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Ipswich School’s U16 rugby team have made history by becoming the first school in the East of England to win the National Cup, following a dramatic and unforgettable final against Collegiate School, Bristol.
Ipswich School’s U16 rugby team have made history by becoming the first school in the East of England to win the National Cup, following a dramatic and unforgettable final against Collegiate School, Bristol. Played in sunny conditions at the neutral venue of Oundle School, the match was a superb contest between two excellent sides and provided a thrilling spectacle for the large crowd in attendance.
Ipswich went into half-time with a 15–7 lead, but Collegiate fought back strongly in the second half. With just five minutes remaining, the Bristol side had edged ahead 20–15, leaving Ipswich with everything to do. In an extraordinary finish, Ipswich scored a last-minute try to level the match at 20–20. The conversion attempt narrowly missed, leaving the final score tied at full time.
Initially, Collegiate were declared the winners on the basis of the first try scored. However, after a review of the competition rules, it was confirmed that Ipswich had scored more tries overall, meaning the National Cup title was awarded to Ipswich School.
Reflecting on the achievement, the Head of Rugby, Matt Searle said:
“It’s incredibly difficult to put into words just how proud we are of this group. To win the National Cup for the first time in Ipswich School’s history is a remarkable achievement, but what makes it even more special is who these boys are and what they represent.
We only have eighteen boys in the year group who choose to play rugby, and every single one of them has committed wholeheartedly to the journey. They give up their already limited free time for extra sessions, gym work and constant self-improvement, not because they have to, but because they genuinely care about each other and about representing our school with pride.
The final summed them up perfectly. After a difficult second half where nothing seemed to go our way for nearly twenty-five minutes, they refused to panic or give in. To find the belief and composure to score in the final minute speaks volumes about the mentality they’ve built together.
This group has earned everything through hard work, humility and togetherness. They have created a moment of history for Ipswich School, but more importantly they have set a standard for what commitment and team spirit should look like. They are a very special group of young men and it has been a privilege to watch them grow and achieve something they will remember for the rest of their lives.”
A special mention was also made to Mr Lowe, who has guided the team superbly throughout the season and held the group to the highest standards. His impact on the players has been significant, and he thoroughly deserves to share in this extraordinary achievement.
The victory marks a landmark moment for Ipswich School rugby and a moment of great pride for the players, coaches and the wider school community.
