DEC 02, 2024
Calabar High U19s
The curtains came down on the Flash Ship Courier-sponsored U19 National Rugby League High School Championships last Wednesday, with Calabar High School stunning two-time defending champions Cedar Grove Academy in a thrilling 14-10 victory to claim the coveted crown.
Played under wet conditions at Cedar Grove, Calabar surged to an 8-0 halftime lead, thanks to a try by Jahzeel Francis and two goals from Derone Plummer. Early in the second half, Cedar Grove narrowed the gap to 4-8 with a try from Jayden Codner, but Calabar extended their lead to 10-4 when Rajay Kelley successfully converted a penalty kick.
The Cedar Grove Academy U19s
With less than two minutes left in regular time, Ryan Wright powered through to secure another try for Cedar Grove. Nathan Brown displayed remarkable composure under pressure, converting the goal to tie the score at 10-10, sending the contest into sudden-death extra time.
Tevez Tulloch- Finals MVP
Both teams launched relentless attacks in extra time, but it was Calabar's back-row player Tevez Tulloch who sealed the victory, bulldozing his way to a decisive try in the right corner. The win marks Calabar’s third U19 championship title, adding to their triumphs in 2011 and 2017. Tulloch's performance earned him the MVP honor.
Calabar’s head coach, Oshane Edie, expressed his delight at bringing the trophy back to Red Hills Road: “This victory is special for the boys and the entire school community. We’ve worked tirelessly to rebuild the program to a point where we can compete for
championships. Attention to the small details throughout the season made the difference in this closely contested final. Kudos to Cedar Grove for reaching three consecutive finals—it’s a testament to their consistency and strength.”
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