Former Borders College student Rory Darge lit up Murrayfield on Saturday after scoring a wonderful try on his first full start for the national side.
Described by the commentators as a ‘world-class performance’, the Glasgow Warriors flanker performed admirably, scoring the first-half try which brought the home side back into the game before France ran away with things.
Rory started his first Test, after his debut from the bench the week before, and settled quickly. He was a regular menace at the breakdown and picked a great line for Scotland’s try in the 29th minute.
He drew praise from both his coach and captain in the aftermath of the 36 – 17 defeat, particularly for his work on turnovers. The East Lothian man made more successful tackles than any other Scotland player and also had the best carrying stats of anyone on the field.
Rory completed his studies with Borders College on the HND Coaching and Developing Sport course in 2019 and was named ‘Sports Student of the Year’. A product of the FOSROC Scottish Rugby Academy, he made his professional debut for Edinburgh against Leinster in November 2020.
Prior to penning his first professional contract, he has represented Southern Knights in the inaugural FOSROC Super6 campaign, as well as turning out for Melrose in the Tennents Premiership.
He made his first appearance for Glasgow Warriors in April 2021, coming off the bench away to Benetton in the opening match of the 2021 Rainbow Cup.
Curriculum Learning Manager for Sport and Outdoor Activities Nikki Walker commented:
“Even though Rory will be disappointed with the result on Saturday, he can be immensely proud and take real confidence from what was a fantastic individual performance. Having taken time to discuss this as a sports team this morning, it was suggested that we wouldn’t expect anything else from him knowing the talent, attitude and personality Rory showed when he was here with us at Borders College.”
And Rory wasn’t the only Borders College representative, with two other former students playing their part against the world’s most in-form team. Captain and Stuart Hogg, along with fellow Teri Darcy Graham, who have both been outstanding during the competition, helped give France a run for their money.
Unfortunately, France came away comfortable winners in the end and are now favourites to go on and win the competition. Scotland will play their remaining away games against Italy and Ireland.
If you are interested in studying Sport at Borders College, click on the following link to see the list of great courses on offer. https://www.borderscollege.ac.uk/course-search