Haltwhistle Rugby Football Club emerged victorious at the Corbridge Beer Festival's Stay Strong Stu seven-a-side rugby tournament, securing the vase in the social division after a day of tough competition.
The team, recently re-established and comprised of players from the town and surrounding area, played five challenging games throughout the tournament, ultimately clinching the title in the final match.
For the sevens competition at the beer festival, the team assembled a squad consisting of both familiar faces and debutants.
The experienced duo of Martyn Hutton and Jonny Pape once again led the team, claiming the coveted Man of the Match title belt for outstanding performances in individual matches, alongside newcomers Spencer Tolly and Owen Shield.
The squad was supported by their loyal sponsors, friends, and families, who cheered them on from the sidelines.
Although Haltwhistle suffered a decisive defeat against Scottish charity team 'Wooden Spoon' in the first round of the pool stage, the team remained in good spirits.
Haltwhistle progressively improved in their subsequent pool games, facing Signal Hill Rugby Club, an American touring team, ending with a much more competitive scoreline.
The final pool game proved to be a more serious affair against 'River,' a youthful team with superior fitness and speed.
Haltwhistle managed to hold the youngsters to a tie at halftime before ultimately conceding victory in the second period.
Advancing to the vase semi-finals and finals, Haltwhistle decided to test their potential by fielding their strongest side in each match.
Their decision paid off as they secured a 25-12 victory over the Tyndale Barbarians in a serious yet friendly encounter that was enjoyed by both the players and the small crowd that had gathered.
The final match pitted Haltwhistle against 'River' once again, following their dispatch of Prudhoe and Stocksfield in the semi-finals.
This match showcased a style of play reminiscent of old school rugby, characterized by big hits, aggressive rucking, and provocative banter.
The experience of the Haltwhistle players proved beneficial, enabling them to overcome the youthful energy of their opponents and claim the championship.
The Vase was presented to Haltwhistle RFC by Celia Ridley, the mother of Stu Ridley, a friend of many of the players.
The tournament was held in Stu's memory, with 'Stay Strong Stu' continuing to raise funds for charitable causes.
The team's victory was celebrated at the beer festival and carried on late into the night at their primary sponsor and honorary clubhouse, The Black Bull.
Marty Campbell, the landlord of The Black Bull, said: "I am so proud of all of you. For this team to go from what it was- from nothing a few weeks ago- to this, it’s fantastic, boys. It can only get better.”
The Haltwhistle RFC Stay Strong Stu Sevens squad included Alex Birkinshaw, Ian Charlton, Ed Craney, Dan Heppell, Graeme Hutton, Martyn Hutton (c), Shay Lowery, Jonny Pape (c), Josh Schollick, Owen Shield, Max Smith, Eddie Tretheway, Joe Tretheway, Shaun Taylor, Adam Telfer, and Spencer Tolley.
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