Perfect Sevens conditions greeted the Colts VII as they arrived at the RGS playing fields. Their opening group game against Gordon’s set the tone for what would be a great tournament for the team.
Early tries from Henry Dalton (P) and some rugged defensive from Olaiya Adeniji (F) and Nikolai Marinov (H) saw Gordon’s swept aside 35-0.
Next came Wellington – a true test for any side. The team lost 14-26, with Tom Lynagh (F) scoring two brilliant tries.
The third game was against St. Paul’s, who were fierce in defence but lacking ferocity in attack. Epsom ran in 3 unanswered tries to secure passage into the plate.
A triangular final meant Epsom would face John Fisher and Dulwich for the silverware. John Fisher adopted a Fijian style of attack to which Epsom’s defence had all of the answers. In attack the team used great hands to put Luke Marsh (C) away twice to secure the victory.
The final match again Dulwich proved challenging, with several injuries sustained throughout the day meaning the starting seven from John Fisher would again be called upon with only a five-minute break between games. The whole team showed real grit, not just to take a 3 try lead but to fight back to secure victory even after Dulwich took the lead against the run of play. An outstanding effort from all 12 boys, which was justly rewarded with the plate trophy.
Next on to the nationals where the boys hope to find more success.
Group
vs Gordon’s School WON 33-0
vs Wellington (tournament winners) Lost 14-26
vs St Paul’s WON 24-7
Plate competition
vs John Fisher WON 33-5
vs Dulwich WON 22-19
