2 weeks ago
6
The curtains came down on the Flash Ship Courier-sponsored Under-19 National Rugby League High School Championships, with Calabar stunning two-time defending champions Cedar Grove Academy in a thrilling 14-10 victory to claim the coveted crown.
Played under wet conditions at Cedar Grove, Calabar surged to an 8-0 halftime lead, thanks to a try by Jahzeel Francis and two goals from Derone Plummer.
Early in the second half, Cedar Grove narrowed the gap to 8-4 with a try from Jayden Codner, but Calabar extended their lead to 10-4 when Rajay Kelley successfully converted a penalty kick.
With less than two minutes left in regular time, Ryan Wright powered through to secure another try for Cedar Grove.
Nathan Brown displayed remarkable composure under pressure, converting the goal to tie the score at 10-10, sending the contest into sudden-death extra time.
Both teams launched relentless attacks in extra time, but it was Calabar’s back-row player Tevez Tulloch who sealed the victory, bulldozing his way to a decisive try in the right corner.
The win marks Calabar’s third Under-19 championship title, adding to their triumphs in 2011 and 2017.
Tulloch’s performance earned him the MVP honour.
English (US) ·