London Skolars enjoyed the most successful weekend in their history with four teams in action, ranging from the Under 12’s to the first team.
First up were the Under 12’s who, in their inaugural season, surpassed all expectations to reach their divisional Grand Final. They were also the first junior side in London to reach the Grand Finals, at any youth age group, after finishing fifth in the table. The final was played in Twickenham on Friday evening against Elmbridge Eagles and, despite leading 10-4 at half time , it proved to be a match too far for the Skolars boys as Elmbridge finished the stronger to win the match 28-14. Nonetheless everyone present acknowledged the achievements of a team that were only put together in March and included a large number of boys who had never played rugby before. As well as establishing a 12’s team this season the club has also launched their minis, for over 7’s. The minis now have 30 members and met for the last time this season on Sunday.
On Saturday Skolars Under 18’s faced South London Storm in their Grand Final at New River. An end to end absorbing match saw Skolars facing defeat as they trailed 30-14 with time running out. A spirited fight back saw Skolars tie the scores at 30-30 just before the final whistle. This meant the two teams would play 10 minutes of extra time with the Golden point rule applying. Skolars needed no more than a minute to score decisive winning points and win the final, amid wild scenes of jubilation.
Later on in the day Skolars A team, who had already finished top of the Southern Premier division, faced unbeaten Portsmouth Navy Seahawks in the final of the Challenge Trophy. After a closely contested first half Skolars scored 32 unanswered points in the second half to win the match 56-10 and lift the trophy. Jermaine Coleman contributed 20 points and Louis Robinson was named man of the match.
On Sunday the first team returned to action at New River and faced South Wales Scorpions in a Championship 1 fixture. The visitors opened the scoring with an early converted try but that was the only time they were to trouble the scoreboard as Skolars, after leading 18-6 at half time, ran in a further eight second half tries to finish 64-6 winners. Dylan Skee scored 28 points and that gave the scrum half 28 points and a new club record, beating the 26 he recorded against North Wales earlier in the season. This was the second successive match that Skolars had posted a score of 64 points. Next up is a home fixture against Rochdale on Sunday 5th August, KO 3.00pm, with both teams hoping to keep their play-off ambitions alive
All in all a great weekend for London Skolars teams in action bringing unprecedented success to the club.
