On Saturday 11th May the Vale of Glamorgan Schools U11s retained the DC Thomas Cup with a 7 tries to 2 victory over Newport Schools at the Millennium Stadium in an excellent display of running rugby
Vale Schools, in their commemorative golden strip, looked sharp as they kicked off in brilliant sunshine. The opening minutes were frenetic and the Vale had two scoring chances denied by some good Newport defence. However it did not take long before the Vale had something to show for their dominance. A sharp break down the right flank by Captain Iestyn Galton was followed by a flick inside to full back Ben Batten who powered over for the first score. The Vale scored again soon after when outside half Jamie Howells spotted the narrowest of gaps and sidestepped his way over. Newport to their credit did respond strongly and crossed the line for a try of their own, this just stung the Vale into action and 3 clinical tries before half time by Lewys Williams, Ed Thomas and Mason Grady put the half time score at 5 tries to 1.
As the game moved into the second half Vale were at their rampant best, their marauding forwards and electric backs were combining time and time again to rip Newport Schools to shreds. Rhys Gentles crossed twice in the second half to round off. The final score was a richly deserved victory by 7 tries to 2.
The significance of winning this national trophy for the second time in two years should not be underestimated; the Vale had never won this trophy until last year, so to win it and retain it is beyond everyone’s wildest dreams.
The A team have enjoyed a fantastic season, losing only the first game and winning the next 16.
Coach Duncan Mottram said, “We’re absolutely over the moon; this is just reward for the hard work put in by both the players and coaching staff over the season.”