First and foremost, huge credit must go to Penicuik, who travelled with just 15 players. It would have been easy to call it off, but they fronted up, competed throughout and showed real mettle in difficult circumstances.

Royal High ultimately proved too strong, running in five tries in quick 20 minutes during a dominant spell. The platform laid by the forwards provided quality ball, and the backs made full use of it, combining some excellent attacking rugby with clinical finishing to put the game beyond reach.

Just as pleasing for the home side was the defensive improvement. After what can only be described as a few weeks of a laissez-faire attitude and application in defence, there was a much greater level of commitment and organisation. Discipline has also been an area of concern this season, particularly around high tackles, but credit must go to the lads who kept the count into single figures. It may not sound glamorous, but believe me, that represents genuine progress.

As the game wore on, injuries began to hamper Penicuik's efforts. Despite that, they continued to pose a threat, particularly through their impressive 10, 12 and 13, who looked dangerous whenever they got the ball in hand and asked plenty of questions of the Royal High defence.

Overall, it was a better team performance from Royal High, with encouraging signs both in attack and defence. There is still plenty to work on, and the squad know there is room for improvement, but the foundations are moving in the right direction as they look to tighten the bolts further in the weeks ahead.