MUSSELBURGH RFC fell at the final hurdle as they welcomed back the annual sevens to Stoneyhill.

The tournament returned for the first time in three years after cancellations due to Covid-19, with Musselburgh looking to defend their crown from the last tournament in 2019.

But Marr RFC triumphed in a thrilling final, edging the home side out to claim the Brunton Cup.

The game was tight from the very beginning, with the sides going in at the half level on 7-7.

Marr would go on to win the fixture with the last kick of the game, slotting home a conversion to claim a 17-19 victory.

Two individual awards were given out to outstanding performances, with the Musselburgh Player of the Tournament going to Tom Foley and the Player of the Tournament being awarded to Marr’s Scott Bickerstaff.

Four other county teams played in the event, with Queen Margaret University exiting in the first round, beaten 45-12 by Watsonians.

Haddington would also exit at the first round, losing 38-5 to Highland, and the East Lothian VII fell to a 50-0 defeat against Biggar.

Preston Lodge had a more successful day out, defeating Jed-Forest in the first round 24-14, then beating Edinburgh Accies in the quarter final before losing to eventual winners Marr.

The Calum Veitch Memorial Trophy was also contested between two youth sides, with Haddington claiming victory over Musselburgh.

A Musselburgh RFC spokesperson said: “It was absolutely amazing to have the sevens back.

“It was one of our biggest crowds in a long time and great to have so many friends and families back.

“The rugby on display was also fantastic, with teams from as far as Inverness and Troon coming to play.

“We thank everyone for attending on the day and we look forward to welcoming you all back to Stoneyhill soon.”