Grass roots rugby - players dream venue
Rugby at the grass roots; players at the venue most only dream about and fans having a grand day out.
Saturday 10 May 2008
EDF JUNIOR VASE FINAL: Twickenham
CASTLEFORD RUFC 14 v DONCASTER PHOENIX 11
In the blazing cauldron of Twickenham stadium Cas wisely used all 22 of the squad to good effect to produce a season-busting win against a very strong Doncaster Phoenix side. The conditions were energy-sapping but 2 flashes of brilliance by Lee Land ignited the strong Cas contingent in the crowd to bring about the 2 tries that were the eventual clincher in a close and compelling final 14 –11.
The final of the EDF Energy Junior Vase at Twickenham is the pinnacle for Union club at this level and the 37-year-old Director Of Rugby, Chris Willett, who also captains the Castleford side, led full-strength squad against Yorkshire Division Three rivals Doncaster Phoenix. It was a day to remember as Chris’s father, Ron Willett (who missed a Wembley Cup Final appearance in his days at with Castleford RL) was there to see his son left the trophy.
Castleford sealed a hard fought victory against Phoenix, who well and truly rose from the ashes of two league defeats against Castleford, with a late try from Man of the Match, Lee Land. Doncaster had the best drilled forward unit that Cas had played against all season and edged a very tough battle for supremacy and half way through the second half looked to be on the way to victory after 3 successive penalties and a try took them in front of Cas who at half time led after a searing wing run from Land. The resolute defence that has characterised the Cas play this year was fully tested as Doncaster strove to make their advantage and growing momentum count. However, Land took advantage of an early ball from a break and tore through the Doncaster defence before turning infield and running almost the full width of the pitch before releasing Jason Dunwell, who managed to ground under the posts. Much to the relief of the 500 plus Cas travelling fans Ian Mattison slotted the conversion with minutes to go.
This was a fitting climax to a successful season that has seen Castleford secure back to back promotions and a place in next year’s Yorkshire 2 league. The supporters, intent on enjoying themselves whatever happened, were jubilant at the end and were treated to good natured speeches afterwards from both Presidents and captains. The hospitality at Twickenham rounded off an extremely enjoyable and unforgettable day.
Stephen Ball - Hon Secretary Castleford RUFC