The 1st XV have had a turbulent season. Captained by Finn Arbuckle, they have had their epic wins (against Churcher’s College, University College School and Mill Hill School amongst others) and then some matches that they would rather forget. Before we move on to the football season in January, the 1st XV took on Cokethorpe School for their final game of the season, and with a fantastic outcome. Thank you to Finn for the following report of the game:
‘We scored very early on in the game from a great counter attack, which immediately put the fire in us. Cokethorpe came back with two quick tries after that, which made us more determined. Although the tries were coming thick and fast, the first half of the game was not without a fair share of drama. Ross Johnstone was out of action early on, when his finger was nastily dislocated. Despite this injury, we didn’t let it distract us from the game at hand. Joe Booth then powered over the line for our second try, and then a third came not long afterwards from Louis Ashcroft. Two penalties from Joe Booth made the score 27-14 with just 15 minutes to go.
It was at this moment that Cokethorpe scored again; 27-19. The score was closing up and we were determined to make this last game our best. In the closing moments of the game we scored again, thanks to a well-executed backline move finished off by Els Frisby, securing a solid win over our rivals. All of the conversions scored as well, which meant that we finished the game with a victory of 34-17. It was a great last game for all of the Year 13 boys, and a great season from which we can take many positives. I’ve loved being Captain of Rugby for the season and feel very lucky to have played with such a great and committed team.’
