Epsom’s Boys’ 1st VII headed to Portsmouth Grammar School for the South Coast 7s. With the Seaford 10s cancelled last month, this was the first tournament of the season and a perfect opportunity for the squad to shine. Despite missing several key players due to academy commitments, the wider squad stepped up brilliantly in a competitive environment.
The semi-final was a thrilling contest
Epsom dominated the opening pool games with impressive wins against Sherbourne, RGS Guildford, and Millfield, setting up a quarter-final clash with Marlborough College. A commanding 42-12 victory saw Epsom advance to the semi-finals, where they faced RGS Guildford once again. The semi-final was a thrilling contest, with the scores level at halftime. Converted tries from Quinton, Waugh, Temperley, and Roberts secured a crucial two-point lead, advancing Epsom into the final.
The final proved a different challenge
In the final, Epsom faced Millfield, who had defeated Brighton College in their semi-final match. Although Epsom had beaten Millfield earlier in the pool stages, the final proved to be a different challenge. Epsom fell behind early, but tries from Frewer and Roberts just before halftime brought the score back to 12-10 in Millfield’s favour. Temperley’s try shortly after the break, following excellent work from Purves, nudged Epsom ahead. However, an error at the kick-off gave Millfield possession, and they capitalised on it, making the score 17-15.
Kit Fleming delivered a moment of brilliance
With time running out, Kit Fleming delivered a moment of brilliance, slicing through two Millfield defenders to score under the posts, sealing a dramatic victory for Epsom. It was a fantastic way to kick off the 7s season, with the squad playing superbly all day and fully deserving their triumph, etching Epsom’s name on the Cup for the first time. To cap off a successful day, Flynn Roberts was awarded Player of the Tournament.
Group Results
- v Sherbourne School W 38-7
- v RGS Guildford W 31-21
- v Millfield School W 26-7
Cup Quarter Final
- v Marlborough College W 42-14
Cup Semi Final
- v RGS Guildford W 28-26
Cup Final
- V Millfield School W 22-17
