St Charles College hosted Clifton for a full derby rugby day from U9 – U19 on Saturday. Over 40 fixtures were played on the Saints campus in perfect autumn conditions. The crowds that stayed for the 1st XV match were treated to an excellent match-up that was only decided in the final play of the day. The Saints 1st XV led for most of the match until a late surge from Clifton, and a 40 metre penalty, put them in front with precious few minutes left on the clock. Clifton absorbed some pressure and defended well and with a lineout for Clifton on the 22m with only 30 seconds left, the game was almost secured for the visitors. The Saints are a team that have shown grit and their-never-say-die attitude held them in good stead on Saturday as a cross field kick was collected by Prince Mazeka who launched a scintillating final counter-attack. Beating a number of defenders, stepping off both feet, he was eventually brought down in the 22m but managed to get an off-load to the Saints captain, Luke Adam, who got within five metres of the line. With time up on the clock, the Saints flanker, Brent Louwrens, powered his way over under the poles to score the match winning try. The final whistle sounded directly after the conversion was made, St Charles College winning 31-26.
Photo: Saints lock, Sean McCord, securing possession against Clifton
Photo: Saysha Baker