Title success for Exeter College

By Mark Stevens
3/12/16

Exeter College produced a ruthless display to beat Gosforth Academy 53-19 and make competition history in the AASE League Championship Final at Allianz Park.

England Under-17s starlet Richard Capstick took home the man of the match award as Exeter touched down seven times during a brilliant all-round performance.

Gosforth did score three tries of their own, but it was Exeter who ran out deserved winners to secure their first-ever AASE League trophy.

There is no doubt that Gosforth Academy’s trip to Allianz Park was the longest of their AASE League season. However, it was the Newcastle Falcons affiliated side who flew out of the blocks early in the first half.

They made it count with winger Fraser McNee touching down for the first try of the match after some quick hands from England U17 full-back Morgan Passman.

But for all of Gosforth’s attacking threat, they found themselves behind thanks to fly-half Gwyn Parks, who coolly slotted home two penalties for Exeter College. And in the space of five minutes Exeter moved into a healthy lead after two brilliant pieces of rugby.

Inside centre Connor Vickery capped off a brilliant team move to touch down in the corner for Exeter’s first try of the match before England Under-18 front-row forward Marcus Street dived over for his first score.

For the neutrals in the Allianz Park crowd it was certainly a joy to watch with both sides showing their attacking prowess at every opportunity. Fittingly, it was a try for each side which ended an explosive first half with Exeter leading 25-12.

Exeter’s powerful pack became more and more effective as the game progressed and this told on the scoreboard when England Under-18 prop James Kenny (pictured) and captain Dan Swain went over early in the second period to give Exeter breathing space.

Exeter struggled to deal with Gosforth’s McNees pace all game and he was inches away from touching down after a brilliant solo effort mid-way through the second half.

Capstick soon showed his power and pace again from the scrum to go over for Exeter before centre Ollie Gibbons finished off a fine backs move to effectively move Exeter out of touching distance from their opponents.

It was to Gosforth’s credit that they continued to keep to show their attacking threat and number eight Tom Marshall scored a late consolation for Gosforth to finish the match 53-19.

“It was such a tough game,” said captain Dan Swain. “They made it difficult for us by running everything but we’re so happy to win. It’s been a long journey to get here but to be national champions and do it here is incredible.”