Wanderers produced an abject display at Whitecraigs to rack up another defeat in a match in which victory could have gone to either side as the hosts were only 8 - 0 up at half time with Wanderers still in the frame for a win, writes John Dyer.

After a brisk start by Wanderers reality set in at the first scrum when they were shunted backwards, which put out a strong message from the home team.

Whitecraigs had most of the play but strong defending by Wanderers prevented them from scoring. Finally, the deadlock was broken after 17 minutes when a poor clearance kick from Wanderers allowed the home side’s backs the opportunity to finally break through Greenock's defence to score a try. 5 - 0.

Wanderers did have two opportunities to score, one from McGroarty and the other by winger Roy but both were rebuffed by the home defence.

(Image: alex craig) Another poor kick out of defence gave the home side the opportunity to attack and at a ruck in Wanderers’ 22 co-captain McDaid was yellow carded for a deliberate offside and the home side converted the penalty on half time. 8 - 0.

Wanderers half time chat would have to have included the number of penalties they gave away and rucks they lost, especially when in a scoring position.

The second half started no better for the visitors as they gave away a penalty in their 22, which was quickly taken and allowed the home side’s centre to score under the posts 15 - 0.

Wanderers did fight back but lost the ball on two occasions when they had the opportunity to get themselves back into the match. Changes were made by Greenock, bringing on Graham, Adams and Robertson but it was too late to make any impact.

Graham, Strachan, McDougal and Robb were outstanding in their defensive work, but it was the home side who had the last play, scoring a further try after working their way from their own 22 to score. 20 - 0.

The 2nd XV fared no better, losing 75 - 0 to Whitecraigs 2nds at home.

Wanderers' club sponsor is MMSEARCH; the ladies are sponsored by Straps of Gourock and Brow House Cosmetics.