AYRSHIRE rugby union sides have kept their strong title challenges going at pace.

A number of sides from across the county have enjoyed perfect starts to their campaign - but still face stiff competition in their respective title battles.

While others have continued to struggle for consistency, and will be hoping to see their fortunes turn around in coming weeks.

In club rugby's top league, the National Premiership, Ayr RFC remain the team to catch this season.

They made it a perfect six wins from six on Saturday, October 5, securing yet another bonus point victory as they defeated Kelso RFC 48-19 away from home.

Unfortunately for the other Ayrshire side in the league, Marr RFC, they slipped down the table this weekend.

The Troon-based side now sit in third bottom position after they suffered a 55-14 loss away to Currie Chieftains - who leapfrogged their opponents as a result of the scoreline.

Further down the national leagues, in Division Three, Garnock RFC faced a tough challenge last weekend with unbeaten league leaders Allan Glen's visiting Lochshore.

Despite being behind twice, Garnock battled back to take the lead into the closing stages before a late penalty for their opposition levelled the score.

It finished at 38-38, giving Garnock their second draw of the season. The result moved the Lochshore side into second place, one point behind Allan Glen's who have a game in hand on Garnock.

In the final national league, Division Four, Ardrossan Accies continued their perfect start to the campaign as they picked up their fifth straight win of the season.

Whitecraigs were the visitors to the Memorial Field this weekend, with the home side running out comfortable 41-14 winners.

The result means the Accies still lead the way in Division Four, however, they face tough competition from Strathmore who have also won all of their matches so far this season.

(Image: Douglas Torrance)

Into the West regional leagues and most sides took a break from league action as they competed for National Shield glory.

Despite this, only one match was played which involved an Ayrshire side, with Carrick travelling to face Birkmyre RFC.

The Maybole side earned their spot in the next round in comfortable fashion beating their opponents 50-12.

While other sides either progressed or were knocked out without a match kicking off.

Irvine RFC withdrew from the tournament, handing Lenzie a spot in round two.

Kilmarnock benefited from a withdrawal, with last season's winners Cumnock handing their opponents victory, meaning their title defence is over.

In women's rugby, Ayr's winless start to the West Division One season continued after they had to hand Biggar victory due to having insufficient players.

The story was the same for Irvine RFC in Division Two, with Annan handed the win for their scheduled match.

While, in Division Three, Marr are sitting right in the title race after their 41-25 win over Glasgow University.

They are level on points with top side East Kilbride, with just two points separating the teams.

All results, fixtures and league standings can be viewed online at fixtures.scottishrugby.org/club-rugby.