Stand-in Sinclair boots Tonbridge to victory

A POWERFUL second-half helped Tonbridge claim the Champions Trophy as they beat last year’s winners

Bedford 17-10 at Allianz Park on Friday.

Each team scored a converted try, through Conor Finch for Bedford and Oliver Ward for Tonbridge, to have the scores level at the break but the Kent side pulled away in the second period despite losing their fly-half David Wilkinson again.

But as in the semi-final a couple of weeks ago, lock Declan Sinclair took over the kicking duties and sealed the win for Tonbridge.

Captain George Head crashed through for their second try which Sinclair converted before adding a penalty late on to secure a fine win despite a penalty from Fraser Dingwall for Bedford.

“It’s been an awesome day,” said Head. “Declan’s penalty was a great boost. It kept us ahead and came at the right time.

“Our supporters were tremendous. They provided a huge lift throughout and especially at the end when Bedford were on the attack.”

The AASE League final followed where Exeter College produced a ruthless display to beat Gosforth

Academy 53-19. England U17 Richard Capstick took home the man of the match award as Exeter touched down seven times during a brilliant allround performance.

Gosforth did score three tries of their own, but it was Exeter who ran out deserved winners to secure their first ever AASE League trophy.

“It was such a tough game,” said captain Dan Swain. “They made it difficult for us by running everything but we’re so happy to win. It’s been a long journey but to be national champions and do it here is incredible.” Earlier this week, Felsted became the first school to book their place in the NatWest Cup semi-finals with a 21-16 win at Manchester Grammar. Champions Bromsgrove were due to take on Sir

Thomas Rich’s at the same stage of the competition on Wednesday but the fixture was postponed due to a frozen pitch.