Jim Thompson orchestrated Heriot’s' convincing win over Edinburgh Academicals at the weekend and says that his return to Premier One duties was a hugely beneficial experience.

The 23-year-old full-back, who is in his debut season as a professional with Edinburgh, scored one try and helped Heriot’s score a further seven to move the club into second spot in the Scottish Hydro Electric Premier One standings.

After previously featuring in Magners League action for Edinburgh, including his first ever start at Ulster, Thompson says returning to Goldenacre has helped him to maintain his sharpness.

Thompson said: “It was a good win for Heriot’s and I was really pleased to be able to make a contribution.

“It is good that we can go back and play for our clubs. I really enjoy going back to play for Heriot’s, I’ve been there for the past four years now.

“It was a fast game on Saturday, so it keeps me ticking over and it is great to see Heriot’s moving up the table.”

Scotland A prop Ryan Grant scored a try for Stirling County in their 44-23 defeat at Melrose, but wing Roland Reid suffered an early injury and had to be replaced.

Ben Meyer scored a try for Premier One new boys Selkirk in their 29-17 loss at West of Scotland while both Andrew Easson and Andrew Turnbull ended up on the losing side as Currie crashed to defeat at Watsonians.

Steve Lawrie and Fraser McKenzie lined up alongside former Edinburgh lock Fergus Pringle in Boroughmuir’s pack, but the current champions still finished up losing 34-10 against Ayr at Millbrae.

Edinburgh actively supports and promotes all the rugby clubs in and around the east of Scotland.