Fitting Finale for Melin Homes Grand Final

Throughout the group stages of this seasons tag tournament it was clear that Glasllwch and St. Mary’s RC primaries were going to challenge for top honours. They did not disappoint.

In perfect conditions both teams produced some breath-taking rugby during the half time final at the Dragons v Leinster match. The game was a tense affair as the lead changed from one team to the other. Community officer & referee Janice Chappell blew up to end the final at 4 tries to three in favour of St. Mary’s RC primary, Newport.

St. Mary’s RC Primary were crowned Melin Homes Challenge Trophy Champions 2012 in front of the 8,000+ strong crowd. All the youngsters were delighted that they had the experience of playing on Rodney Parade to emulate their role models at the Dragons and the trophies, shields and cup were presented by Dragons prop Hugh Gustafson & second row Scott Morgan which was another bonus for the children.

The Most Valuable Player Award was presented to impressive team player, Morgan Mohring of Glasllwch. The youngsters can really feel proud of their achievements they did themselves, their families and schools proud.

Mike Sage, tournament organiser, commenting on the final said, “I knew it would be a very close match having seen both team progress through the qualifying stages. The skills on display were superb and really entertained the vast crowd. Congratulations to both teams on reaching the final and producing such a great game. The crowd clearly enjoyed the tag rugby as they cheered and clapped throughout the game and during the final presentation”.

Many thanks to Melin Homes for again sponsoring, what has become the main annual tag tournament in the region and the sought after cup to add to the schools trophy cabinet. Also a thank you to the Friend of Newport Rugby Trust for sponsoring the match ball and tags for the group stages and finale. Your support is very much appreciated.