Highland coach Davie Carson has conceded defeat in his club’s bid to rival Biggar for the National 1 title but insists his side is up for the challenge of finishing best of the rest in National 1.
The top-of-the-table meeting ended in a one-sided 31-0 win for the home side, who stretched their lead to seven points.
Carson said: “The players are all pretty despondent to be honest but we have to hold our hands up and admit we were beaten by the better side. Without question Biggar are champions elect.
“They are a well-drilled outfit with good experienced players and some talented younger players – and they stick to their game plan well.
“We wanted to push them for the title but they are a strong side. I expect they’ll go on to clinch the championship but we want to stay near the top. There is still a lot for us to play for.”
Heriots took advantage of Highland’s loss as they leapfrogged Carson’s men into second in the division.
The Highland coach was proud of his players for their display but believes Biggar simply had too much quality for his side.
He said: “It was a tough day at the office for us. They totally dominated the scrum. We were missing a couple of boys and it showed. We played our hearts out but they were very impressive.
“In the first half we played against the elements too. The wind and rain was coming towards us but after 35 minutes we were only 7-0 down due to boys throwing their bodies on the line.
“But they scored a penalty try two minutes before half-time and that gave them some control. We came out in the second half and kept the ball well for the first five to 10 minutes but then the wind and rain died down and it changed the game again.
“Three late tries gave them a comfortable win.”