The King’s 1st XV rugby team provided a most impressive display of rugby talent in their fearless commitment to this year’s annual local derby, with Franceso C scoring a hat-trick of tries and further scores from Sam E, Will D and Ollie R.
After an early penalty score by RGS in the first-half, King’s fought back brilliantly, adding pressure and well and truly taking control of the game, with four tries scored before the half-time whistle. Will D scored first after a dominating maul, followed closely by Fran C’s scramble over the line in the corner. After King’s worked the overlap most impressively, Sam E followed suit, and Fran C then scored his second try, making it four for King’s and a 22-3 lead going into the half-time break.
Heading into the second-half, King’s came out just as strong, camping on the RGS try-line with eager focus and determination to score another try, which was successfully delivered by Fran C at close-range. RGS came back with pressure and secured their second, but King’s again fought back, and replacement Alex D scored King’s sixth try, thereby securing victory for King’s.
Foundation Director of Sport and 1st XV coach, Jonny Mason, was elated with the result, commenting, “For both the 1st XV and 2nd XV to perform in the manner they did over the weekend was testament to the time and effort the boys have put into this term’s rugby programme. While not surprised, I was particularly impressed that both teams put in such dominant performances in these high-profile local derbies, when the pressure to deliver their very best is so great.”
Team Captain, Prop Archie M, added, “The King’s campus has been buzzing this week following the game on Sunday. We will all take great pride in returning The Modus Cup to the trophy cabinet, following short visits to our two Prep Schools. I’m so proud to have led such a close-kit, well-drilled team. We’ve come a long way, competing at a high level both nationally and regionally; it’s great to secure this win in our own city too.”
Headmaster Gareth Doodes was equally ecstatic with the results from last weekend: “Our two senior teams have done us proud. It was fantastic to see such exceptional displays of sporting athleticism and teamwork at both games. Equally, it was a pleasure to join the supporters from both schools in the spirit of friendly rivalry. A huge thank you to all those who joined us.”