Published: Friday, 30th January, 2009 12:36pm

French is remaining upbeat

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PEEBLES ploughed their way back into the promotion race with a win over Gala last weekend.

Now this Saturday, they go head-to-head with promotion rivals Jed-Forest at Riverside Park.

But Rugby Director Bob Hogarth remains cautious about the rest of the season with five games left.

'Anything can happen. There are a lot of hard matches left yet.'

Peebles are three points behind Stewart"s Melville, who have a game in hand, and their final matches are Jed and Aberdeeen away and Kelso, Haddington and Hamilton at home.

'I think we will need to win all our matches and hope results go our way elsewhere,' said Hogarth.

'But anything can happen with the season being disrupted by the 6 Nations Championship.

'The match at Jed is huge for both teams and, like us, since their defeat in the cup, they are unbeaten.'

Peebles will have their Scotland under-20 hooker Ryan McConnell available this week and will also look to Dan Boughtwood to kick the goals.

The Kiwi was on form against Gala last week - and proved the difference in his side"s win.

Peebles sit three points behind second-placed Stewart"s Melville, who have a game in hand, and level with Jed, who in turn have a game in hand.

So it is all to play for tomorrow.

As it will be at Hartreemill, where Kelso are the visitors.

Biggar just missed out on a losing bonus point at GHA and will be showing the Borderers no favours.

And the PN has been told that Biggar will play a re-scheduled fixture against Jed-Forest on February 14.

'GY would like to know of anyone who might wish to sponsor this match. The game was postponed from November and coincides with the France/Scotland 6-Nations match in Paris,' said spokesman Al Stewart.

'Plans are also afoot to hold a members lunch as well but prospective sponsors would also be able to host guests.'

This Saturday, too, Biggar 2nd XV are at home to Garnock and the 3rds to Penicuik. The Colts have yet to fix up a game.

All kick-offs are now at 3 pm.