Saints U16s had to show huge character to twice come from behind to win the County Shield Final. The first half of the game was a closely fought affair with the much bigger Newquay pack throwing everything at a well organised Sainrs defence. Newquay themselves defended well as Saints counter rucked superbly. During the first half Saints conceded 2 penalties inside their own half and Newquay took advantage kicking both to establish a 6- 0 half time lead.
Saints changed their tactics at half time and began to gain the upper hand. Ten minutes into the half Saints pressure told when an excellent spell of Saints play was rewarded with a well taken try by winger James Housman. 6 - 5. Saints continued to play offloading rugby and the Newquay pack very visibly tiring in the heat. An excellent run by centre Jack Oulton and a superb offload to outside centre Harry Johnson allowed Saints to establish a 6-12 lead. (George Brooks converting).
Unfotunately after Oulton had offloaded the ball for the try a second Newquay player had 'followed up' on Oulton as he got to his feet and when Oulton remonstrated with the officials he was yellow carded.
Seeing that Saints were now down to 14, Newquay found new life and belief. And with 8 minutes of the sin bin gone Newquay's scrum half darted through and Newquay were now 13 - 12 ahead.
Saints with 15 players on the field attacked Newquay with renewed energy. Newquay to their credit defended eell and it took a moment of creativity George Brooks who deftly chipped the ball to winger Jake Williamson whoin turn raced to the corner to win the game for the Saints.