HILLFOOTS RFC kicked off their season with a strong victory over Aberfeldy at home on Sunday.

The Foots welcomed the Perth and Kinross side to Tillicoultry, starting off on the front foot and scoring the first try of the match through Iain Anderson.

The visitors clawed their way back into the match and took the lead after moving the ball wide and getting it over the line. The following conversion was successful in putting Aberfeldy ahead.

Foots were determined not to lie down, however, with Ross McNeil powering his way over to the right of the posts to bring his side back into things. Callum Williamson added the extras to restore the lead for the hosts.

Hillfoots began to really stamp their authority on the match, with Ryan Butterworth reaching the right corner, to send the game 17-7 in favour of the home side at half time.

Head coach Graeme Simpson warned his side that Aberfeldy would take advantage if they switched off so it was vital to avoid more lapses in concentration.

Hillfoots responded with two tries in quick succession, both coming courtesy of Andy Fraser – the Foots man latched onto a fine move from Paul Slade and Kev Aitken for the first and showed his own strength in charging over the line for the second.

Aberfeldy had some luck going their way and capitalised on ill-discipline from Foots to try and find a way back into the match.

However, Foots grabbed the last try of the game, with Fraser scoring a difficult final conversion to see off the game as 43-12 to the hosts.

“What a great way to kick off our season,” Simpson said. “We have ambitions to do well this year and to get off to a start like that really created a good feel among the team.

“I’m looking forward to building on it next week against Strathmore.”

Fraser Christie was chosen as man of the match, receiving the Bob Dewar Cup – given to the MOTM of the first home game in each season.

AWARD: Fraser Christie won the Bob Dewar Cup for his performance against Aberfeldy.AWARD: Fraser Christie won the Bob Dewar Cup for his performance against Aberfeldy. (Image: John Wilson)

The cup was named after a former rugby hooker and youth coach, with Bob’s grandson Robert Kelley on hand to deliver the trophy.

Hillfoots go on the road next week for a trip to face Strathmore 2nd XV.