Gala 23

Kelso 15

David Morrison at Netherdale

THERE was a more familiar look to the Gala that took the pitch on Saturday from the side who suffered defeat the previous weekend at Kirkcaldy.

Although Opeta Palepoi's returning troops still took a little time to adjust won't have prevented spirits being lifted.

Gala's aim is to finish in the top six to secure a place in next season's top flight.

And going by Saturday's return to form they are more than capable despite the competitiveness of National League One.

Despite Kelso's lowly position they began the brightest in the pouring rain at Netherdale.

Murray Hastie had already slotted home a penalty, following early pressure, before Kevin Wilson sneaked in for a try just a few minutes later.

The wet conditions didn't stop either team trying to spread the ball wide.

But it was up front where most yards were made - especially from a strong looking home pack.

Following some good carries into the Kelso 22, Simon Fairburn darted through a gap to stretch out his arm for the home team's first try.

Dean Keddie narrowed the lead to a single point with the conversion.

With half time approaching Keddie kicked Gala into a slender two-point lead with a penalty.

Gala began the second period well and only some stout defending from the Kelso team prevented another home try.

Keddie added a penalty before the pressure finally led to the second score.

More strong drives by the forwards led to Stevie Cairns crashing over out wide.

Just after the hour Ross Cooke gave Gala the cushion they deserved with a dart for the line.

At 23-8 Gala had the bonus point in their sights.

But it was the Tweedsiders who managed to grab the final try of the game with Robert Hastie touching down in the closing stages.

Murray Hastie's conversion brought the visitors to within eight points.

After recent poor results it was encouraging for the Maroons to not only win but also play some good rugby at times.

Gala: G Speirs, R Cooke, R Jeffrey, A Emond, J Turnbull, D Keddie, S Fairburn, M Christie, C Keen, T Logan, R Irvine, C Pate, J Easson, K Brown & S Cairns. Reps: J McCabe, O Palepoi, D Nicholson, L Johnston & A Turner.