Rugby Sevens: Two trophies, many fine performances and ‘great character’ shown

Tonbridge boys were among the honours in the recent Rugby Sevens. The U15s and U14s both won their competitions – the Wimbledon College and Reigate Sevens, respectively.

The U16s reached the final of the Plate at Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet, and the U18s made the semi-finals of the Cup at Shiplake College.

The season culminated at Rosslyn Park with the National Schools Sevens. The U18s played some fine rugby on day one, winning all of their group games. They then convincingly beat Glenalmond College 52-17 in the decider to qualify for the Vase Competition on Day 2. The boys gave a fantastic account of themselves but – with injuries taking their toll – lost out narrowly to both Queen Ethelburga’s and Merchiston Castle School, whose strength in depth ultimately proved the difference.

The U16s got off to a fantastic start at Rosslyn Park, winning all of their group games and finishing top of their group. They then went on to lose their final game of the day to King’s School Macclesfield, narrowly missing out on qualifying for day two.

The U14s started strongly, with a 52-0 win in their opening game against Bryanston School. They then came up against a strong Brighton College side, losing 26-10 to a team which progressed to the semi finals. The boys showed great character to put this disappointment behind them as they beat The London Oratory School 33-24, to finish the day on a high note.

Rhys Crane, the School’s Director of Rugby, said: “Despite a slow start to the Sevens season this term, due to weather and cancellations, when the boys have been able to take to the field they have given a fantastic account of themselves. All our teams can be proud of their Sevens performances and the future of Tonbridge Rugby looks very bright.”

Pictured above: The U15s celebrate their competition win at Wimbledon College.