Wellington College took the Festival Tournament in the 2012 Rosslyn Park HSBC National School Sevens in spectacular fashion with an extra-time drop-goal giving them a 17-14 win over Bryanston School.

In a match packed with big hits, gainline-breaking runs and clean breaks, Wellington stormed into the lead with an early converted try to make it 7-0 but Bryanston edged their way back into the match with a spectacular score of their own. A cross-kick was caught by their flyer, who dotted the ball down in the corner. An impressive conversion followed, only for Wellington to re-take the lead just before the break.

Bryanston laid siege on the Wellington line in the second-half, but the eventual champions held them off – until the final play of the game. Bryanston edged their way over in the corner and an impressive touchline conversion took the match into extra-time. With both teams looking to find the golden point, a drop-goal from the Wellington number ten flew over the posts to give the reigning champions their third title in four years.

An understandably delighted director of rugby Kevin Brennan paid tribute to his side saying: “We’re thrilled to bits to win the final after a long two days and the boys are really chuffed. The boys worked really hard to get that result after working hard all day and they have reason to be pleased.

”Bryanston are a really good side and we’ve played them in a few tournaments this year. We’ve been close but haven’t quite got there, but credit to our lads today, as we did enough to get over the line and win the final.”

On hand to present the champions with their trophy was England and London Irish second-row, Nick Kennedy. Kennedy played in the tournament while at school and was impressed with the standard of Sevens on show:

“Credit has to go to Wellington as they did enough to get the win but Bryanston were also outstanding over the two days. It was a superb final and players on both sides can leave the competition with their heads held high. The fact that it went to extra-time also really increased the drama.

“And I’ve also been really impressed by the standard of Sevens on show throughout today. It’s a hugely impressive tournament and I look forward to seeing more action over the next two days.”

Photos by capturetheevent.com