Throughout the group stages of this seasons tag tournament it was clear that St. Patrick’s RC, Newport and Gilwern School, Abergavenny were going to challenge for top honours. They did not disappoint.
In front of a bumper crowd at Rodney Parade both teams produced some breathtaking rugby with effort and commitment in abundance. The game was a tense affair with the score very close throughout. As the Blues & Dragons emerged from the players’ tunnel, which prompted community officer and match referee Janice Chappell to blow the final whistle to end the match, the result was five tries to three in favour of St. Patrick’s RC.
St. Patrick’s were ecstatic and crowned Dragons Challenge Tag Trophy Champions 2010 in front of the 8,000 strong crowd. The youngsters were delighted that they had not only experienced playing on Rodney Parade but would be the proud champions for the whole year. The trophies, shields and cup were presented by Dragons & Welsh star player Luke Charteris.
A very keen supporter of the final, Education Officer Phil James, commenting, “This annual competition has become a super event for all our primary school throughout the region and it is great to see that our contribution means so much to these youngsters. The sheer determination from both the boys and in particular the girls on display was outstanding, this resulted in the games Most Valuable Player Award being presented to Jessica Phillis of Gilwern. The youngsters can really feel proud of their achievements this evening. I offer my congratulations to both schools”.
Whilst the youngsters were excited, you would have been excused in thinking that the coaches of each team, Mr. Michael Rein of St Patrick’s and Mr Richard Aylett of Gilwern, had played themselves the way they were barking instructions and waving their arms throughout the game and jumping for joy at the final whistle.
Mike Sage, tournament organiser, passed on his congratulations to the two schools who conducted themselves in a most professional manner and were a credit to the school, their parents and themselves. The trophy will now take pride of place in the trophy cabinet at St. Patrick’s RC until next year’s grand final.
Many thanks to Melin Homes for again supporting, what has become the main annual tag tournament in the region and the most sought after cup to add to the schools trophy cabinet.
