East Grinstead RFC win Sussex under 16s Rugby Final at Hove

East Grinstead RFC beat Heathfield 34-15 in the Sussex U16s Rugby Final at Hove Recreation Ground last Sunday.

Dante Maynard scored the first try, Felix Bateman-Champain scored two tries midway through the game and Louie White completed the try scoring for East Grinstead.

Half time saw the game go in with East Grinstead leading 14-10.

All smiles after their cup victory (Image: East Grinstead RFC)

They soon made it 21-10 and despite some hard work defensively from Heathfield, East Grinstead continued to extend their lead.

Heathfield scored a try late on to make the game 34-15 but East Grinstead came out as victors.

They have won 15 out their 17 matches this season including visiting and beating some of the best teams in Surrey, Kent and Northamptonshire with an “exciting and attacking brand of rugby”.

Rex Whittaker, one of East Grinstead’s coaches, said: “It was a privilege to be at Hove to see a very tough, tense and close final.

Back row from left - Joe Burnett, Henrie Agate, Vincent Scott, Nathan Oliver, William Cawdery, Louie White, Darragh Fitzroy, Ted Hardisty, Tate Williams, Oliver Hodge, Dante Maynard, Felix Bateman-Champain (Captain), Luke Norris, Mason Edwards, Leo Emery, Tommy Nasta. Front row from left - Rafe Coetser, Huw Page, Toby Gillam, Barley O’Conor, Ewan Massingham, Harry Higginson, Charlie Coxon, Jaimie Gregory (Image: East Grinstead RFC)

“Heathfield were excellent but East Grinstead’s quality and invention unlocked the game.’’

Mike Champain, one of the East Grinstead's coaches, added: “The sun was shining and the pitch was dry, conditions near perfect for both teams, who enjoyed a strong running game.

“It is the end of a long road and a goal set from when the boys were U15s.

“A very easy group of boys to coach, they enjoy learning, playing with and for each other, but mostly they enjoy winning.”

Get more stories delivered to your inbox every day by signing up to our morning newsletter

Lee Gregory, one of the parents, praised East Grinstead after their successful season.

He said: “The whole squad of boys have become champions of Sussex through skill, togetherness, hard work and most of all, by playing in the true spirit of rugby with fair play and respect for others, and they deserve their success.”

The club thanked Huw Page, Vincent Scott, Joe Burnett, Will Johnstone and Henry Agate for their help in supporting the team.