Townsend returns from injury

The 32-year-old Border Reivers stand-off has not played for eleven weeks due to an ankle injury but showed glimpses of magic as the Bone Steelers defeated the Tremblers 43-7 and were beaten 35-5 by St George, the England back up squad, this morning at the Exiles Club.

Townsend, Scotland's record cap holder was pleased with the run out as he targets the Reivers' European tie with Brive next Sunday for his full comeback.

He said: "It was tiring and hot out there but I enjoyed it and the team played some good rugby. We competed well [against St George] in the first half but their professionalism told after the break. I was pleased to get back on the pitch though after a frustrating spell."

Admitting that his ankle was still causing him some discomfort Townsend added: "My ankle was sore when I went in for a tackle against St George but I think that is just because I have not taken contact for a while."