Barking RFC sneaked to victory at the first Heineken 10's rugby festival held at Westcliffe RFC on Saturday 25th April as the Essex club made the most of a last minute entry in to the competition to claim the honours. In the plate competition, Hertford RFC made it a good day by claiming the honours, with a comprehensive victory over Chelmsford RFC.
Alexander Brooker, Barking's Captain, said: "Thanks to all the boys for playing in the Heineken 10's tournament and special thanks to our coach for sticking with us throughout the years. He has been the key to our success. Thanks to Heineken for putting on the event it was a great success with perfect weather and some free flowing rugby played in a wonderful spirit - exactly what the Heineken 10s is all about. "
By winning the first Heineken 10's festival, Barking RFC automatically go into the hat to become eligible for the Heineken legacy donation, which will be awarded to one of the victorious clubs at the completion of all of the Heineken 10's festivals in 2009.
Following a successful inaugural year of the first ever national 10's rugby competition in 2008, the Heineken 10's returns bigger and better in 2009. With 15 tournaments hosted at rugby clubs nationwide between May and September, this is the first ever social rugby tens tournament of its kind. It promises to attract even more amateur rugby players - with over 2500 taking part in 2009.
