whyte, v/capt M Barrat, Secretary H.M. Begg, Treasurer J. Cumming, Fixture Secretary G.W. Adam.
Played 20, Won 9, Lost 11, Drew 0, Points For: 198, Against: 146.
“Tour to Ireland: Old Wesleyons, University College, Trinity College.
The Moodie Trophy was won by J Christie.”
H. M. Begg (Hon. Sec.)
1963-64 Season:
Captain J.D. Cumming, Secretary C.P. Carter,
Played 26, Won 18, Lost 7, Drew 1, Points For 278, Against 158.
“The following members of the club played in representative matches:
B.W. Brown & C.P. Carter played for N/Midlands v Edinburgh, South & Glasgow. They also played for the North of Scotland against the All Blacks.
P.J. Hinchliff was chosen for N/Midland against Glasgow but could not play through injury.
T.J. Ellesmere was a travelling reserve for the North of Scotland against the All Blacks.
For Scottish Universities v English Universities at Leeds: J.D. Cumming (capt), T.J. Ellesmere, C.P. Carter, B.W. Brown, and M.G.S. Debenham.
For Scottish Universities v The South of Scotland: B.W. Brown, C.P. Carter, P.J. Hinchliff, D.T.M. Salmond and M.G.S. Debenham. T.J. Ellesmere was chosen to play but had to with draw through injury.
The Moodie Trophy was won by D. Fogden.
First time won the Cunningham Cup since 1957/8 season by beating Edinburgh University 8-3.
1963-4 season St Andrews won the Scottish University Championship.”
C. P. Carter (Hon. Sec.)
1964-65 Season:
Captain C. P. Carter,
Played 35, Won 18, Lost 11, Drew 6, Points For 441 Against 270.
“Irish Tour: Queen’s University Belfast, North Wednesday, Malone.
Won the seven-a-side tournament at Perth, beating Dundee High School F.P. 23-5 in the final.
The following members of the club played in representative matches:
For British Universities on their French Tour: C.P. Carter, T.J. Ellesmere.
For Scottish Universities v Irish Universities in Edinburgh: C.P. Carter(capt), T.J. Ellesmere, A.J. Gainer, D.T.M. Salmond.
For North/Midlands v South at Jedforest: C.P. Carter, A.J. Gainer, C.W.W. Rea. T.J. Ellesmere withdrew through injury.
For North/Midlands v Edinburgh at St Andrews: C.P. Carter, T.J. Ellesmere, A.J. Gainer.
For North/Midlands v Glasgow at Glasgow: C.P. Carter, T.J. Ellesmere, C.W.W. Rea.
For Midlands v North at Aberdeen: C.P. Carter, T.J. Ellesmere, C.W.W. Rea.
For Co-optimists in their R.F. Oakes Memorial Match: C.P. Carter
For Perth & Angus v Fife at Dundee: T.J. Ellesmere, T.G.C Thomas.
The Moodie Trophy was won by G.M. McPartlin.
Statistically the fourth best season since the war, the seven played extremely attractive rugby to win the Midlands District 7-a-side tournament at Perth.
Best wishes go to our Captain C.P. Carter who moves to Cambridge University next year.”
(Hon. Sec.)
1965-66 Season:
Captain Gerry McPartlin, Treasurer C.W.W. Rea.
Played 22 Won 12 Lost 10 Drew 0 Points For 228 Against 204
“The following members of the club played in representative matches:
For British Universities in their French tour: C.W.W. Rea,
For Scottish Universities v South of Scotland: C.N. Todd, K.G. McCurrach, C.W.W. Rea, D.H. Paul (match cancelled).
For Scottish Universities v Irish Universities: G.M. McPartlin(capt), C.W.W. Rea, D.H. Paul,
For Scottish Universities v Welsh Universities: G.M. McPartlin(capt), C.W.W. Rea, D.H. Paul, G.L. Desson.
For North/Midlands v South of Scotland: C.W.W. Rea,
For North/Midlands v Edinburgh: C.W.W. Rea,
For North/Midlands v Glasgow: C.W.W. Rea,
For Midlands v North: C.W.W. Rea, A.J. Gainer
For Perth & Angus v Fife: C.W.W. Rea
For Fife & Perth & Angus: C.N. Todd, J.G. Spencer, D.T. M. Salmond, D.H. Paul.
For a Dundee Representative XV v Glasgow Select: K.G. McCurrach, J. Jelliman, S.J. Tristram. C.W.W. Rea withdrew because of injury.
The Moodie Trophy was won by G.L. Desson.
Shared the Scottish Universities Championship with Edinburgh.
In the last year of joint St Andrews – Dundee membership of the University Rugby Club, I should like to say what good team mates the Dundee boys have been, but to warn them that all former friendships will be forgotten when we meet next year!
C.W.W. Rea is also to be congratulated on making the British Universities Party to tour the West Country and to play against the French Universities.”
“The Club's standing in the sixties was a very successful period, at a time when the standard of university rugby was extremely high. In 1966 Edinburgh University won the Scottish Club Championship beating some of the best teams in the country such as Hawick, Melrose and Gala, and in that same year they were joint winners of the Scottish Universities Championship - with St. Andrews. In 1966, the Club finished seventh in the Scottish Club Championship which then comprised the top 30 clubs in Scotland, in addition to winning a number of major sevens titles.” (Chris Rea, 1964-66).
With the formation of Dundee University apart from St. Andrews in 1966, selection was limited to St. Andrews students for the first time.
A decade after M.K. Elgie was capped for Scotland, D.J. Whyte made his debut for Scotland receiving his first cap against Wales.
D.J. Whyte
Edin Wand
1965: W, I, E, Sa
1966: F, W, I, E, A
1967: F, W, I, E
DAVID JAMES WHYTE Athletics and Rugby Union
Inducted into the University Hall of Fame: 27th April, 2007
Born: Cupar, Fife 1940
Connection: MA English 1963
“Finest achievement: Representing Great Britain aged 18 in the long jump and recording a distance of 23 feet 4 inches, 13 Scottish rugby caps, Barbarian, 8 Great Britain athletics vests.
Memory of St Andrews: Acting as the Jester at the Kate Kennedy Procession and being hunted down by a horde of children.
Sporting achievements: David was one of a rare breed winning a GB Athletics vest in his first year of undergraduate studies aged 18. Apart from his main event of long jump David also was more than a capable sprinter (100 yards personal best 10secs), triple jumper and high jumper. He won the AAA long jump title aged 19 in 1959, Scottish AAA Champion 1959, 1960 and 1966, a British and Irish Lions reserve 1961 and had 13 Scottish rugby caps 1965-7.” Taken from the University Hall of Fame
1966-67 Season:
Captain M Singer,
Played 29 Won 12 Loat 15 Drew 2
“Tour to London: Old Merchant Taylors, Henley, Guy’s Hospital.
The following members of the club played in representative matches:
For Scottish Universities v Glasgow District: M.I.C. Singer, R.H. Dakin, D.H. Paul (reserve),
For Scottish Universities v U.A.U. and Welsh Universities: M.I.C. Singer,
For Midlands District ‘A’ v Midlands District Union: M.I.C. Singer(capt).
The Moodie Trophy was won by R.H. Dakin.
This year – the first in which St Andrews and Dundee have been split – Sir John Carmichael kindly presented a trophy to be contended annually in the St Andrews v Dundee match. This year St Andrews University chalked up a comfortable 14-0 victory over their rivals thereby taking the trophy for its first year.”
(Hon. Sec.)
1967-68 Season:
Captain P.J.G. Smith, Treasurer P.E. Morris.
Played 24 Won 6 Lost 18 Drew 0 Points For 175 Against 372.
“The following members of the club played in representative matches:
For Scottish Universities v London Universities, A.U.A., Welsh Universities: C.N. Todd,
For Midlands District “A” v Midland District Union C.N. Todd (game cancelled)
For Fife v Perth & Angus: P.J.G. Smith
For Perth & Angus v Fife: R.J. Rawlinson
The Moodie Trophy was won by D.G. Stephenson.
It is not possible to make the report without mentioning the visit of the University of the Orange Free State…As was expected trouble arose over the political issue of Apartheid. On the day of the game, play was held up for approximately twenty minutes by the students from Dundee University demonstrating on the pitch – several were arrested by the police. When the game eventually got underway we saw a very entertaining game of rugby by both teams, the combined St Andrews – Dundee team winning 11-0.
Also I would like to thank our retiring President, Sir John Carmichael, for the services he has given to the club in the past.”
(Hon. Sec.)
1968-69 Season:
Captain D Rawlinson, Secretary A Smithyman, Treasurer I.W. Stewart,
Played 26 Won 7 Lost 11 Drew 3
“Graduates Match v Old St Andreans: The game was played on a beautiful sunny afternoon and proved to be very fast, very open and consequently most enjoyable, the visitors winning by two tries to one goal. After the match both teams joined the other club members for the Annual Dinner at Peat Inn and it is hoped this match will also become an annual event.
Playing for the ex-St Andrews team:
A.Wright, G. Ritchie, G. Shaw, G. Hadley, J. Whelton, D. Salmond, R. Dakin, G. Desson, D. Harlington, S. Tristram, D. Paul, K. McCurrach, T. Ellesmere, G. McPartlin.
Before closing this report I should like to thank Mr G Wallace Adam for the services he has given to the club in his post as Honorary Fixture Secretary. Mr Adam who captained the University side in 1954-55 has held this post since 1960-61 but has had to resign due to business reasons.
Congratulations to Chris Rea who played for the university until 1966 on being capped for Scotland this season in all their internationals.”
A Smithyman (Hon. Sec.)
Chris WW Rea
W Scot, Headingley
1968: A
1969: F, W, I, Sa
1970: F, W, I, A
1971: F, W, E, EC
Chris Rea, a member of the St Andrews 1st XV between 1964 and 66, captained the British Universties in 1966 and gained 13 Scottish caps at centre between 1968 and 71 scoring three tries. Other clubs played for included West of Scotland and Headingly.
His first cap was won in the 9-3 victory against Australia in November 1968 signalled the start of a 4 year Scotland career that ended as it had begun, in victory, this time 26-6 against England on 27th March 1971 in the game marking that particular fixture’s centenary. Not only did Chris score a try in the game but it was his second victory over England in that month, having been part of the squad that won the previous weeks 5 Nations meeting between the two sides.
He was also a member of the victorious 1971 British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand and Australia, referred to by many as the greatest ever to leave these shores and which won admiration of the rugby world by the magnificent achievement of becoming the first side ever to win a test series in New Zealand. Although picked as a centre, Chris played mostly as a fly-half during the tour due to injuries in the squad. He played 10 games for the tourists and scored three tries.
After his playing career ended, Chris became a highly successful sports journalist before applying his communication skills as the IRB media manager.
1969-70 Season:
Captain David Bell, Secretary John Drummond,
Played 29 Won 13 Lost 15 Drew 2 Points For 422 Against 366
“Dunfermline became the first side to win our seven-a-side tournament by beating Madras 19-8 in the final after extra time. The Women’s match served as a most enjoyable prelude to the final though it is not certain whether or not the Scottish Rugby Union were in accord with this. It is hoped that the tournament will be an annual one as it would appear that all the clubs participating were in favour of the league system which ensured more than one game and in consequence no team’s journey was entirely worthless.
The following Monday the University proceeded to dispose mercilessly of a Graduates XV containing one current Scottish Internationalist and a couple of district players by playing attractive open rugby as the score line of 34-14 would suggest.
The following members of the club have played in representative matches:
North /Midlands v South of Scotland: J.R. Rawlinson.
North of Scotland v 1970 Springboks: J.R. Rawlinson, D.L. Bell (reserve)
North/Midlands v Glasgow: D.L. Bell (withdrew through injury)
Scottish Universities v North/Midlands: J.R. Rawlinson, D.L. Bell
Scottish Universities v London University: D.L. Bell
Scottish Universities v Glasgow: D.L. Bell (capt)
Scottish Universities v U.A.U.: D.L. Bell (capt)
Scottish Universities v Welsh Universities: D.L. Bell (capt) (match cancelled due to weather)
Midlands Under 23 XV v Midlands District Junior XV: D.L. Bell, D.H. Borrowman (withdrew through injury)
Midlands Under 23 XV v Midlands District Union, North Under 23 XV, Edinburgh Under 23 XV: D.L. Bell (capt), D.H. Borrowman, K.D. Isles
Fife v Perth & Angus: J.R. Rawlinson
North Under 23 XV v Midlands Under 23 XV: A. Moffat, L. Doig
North/Midlands Under 23 XV v London Scottish: D.L. Bell (capt) L. Doig.
Easter Tour to Cambridge and London 22nd March-27th March 1970: Cambridge County, Orleans RFC, Old Creightonians RFC. The first match of the tour was against Cambridge County in Cambridge on the Monday evening. The University were not at full strength being minus key men through injury but none the less tackled a side containing two English trialists, six East Midlands players and the rest local county players…
Sevens Trophy: E.P. Drummond Esq. kindly presented the club with a trophy to be competed for annually in the university seven-a-side tournament. For this the club extends him our thanks and are insistent on the fact that next season he will make the presentation to the winners.
Vice-Presidents: The following were invited to become Vice-Presidents of the club from season 1970-71 onwards and we are delighted that they were all able to accept E.P. Drummond Esq, D.Y. Veitch Esq, I. Breioster Esq, Dr J. Borrowman, I. Isles Esq, J. Craig Esq.
University 7-a-side tournament held by Herriot-Watt University: St Andrews playing some superb rugger reached the final of this tournament and only narrowly lost to Edinburgh University in an extremely exciting final played on the Murrayfield International pitch. The University finished runners up as Edinburgh won 24-22. Numerous tries were scored and St Andrews were unlucky that Dave Bell missed the vital conversion which would have levelled the scores and put the match into extra time.
The Moodie Trophy was not awarded this season.”
J Drummond (Hon. Sec.)
1970-71 Season:
Captain Keith Isles, Secretary J. Drummond,
Played 38 Won 10 Lost 26 Drew 2
“Dutch Tour, Rotterdam, September 1970: In late September eighteen members of the University Rugby Club assembled at Harwich for an adventure to Holland. In fact we were competing in an International Student’s tournament organised by the Dutch to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the rebuilding of Rotterdam. Teams from all over Europe were participating and St Andrews were Scotland’s representatives, whilst a strong combined Newcastle and Durham Universities team represented England. FULL TOUR REPORT TO FOLLOW: Belgium Universities, Durham/Newcastle XV, University of Paris, Dutch Universities.”
“The following members of the club have played in representative matches during the season:
Scottish Universities v North/Midlands: D.H. Borrowman, N.M.C.N. Alford,
North/Midlands v Edinburgh: D.H. Borrowman
Scottish Universities v London Unversities: D.H. Borrowman, K.D. Isles, N. Alford withdrew through injury, C.A. O’Donnell (reserve)
Scottish Universities v English Universities: D.H. Borrowman, N. Alford injured and did not play though selected. K.D. Isles (reserve)
Scottish Universities v Glasgow District: D.H. Borrowman, D.B.S. Stephenson
Scottish Universities v Welsh Universities: D.H. Borrowman, D.B.S. Stephenson, K.D. Isles, C.A. O’Donnell were reserves.
North/Midlands v Glasgow: D.H. Borrowman
Midlands v North: D.B.S. Stephenson
Midlands Universities v Midlands Under 23 XV: D.H. Borrowman, K.D. Isles, J. Robertson, A Moffat, L.T. Doig, I. Mallard.
Midlands Under 23 XV v Midlands District Union: D.H. Borrowman, L.T. Doig, K.D. Isles
Midlands Under 23 XV v North Under 23 XV: D.H. Borrowman, N. M.C.N. Alford, K.D. Isles, L.T. Doig, (A.G. Bell played for the North)
North/Midlands Under 23 XV v Edinburgh Under 23 XV: D.H. Borrowman.
Congratulations to last year’s captain David Bell who won an Oxford Blue at Twickenham this year. Dave playing at stand-off for Oxford scored a try and dropped a goal in their defeat of Cambridge.
Subsequently his appearance at Murrayfield was no surprise in the first trial. It was unfortunate however that injury forced him to withdraw from the Final Trial. His time will come nevertheless.
Sixteen clubs from all over Scotland took part in our seven-a-side tournament the following Wednesday (3rd February 1971). The tournament proved to be a great success and the eventual winners, Kelso thrilled us all by a fine display of seven-a-side rugby. Dunfermline were unfortunate to come up against Kelso in the first round as this would have made a likely final. However, they went on to win the Loser’s Plate. Dundee University and Edinburgh University were the beaten semi-finalists and Kelvinside were runners up to Kelso. We were glad that the cup and the replicas went to the Borders as more top teams might now be encouraged to participate. Next year we are planning to have the tournament in March, just before the seven’s season begins – this should be incentive enough for clubs to compete.
Midlands 7s 3rd Place, Universities Tournament, Murrayfield Losers Plate Winners
…we had defeated the University Graduates by 16 points to 14. Containing several top Scottish and English players notably the country’s top scorer this season, Phil Carter, the Yorkshire county captain, this side produced open attractive rugby and we proved we could match it.
The Moodie Trophy was won by M.J. Stanley”
J Drummond (Hon. Sec.)
1971-72 Season:
Captain David Borrowman, Secretary R.J. Taylor,
Played 38 Won 14 Lost 20 Drew 4 Points For 512 Against 582
“The pre-sessional went exceedingly well thereafter, with a visit by Bill Dickinson, the Scottish Coach, on the Sunday which led to implementation of many new ploys.
For the second season in succession we defeated Edinburgh University.
Wednesday 1st March saw the sevens tournament at University Park. Seventeen teams participated in our Sevens this year. Some excellent rugby was seen with Kelso once again carrying off the trophy. It was a particularly good afternoon for St Andrews. We beat Madras F.P. in the first round, Aberdeen Wednesday Club in the second and Dundee University in the semi-finals. In the final we met Kelso who were a cut above us and worthy winners. Last years winners of the Losers Plate, Dunfermline once more lost in the first round and eventually found themselves in the Losers final against Glasgow High. Kelso had an aggregate of 116 points against 20 in their four ties: they enjoyed a liberal share of the ball and always played fast and attractive rugby. There were no serious rivals and even a Border Select including A.R. Irvine and D.P. Clarke (Heriot’s F.P.), G.W. Turnbull (Jedforest) and R.C. Proudfort (Edinburgh Wanderers) were swept aside. Kelso’s outstanding performance lay in a well-balanced side with scrum half I. Gillespie and the tall forward J. Hewitt, each of whom scored eight tries and J Fleming a speedy three quarter who finished as their top scorer with 30 points, mostly from goal kicks.
On Monday the Graduates match was staged. The University Graduates captained by Dave Bell and with Hugh Begg as pack leader played an inspired game and surpassed themselves in beating the University by 19 points to 13.
A mention must be made of our most formidable winger Neal McNeil Alford who is to be congratulated on his selection for British Universities to play against French Universities at Llanelli on 24th March 1972.
Tour to Jersey, March 1972: Jersey XV, Jersey RFC, Jersey United Banks, Jersey Beechers O.Bs. …That evening we were back on form. Memories of the hotel manager being tackled in the middle of the dance floor will live forever. Indeed this was a tour to end all tours with the captain, Dave Borrowman, scoring his first try for the University in fifteen-a-side rugby in his last match.”
R. J. Taylor (Hon. Sec.)
1972-73 Season:
Captain Eric Lambert, Secretary C Hatt,
Played 26 Won 10 Lost 15 Drew 1 Points For 258 Against 367
“As in previous years a pre-seasonal training week was held in St Andrews. This was quite well attended by members of the club and was greatly helped by a new member of the Physical Education Centre Staff, Mr John Scott. Mr Scott took over the coaching and training during the pre-seasonal and in fact throughout the season.
The game against the Graduates resulted in an 18-3 defeat but was followed by an excellent dinner in the Star Hotel.
14 teams contested our annual sevens tournament including the winners last year Kelso and the Stanley Plate winners of last year Glasgow H.S.F.P. On a cold but dry day some excellent rugby was seen and Dundee University must be congratulated on their excellent performance, losing only to Watsonians in the Final.”
“After arranging a tour to the Lake District and arranging fixtures with Workington Zebras, Keswick and Penrith, it had to be cancelled due to lack of support from members of the club.
After retiring the committee, Eric Lambert presented John Scott with a bottle of whisky for his services to the club throughout the season, which were often for an excess of the terms of his employment at the P.E. centre.”
C. Hatt (Hon. Sec.)
By the formation of the leagues in 1974, the club was placed in Division 5 East and later the National Division 6 for the 1975-76 season.
1973-74 Season:
Captain S Easteal, Secretary D Reid, Vice Capt A. Hood, Treasurer T King, Fixtures Sec D Smith.
1975-76 Season:
Captain , Secretary Bob Ramsay.
Played 24 Won 8 Lost 12 Drew 3 Points For 305 Against 310
“This year the SRU created another league division making a total of seven in all. St Andrews are now in the sixth division which was formed as an amalgamation of the middle sections of division five east and division five west.
After beating the Graduates we retired to the Brownhills Hotel for our annual dinner Larry Lamb of international referee fame gave an exceptionally good speech…”
B. Ramsay (Hon. Sec.)
David Bell
Watsonians
1975: I, F, W, E
1976-77 Season:
Captain N. Wood, Secretary D Watt, Treasurer D Cowan, Vice-Capt Paolo Collett,
Played 27 Won 14 Lost 13 Drew 0 Points For 389 Against 337
“Representative Matches:
Scottish Universities v North/Midlands U23
v Edinburgh U23
v English Universities
v Welsh Universities:
N Wood, P Collett
British Universities v French Universities P. Collett (non travelling reserve)
Midlands U23 v North U23: A Hood (captain)
North and Midlands U23 v Scottish Universities: A Hood (injured, unable to play)
v Glasgow U23: A. Hood
v Edinburgh U23: A. Hood(captain)
Midlands District Unionv Glasgow: A. Hood
v Edinburgh: A. Hood.
Three of our players achieved representative status during the season. Paolo Collett, our full-back and outstanding player and Neil Wood, the captain, both played in all Scottish Universities matches and Paolo was a non-travelling reserve for the British Universities match. (Paolo was selected as a winger). Alan Hood, scrum half and past captain, in his 5th year in the side was selected as captain of the Midlands U23, also North/Midlands U23 in one match and was a reserve for the Midlands District Union matches. These three players deserve their congratulations, it is the first time we have had two regular Scottish universities players for several seasons.
The sevens was again a considerable success although several teams withdrew at the last minute as they did last year. The tournament was won by Glenrothes who beat Howe of Fife in an excellent final, in extra time. The University 7 again did well, losing the semi-final to Howe in a very close match by one try.
Tour to West country & Cornwall: Bath Combination XV, Camborne, St Ives, Salcombe, Torquay XV.”
D. Watt (Hon. Sec.)
1977-78 Season:
Captain N Wood, Vice-capt DJT Watt, Secretary M Hodding, Treasurer JW Storey
Played 15 Won 9 Lost 6 Drew 0 Points For 294 Against 95.
“Further victories left us poised to beat Aberdeen University and take the University Championship on St Andrews Day.
Congratulations must be given to Neil Wood, John Storey, Paolo Collett and Dave Watt for representing Scottish Universities and to Ian Diamond and Alan Hood for representing the North and Midlands.”
M. Hodding (Hon. Sec.)
1978-79 Season:
Captain N Stirling, Secretary G Hetheringham, Treasurer R Lee, Vice-capt D Dodson, Social A Jones.
Played 25 Won 14 Lost 11 Drew 0
“Representative honours have been few this season. Incredibly we only had one player in the Scottish Universities squad, winger Ian Benson, who only got one game in their visit to London. The loss was clearly theirs rather than ours and they didn’t seem to do very well without St Andrews players. Ian Diamond deserves special congratulations for being selected for the Midlands despite having been injured all season.
The sevens tournament was the first rugby seen in St Andrews for months and was an excellent days play competently organised by George Finlay. The tournament featured no less than three St Andrews teams and was won by Glenrothes (again) with Edinburgh Wanderers as runners up. Glasgow Academy were defeated by Watsonians featuring Alan Hood in the final of the Stanley Plate. Most distinguished performances came from St Andrews 1st VII which beat Watsonians and Ian Diamond’s Nomads who took Glasgow Academy to extra time. Mr Tom Pearson again presented the trophies.
Tour to Grenoble, March 1979: Grenoble University, G.U.C., Seyssins.”
G Hetheringham (Hon. Sec.)
1979-80 Season:
Captain G MacNaughton, Secretary Paul Corbett, Treasurer WJ McKinny, Social A Jones, vice-capt PS Bell.
Played 23 Won 7 Lost 16 Drew 0 Points For 220 Points Against 302.
“Our annual sevens took place under the excellent organisation of Mike Taylor and volunteers. Glenrothes won yet again against Edinburgh Wanderers in the final and Howe of Fife won the plate competition. We fielded two teams due to Hilhead’s absence and neither reached the second round. The first team won their first plate match but were beaten by How of Fife in the next round.
Representative honours have been sparse this season. Joe McKinney went on tour with Scottish Universities to Lancashire last Autumn and is present with them in London. Puolo Collett has played for Midland District Union side against South, Glasgow and is also to play against Edinburgh next week. Grant Cumming was captain of the Midlands U23 side which played the North last Tuesday.
The dinner took place in the St Andrews Hotel on a date in March which few of us remember. The main speaker was John Rutherford, the Selkirk, South and Scotland Stand-off whose humour was greatly appreciated by those still capable of more than the primary human functions. Most improved player Charlie Parker, piss artist of the year PM, clubman of the year hamstring.”
P. Corbett (Hon. Sec.)
1980-81 Season:
Captain PS Bell, Secretary MZ Hamid, Treasurer J Corin, vice-captain P Pomeroy
Played 23 Won 3 Lost 17 Drew 3 Points For 149 Against 506
“On Wednesday 25th February the annual 7s tournament organised by Martin Smith was held in fine conditions. Glenrothes winning again by beating Dundee H.S.F.P. in the final. The University 1st VII won the plate beating Watsonians before hammering Glasgow High 30-14 in the final.
Once more this has been a slack season for representative ho
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