Earlston 7

Gala YM 10

Joe Dickson

at The Haugh

ALTHOUGH Gala deservedly claimed the derby win on Saturday it was Earlston's defence who can take the most of the plaudits.

The YM enjoyed around 80 percent of the territory and possession, yet the home team held out well for long periods.

It was intense pressure from the Maroons that led to Ben Reid crashing over for an unconverted try after 10 minutes.

While play continued in and around the Earlston 22, Gala couldn't add to their tally until just before the interval.

Slick handling led to Shane Kellett handing off defenders for a try at the corner flag.

Earlston's defence held firm after the interval but they struggled to get out of their own half.

The frustration of not being able to add to the scoreline began to creep into the YM's play and they gave away several penalties.

And as the second half wore on it was Earlston who began to get on top, keeping the visitors pegged back.

The home pressure eventually led to a late try and conversion to collect a bonus-point consolation.

YM's man of the match went to Shane Kellett.

This week YM are away to Dalkeith in a play off in the East Bowl.