Ardvreck School showcased resilience, skill, and passion in what was a truly fantastic day. Each game was hard-fought, full of learning moments, and displayed the grit and spirit of the Ardvreck squad. Congratulations to every player, supporter, and coach involved for making it a wonderful spectacle of rugby. A summary of Ardvreck's games throughout the day:

Pool Match 1: Ardvreck 0 vs Dollar Academy 42

The day began for the hosts with a challenging match against Dollar Academy, a team with a clear physical advantage. Despite the size mismatch, Ardvreck showed incredible determination in defence. Gus epitomised the feisty and fantastic spirit of an Ardvreckian, never backing down from a tackle and putting his body on the line for the team. Oli and Patrick made some thrilling runs, breaking through Dollar’s lines and securing territory for Ardvreck, but unfortunately, they couldn’t convert those efforts into points. Although the result was not in our favour, Ardvreck’s spirit and relentless attitude set a great tone for the rest of the tournament.

Pool Match 2: Ardvreck 12 vs St Mary’s 31

A back-and-forth battle, this game showcased Ardvreck’s creativity and teamwork. Oli scored a fantastic try, capping off a superb team effort. It began with a beautiful chip and chase in the middle of the pitch by Gus, which scrambled the opposition’s defence. A second try for the home team followed shortly after. The forward pack, headed by Patrick worked hard to secure possession. Jac was lightning quick at scrum half to ensure fast ball. Then the ever present running threat of Archie W exposed the St Mary’s defence, giving the backs time and space to work the ball through the hands brilliantly to set up Oli for his second of the match. Ardvreck edged the game on the scoreboard at half-time but the run of play was still very much in the balance. This tipped towards St Mary’s in the second half as they applied pressure with well worked kick-off routines. Ardvreck continued to fight valiantly with Johnnie and George competing well at the breakdown to try and turnover possession. Despite having some success, the home side simply did not have enough of the ball in the second to work with. St Mary’s, ultimately edged out Ardvreck, but the determination and teamwork of those in green and white shone through in this hard-fought game.

Pool Match 3: Ardvreck 21 vs Sedbergh 12

Ardvreck showed camaraderie and adaptability in a thrilling contest against Sedbergh, securing a well-deserved victory in their final pool match of the competition. Gus spotted an opening and charged into space with a clever show and go, much to the delight of the spectators - who had gathered in their numbers to support their beloved Ardvreck. Jasper followed this up with a stunning meandering run that pierced through Sedbergh’s defence. This game displayed some of Ardvreck’s best rugby, with sharp awareness and excellent teamwork leading to a superb victory. Every player contributed, and the team’s hard work and coordination in defence towards the end of the game was rewarded with a strong win. Jac, Cailean and Patrick stood firm in defence, helping to secure a victory for Ardvreck. Finishing third in the initial group stages saw Ardvreck placed into the Charity Competition where they would face off against Lathallan and Gordonstoun in a mini-group stage.

Charity Pool Match 1: Ardvreck 28 vs Lathallan 14

In an intense encounter, both teams traded tries in the first half, battling hard to assert dominance. The second half turned into a test of endurance, and a war of attrition ensued. Spurred on by the incredible home crowd, Ardvreck rose to the challenge. An inspired performance from Jasper helped pull Ardvreck over the line. From a heroic covering tackle on one wing, forcing Lathallan’s player into touch, to a stunning lung-busting run on the opposite side to score an exceptional solo effort. With precision on the restart, Ardvreck then regained possession with a precise kick-off to restart the game and smoothly worked the ball out wide. Great passing between Nairne and Jasper helped to set up an incredible try from Archie, with his trademarked diving finish - which is becoming a familiar sight to those faithful fans in attendance.

Charity Pool Match 2: Ardvreck 12 vs Gordonstoun 5

With two wins from four matches, Ardvreck had the opportunity to reach the final of the Charity Competition. The goal was clear - beat Gordonstoun to secure their place. The previous match between these two, just a few weeks ago, was a gruelling encounter and Ardvreck knew the importance of matching Gordonstoun’s physicality in order to have a chance of reaching the final. The pressure was on the home side and they delivered! George was back to his hard-hitting best, powering through the defence continually to make hard earned metres for his team. Nairne’s sharp work at scrum-half got the ball moving to help Jasper whose perfectly-timed cut inside led to a try under the posts. The team’s defensive work was outstanding, with Archie A making huge tackles that helped turn the tide. Gus continued to orchestrate the attack, keeping his cool and showing playmaking skills reminiscent of Finn Russell. The match ended on a high, with Ardvreck successfully turning over possession and securing the victory, along with a well deserved place in the Charity Competition Final. The boys eagerly awaited results from the other pool matches to determine who they would play.

Charity Competition Final: Ardvreck 7 vs Cargilfield 48

The final against Cargilfield was always set to be a tough match, given Cargilfield’s relentless attacking presence and physicality. Despite falling behind by a few tries early on, Ardvreck kept their heads high and continued to fight with all that they had left at this late stage of the competition. Johnnie made an impactful line break and the wing combination of Cailean and Archie A posed a threat to the team from the capital. The hosts were rewarded for their efforts with a glorious counter attacking try. Nairne’s lovely show-and-go was followed by a perfectly timed pass to Archie W, who ran half the length of the pitch, backed by an encore of roaring Ardvreck fans on the sidelines cheering him all the way. The crowd erupted in jubilation as he scored. The final whistle blew, signalling the end of the match, and the end of a fantastic tournament for the Ardvreck team. The scoreline favoured Cargilfield, who were deserving of their win in the final. But Ardvreck’s efforts, sportsmanship, and resilience were commendable, they played with immense pride and left the field with their heads held high.

A thank you from the coaching team

Thank you to all those who attended the event and for your continued support throughout the season. The Ardvreck Sevens Tournament was a celebration of rugby’s spirit, teamwork, and camaraderie. Every Ardvreck player left it all on the field, delivering moments of skill, resilience, and determination. The players should be immensely proud of their efforts and achievements throughout the tournament, and we congratulate everyone involved for making it a memorable day of rugby.
 

- Mr Moore, Mr Grant & Mr Herbert