Wanstead under-nines are pictured with the Aviva Premiership Trophy

Under-nines miss out in the Plate final

Wanstead under-nines brought home a well-earned runners-up Plate from their tournament in Southend, competing against some of their largest Essex rivals.

The Herons were drawn in a difficult pool and lost their first match with Westcliffe 10-5.

But they bounced back to beat Brentwood, Romford and Rochford and secure second place and a semi-final spot.

In a close last-four tie with South Woodham Ferrers, most of the game was played within 10 metres of the SWF line.

But Wanstead were thwarted from scoring time and again.

However, following a last-ditch scrum, John Ryan made a crushing tackle and the loose ball was picked up by Harry Turner who powered over the line to seal the victory.

The final was played in difficult conditions and a single try was enough to crown Braintree winners.