Bedford School 1st XV Rugby Team were narrowly
defeated 17-10 by Tonbridge School in the final in the Champions Trophy Final
at Allianz Park on Friday 2 December 2016.

The thrilling final was a true match of determination
and skill from both schools.  In the opening stages, a strong Bedford
defense kept Tonbridge at bay despite their repeated attempts to score. 
Bedford then turned the tables and were the first to cross the line with a
great try from Connor Finch, which was converted by Fraser Dingwall, to propel
Bedford into the lead.  However, Tonbridge School hit back quickly to
level the game and go into the break 7-7. 

After half time, Bedford came out firing and put
Tonbridge under real pressure with their kicking game.  Nonetheless,
Tonbridge then stepped up to score a crucial try, which they then converted for
the full seven points.  Bedford managed to stay in contention with a penalty
kick from Dingwall that saw them add a further three points to their total; it
wasn’t quite enough on the day for them to hold off the opposition.

Bedford pressed until the last, with winger Faysal
Olabooye bundled into touch by the corner flag after a thrilling run down the
left. It wasn’t to be, however, as Tonbridge refused to yield.  Then with
just a few minutes left on the clock, Tonbridge scored a penalty to finish the
match 17-10.

While Bedford could not emulate their victory over
Epsom College from last year at the same ground, the team can certainly hold
their heads high: to reach the final in two years in succession is a huge
achievement, and they performed at the highest level in a high-calibre match
that will be remembered for a long time to come.  We are incredibly proud
of the team and their efforts, not only on the day but in their journey to
reach the final, which saw them defeat St Paul’s School, Canford School and
Epsom College.

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