Stressing Howe crucial it is to get a good result

Howe of Fife....................20

Howe of Fife skipper Stewart Lathangie reckons the importance of tomorrow’s BT National League I game at home to Musselburgh can’t be underestimated.

It was vital that the Duffus Park squad got a win to bolster confidence and hopefully propel them away from the foot of the table.

The side is also keen to move on from last weekend’s thumping 71-20 loss at undefeated Jed-Forest.

The hosts scored 10 tries, nine of which were converted, and a penalty – but led only 14-13 at half time.

“We played very well in the first half and controlled the game,” said Stewart. “We had wind advantage and used it well – but we blew three try-scoring chances. We should have been well ahead at half time.

“Jed-Forest utilised the wind and they upped their game in the second half.

“It was disappointing to leak so many tries.”

Cameron Ellison kicked two first-half penalties for Howe and converted a try by Shaun Gray, while in the second half, Graeme Steedman added a try, which Ellison again converted.

Howe were trying to remain as positive as they could and would be emphasising how they couldn’t afford to lose concentration for even five or 10 minutes, said Stewart.

“We just need to get the performances right. We have to focus,” he added. “The importance of this weekend is massive.”

Some key players were unavailable for various reasons, while injuries were endured in the Borders.

Stewart believed Howe could pull clear of the basement but would probably be in a dogfight with Stewarts Melville, Musselburgh, GHA and Hamilton.