THE senior rugby sevens squad of Shebbear College started their competition season before the arrival of the snow, with the side travelling to compete in the Invitational West of England Sevens hosted at Kings College, Taunton.

The competition started with a good game against Exeter School, which Shebbear won comfortably 26-5.

The next game against Bryanston School in Dorset came down to the bounce of the ball in the final minute. Will made an excellent break but as he chased his own kick the ball bounced unpredictably and Bryanston capitalised running the length of the field to secure a hard fought victory.

In their final group game, Shebbear were leading tournament favorites Blundell’s 12-0 at half time, but Blundell’s showed their strength in the second half and came back to win.

These results qualified Shebbear for the shield competition and they faced old rivals and fellow Methodists Truro School in the semi final.

Siaosi opened Shebbear’s account with a break through the middle and then ran in from the half way line. Will’s kicking was excellent throughout the competition both from the restarts and at goal. Jake and Ryan worked hard in the forwards to secure ball and the final result was 26-12 to Shebbear.

The final game was against Hartpury College, who are linked with Gloucester RFC. They run a full time rugby academy so this was always going to be a tough challenge.

Their physicality proved too much and on the smaller of the two pitches, the Shebbear boys were not able to move the ball around like they had done so well in other games.

This final was a test of spirit and Revel and the two Wills really stepped up in defence. Alessandro was outstanding throughout, but this was not enough to win the final.

Against schools of at least four times the size, Shebbear did exceptionally well and the team should all be very proud of their efforts. Players of the tournament were Siaosi and Will.