Edinburgh dominate 2008 'Burgh Varsity competition

The 2008 'Burgh Varsity competition proved to be a highly a one-sided affair with Edinburgh University dominating in four of the five events. In recent years, the Varsity has proved to be a close encounter, however, this year Edinburgh cruised to victory in all field matches, losing only the newly-included boat club challenge.

Now in its fourth year, the annual 'Burgh Varsity competition is a growing event; its significance being reflected by the impressive levels of commitment from both universities in all five fixtures. Although all the results clearly signified Edinburgh's dominance, every event began with a tense and highly-contested opening, with both sides showing tremendous heart and determination to win. All events were played and supported in the best possible fashion, reflecting the strong friendly rivalry between the two universities.

Edinburgh was first seen to flex its sporting muscles late on Monday evening, when the Ladies' Hockey fixture got underway at Peffermill. The result was a comprehensive 6-0 victory for the home side, setting the tone for what would be a near-total demolition of Heriot-Watt in the forthcoming events.

Hoping to emulate the success of the Edinburgh ladies on Monday night, Edinburgh's footballers took to the pitch and did not fail to deliver. Both sides looked to be on equal terms in the opening minutes, but it was Edinburgh that was seen to be the more threatening side as the first half progressed, with in-form striker, Michael Hazeldine, looking dangerous up-front. The game ended 2-0 to the home side, with goals either side of half time.

Having been humiliated in last year's Varsity match, Edinburgh's rugby men were eager to lay their daemons to rest, and did so in emphatic fashion. Grit and determination from the offset resulted in the home team running in three converted tries and scoring six penalties, wrapping up the game at 39-10.

Before the Men's hockey had begun, it was clear that the Varsity quaiche would be returning to Edinburgh's trophy cabinet, but that did not stop Simon Sampson and his men from going out guns-blazing. Heriot-Watt Sports Union President, Ross Simpson was mindful of the 5-0 whitewash that was now looking like a realistic possibility for the home side, and his confidence was dealt a severe blow as he watched Edinburgh secure a convincing 3-1 victory, despite a gusty display from the visitors.

The final event of the day came in the form of the newly-introduced university "row-off." Never having held such an event in previous Varsity competitions, neither side knew of the strengths of their opponents. The event, which took place indoors and was undertaken using rowing machines, took the format of three races over a distance of 2000 metres, with victory going to whichever side won two of the three head-to-head battles. The physically demanding challenge was eventually won by Heriot Watt, who were greatly relieved to have avoided the whitewash.

This year's Varsity contest was clearly the biggest yet. The strength of competition, as well as spirit of the games and the support saw a perfect example of how sport should be played and watched. With the competition going from strength to strength with each passing year, the future looks bright for university sport in the capital, with the 2008 'Burg Varsity serving as testimony to the sporting talents and achievements of both Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt.

Edinburgh University Sports Union President, Joe Gray, said: I am amazingly happy with the performances of the players from both universities, the large and vocal crowd, the spirit of the competition and ultimately the result. The addition of a row-off capped a perfect day.