Verlamians RFC came out on top in a thrilling Herts President Trophy Final against Royston RFC, held at Welwyn Garden City.
Verulamians produced a powerful defensive display from outset but could not turn the pressure into points in the early stages of the game.
Royston went 3-0 up after a penalty was given in front of the post in their first incursion into Verulamian’ 22.
Verulamians applied more pressure but against the run of play a kick over the top saw Royston score in the corner for a try which went unconverted.
Vs started to play some upfront rugby which lead to the Royston defence being drawn narrow, allowing them to spread the ball wide and some clever footwork from winger Ryan Taylor saw him cross the whitewash in the corner.
With half-time fast approaching, Verulamians picked up the pace, barraging the Royston defence with attack after attack and a strong run out wide by centre Ben Russell saw him skip through one tackle and score in the corner. Vs went into half-time with a 12-8 lead.
The second half saw Verulamians produce a performance of character after being reduced to 14 men after No.8 Tim Fretter was adjudged to of held on to one too many balls on the floor and saw yellow. Even with the numerical disadvantage, Verulmians managed to work their way into the Royston half and picked up a penalty which duly converted by Ben Russell to give his side a seven-point lead.
From the kick-off Verulamians managed to work their way up the pitch and again won a penalty in Royston half, but Russell was unable to convert on this occasion.
Having been restored to full strength, Verulamians managed to get into one last position and earn themselve another penalty, this time in front of the posts. Ben Russell stepped up to kick the three points.
The remainder of the game was an impressive defensive display by Verulamians where no man left the pitch not having given their all. The final whistle saw Verulamians triumph 18-8, and the delight on and off the pitch could be seen by all.
Notable displays on the day included a commanding performances from Mark Evan and Jack Alynson. Hooker James Hayes gave a master class in taking the scrum against the head with 14 turnovers at the scrum, but all players should be commended on the effort and desire shown on the pitch.
Team: A Clark, J Hayes, S Crown, D Barnes, R Wildey, D Westhead, J Brouder, T Fretter, M Evans, J Alynson, R Taylor, S Townsend, B Russell, B Bruce, G Waters. Subs: H Mack, M Ainsworth, A Paton, C Drysdale.
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