Scorpions provide sting in tail at North Walsham Sevens
Tony MarcantonioDespite late call-offs, including that of favourites Leicester Tigers, the annual North Walsham Sevens was deemed a great success.That was thanks mainly to the efforts of organiser Tim Malone, who was re-jigging the running order up to and past the 10.Tony Marcantonio
Despite late call-offs, including that of favourites Leicester Tigers, the annual North Walsham Sevens was deemed a great success.
That was thanks mainly to the efforts of organiser Tim Malone, who was re-jigging the running order up to and past the 10.30am kick-off time, and the co-operation of the competing teams.
Despite the dull and extremely cold weather, the rain held off and a large crowd enjoyed eight hours of competition. The call-offs meant that the local clubs competition was integrated into the main one but there was still prize money and a trophy for the winners. Hosts North Walsham entered three sides, the Vikings, Raiders and Warriors, with the senior side making it to the semi- final stage, while the others, while not in contention for honours, just enjoyed the day, particularly when they played each other.
As the day progressed the final contenders took centre stage with Norwich taking the winners' cheque and the George Campbell Shield defeating Wymondham, who did well having arrived with less than a full squad and had to recruit on the day.
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The plate competition was a triumph for Diss who beat a fit and well organised Norwich Medics 31-6 to take the cheque and the Mike Biggs Trophy.
The four unbeaten in the qualification stages - McCallum Scorpions, Norfolk Young Guns, West Suffolk Legends and North Walsham Vikings - made it through to the semi-final shoot out. The Young Guns, a side from Norwich School, showed true sevens skills before bowing out to the professionals of the Scorpions and in the second semi the Vikings were edged out by the Legends.
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In the final it was the Scorpions who had the edge but they were made to fight all the way before emerging winners 24-10 to take the Jill Hambling Trophy and the winners cheque of �3,000, the Legends pocketing �1000.
The event supported the Help for Heroes campaign anda cheque for �1000 was presented to a representative of the Royal Anglian Regiment.
