Musselburgh 39-27 Glasgow Accies

GRANT Talac was “pretty happy” as his Musselburgh side were victorious in the BT National League Cup on Saturday.

Talac’s side scored six tries in the 39-27 win over Glasgow Accies, and the Burgh coach lauded the effort of his players.

He told Courier Sport: “All the team played very well as a collective and we created some good opportunities.”

“It was also pleasing to see some youngsters making telling contributions in the match.”

And he also heaped praise on veteran Leitch, who came out of retirement to put in a man of the match performance.

Burgh started well, and after a good move, Arthur crashed over for a debut try. Leitch missed the conversion, and Accies cut the gap to 5-3 with a penalty.

Another flowing attack saw the hosts score their second try, with Ruairidh Young – the former Musselburgh man who has rejoined the club after spells with Edinburgh Accies and Currie – diving over.

Leitch converted, and a third try soon followed as Andrew Cook crossed five minutes before half time, with Leitch again converting for 19-3.

The visitors cut the gap to nine points at the break after Jack McCready’s converted try on the stroke of half time.

A penalty reduced the arrears further early in the second period, before Burgh prop Craig Owenson profited from a fine run by James Doig to score their fourth try.

Accies hit back when Cowan crossed, and the conversion cut the gap to four points (24-20), before a Leitch penalty pushed the lead to seven.

The veteran then all-but sealed victory for the hosts with a fifth try, and Andrew Cook’s second score confirmed Burgh’s safe passage into the second round.

Glasgow Accies had the final say, though, as James Loomes touched down with the final play.

And Talac also praised the visitors, adding: “They were a decent side that liked to throw the ball about. I think they’ll go pretty well.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if they were promoted.”

Burgh host Selkirk in their National 1 opener on Saturday.