Last night's drizzly conditions didn't stop a huge number of rugby fans flocking to Millbrae to watch Glasgow Warriors take on Exeter Chiefs in a pre-season friendly. Everyone at Ayr RFC was delighted to host the Warriors' last warm-up match before they kick-off their RaboDirect Pro12 campaign, and to welcome the Chiefs all the way from south-west England.
Before kick-off, there was a touching minute's silence in memory of Scotland under-20 player Mitchell Todd, who tragically passed away last week.
It was a low-scoring first half, largely thanks to Glasgow's defensive efforts, as Exeter made for the line on several occasions. Penalties were also missed by the Chiefs' stand-off Ignacio Mieres. The Warriors managed to pull ahead just before half-time, with a successful penalty kick from Duncan Weir.
Mieres again missed penalties at the start of the second half, but his second failed attempt led to Exeter's first try, as it hit the post and was neatly gathered. Hooker Chris Whitehead claimed the score, with Mieres converting.
Weir nosed Glasgow ahead with another penalty, only to miss two more several minutes later. Despite the presence of some of the Warriors' capped players like Weir, Moray Low, John Barclay and Graeme Morrison, they couldn't get any more points on the board.
Perhaps spurred on by their very own chief - resplendent in feathered head-dress and beating a tribal drum (who knew Native Americans were so prevalent in Devon?) - Exeter scored another try, this time by replacement James Hanks. Gareth Steenson converted. A last minute penalty from Steenson brought the final score to Glasgow Warriors 6 Exeter Chiefs 15.
It wasn't the game or result Glasgow were hoping for, but the players kindly stayed on the pitch after the final whistle to sign autographs and have photos taken with the fans.
It's always an exciting prospect to host Glasgow Warriors at Millbrae, and we wish them and Exeter Chiefs all the best for the new season.
EH
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