06/09/2026
🔥 DERBY DAY DRAMA
Kinloss Eagles 29–31 Moray RFC
The first league fixture of the new season brought the Eagles face-to-face with local rivals Moray RFC, with just eight miles separating the two clubs. After opening the campaign with a huge Shield victory, Kinloss headed into the derby full of confidence and looking to make another statement.
And the Eagles couldn't have started better.
A superb backs move from a solid scrum created the opening, with Harry Toro finishing with some excellent footwork to cross in the corner. Lewis Green added the conversion to make it 7–0.
Moray were then awarded a penalty in front of the posts but failed to convert, before I Rocavasiga — was shown yellow for attempting to intercept the ball.
Despite the disruption, Kinloss continued to apply pressure. After a series of penalties against the Eagles, Lewis took the opportunity to add another three points, extending the lead to 10–0.
Then came another huge moment. I Rocavasiga returned from the sin bin and immediately made his presence felt, powering over from a lineout. Lewis converted, putting Kinloss firmly in control at 17–0.
Moray finally managed to cross the whitewash, but the Eagles responded almost immediately. Lewis Green produced a brilliant individual break through the middle of the Moray defence, dancing his way through to score and restore Kinloss' advantage.
At 24–7, the Eagles looked firmly in control.
But the derby was about to change dramatically.
Moray refused to go away and began to claw their way back into the contest. Kinloss' discipline, which had already caused problems during the opening half, continued to cost the Eagles valuable territory and momentum.
The visitors chipped away at the lead, scoring twice to bring the game back to 24–19. Suddenly, what had looked like a comfortable Kinloss victory was becoming a genuine contest.
Moray then completed their comeback to move 26–24 ahead.
With the pressure mounting, Kinloss needed a response — and Jacob Raduadua provided it. The Eagles regained the lead at 29–28, setting up a frantic final ten minutes.
Neither side was willing to give an inch. Moray continued to press and eventually found the score that put them back in front, 31–29.
The Eagles had opportunities to respond, but Moray held firm through the closing stages to secure the derby victory.
For Kinloss, the frustration will come from knowing exactly how close they were. A 24–7 lead had been established through some excellent rugby, but ill-discipline allowed Moray to stay alive long enough to turn the game around.
With Harry Toro, Lewis Green, I Rocavasiga and Jacob Raduadua all finding the scoresheet, there were plenty of positives to take from the performance.
We knew the start of the season was always going to be tough. With a number of our players currently away on deployment, the squad has had to adapt and dig deep. But now we're starting to see more and more of those players return to The Nest, adding strength and depth to the squad as the season progresses.
The result may hurt, but this Eagles side is only going to get stronger.
Final: Kinloss Eagles 29–31 Moray RFC
