CALDICOT RFC Under 14s produced some ‘champagne rugby’ to remain undefeated in this year’s Abergavenny Rugby Tournament.

Head coach Jon Rowe said, “It was a fantastic achievement for the lads as it’s a prestigious tournament and many teams try to enter it. It was the first time we’d managed to get in – and the first major trophy we’ve ever won.”

The competition included teams from as far afield as Portsmouth, Senghenydd and Cwmafan.

“We managed to go undefeated all day, playing six matches - winning five, drawing one and scoring 18 tries in the process by attacking play, which the coach from Portsmouth likened to ‘champagne’ rugby,” said Jon.

“Everything that we’ve worked on all season came to fruition. The passing and support running was fantastic.”

Caldicot met the second placed team, Cwmafan from West Wales, in the decider and drew 0-0, in a game of high intensity in attack and defence.

“Their record for the day was won four and drew two, scoring ten tries. They’re one of the best teams in Wales, with players going on to the likes of Llanelli Scarlets so holding them to a draw was a tremendous effort.

“The whole event was very well run and there was a great atmosphere.

“It was a long day for the lads though. By the time they lifted the trophy at 6pm they were too shattered to celebrate, but everyone was talking about it on social media that evening.”

Remarkably the team’s centre and vice captain Joe Tapp, discovered the next day that he’d played the final match with a broken arm.

“He said it was sore and we had a look, but he insisted he was OK and wanted to carry on. That’s typical of Joe. He’s a really tough lad who plays for Newport District and he never complains about anything.”