A dry and mostly cloudy day for the long drive down through the New Forest and those who made the long trip enjoyed a fantastic tournament.

Alton U15s won their group convincingly with an opening win over much fancied Bournemouth 15-7, then commanding wins over Andover by 45-5 and Lytchett Minster by 40-7. In the Andover game Charlie Hibbert scored a memorable hat-trick of long-range tries, and converted all 3 with the trade mark, single hand drop goal.

In the Cup semi final Alton were up against Dorchester who had already beaten both Tottonians and New Milton in their group games.  Alton proved to be too strong winning by 4 tries to 1. New Milton, the home side, went on to win the Plate.

In the final Alton came up short against a Basingstoke side who were on fire! Basingstoke wanted this one, after recent disappointments in the league this season and were in amazing form in both semi and final to end up as Cup winners. Alton left with their runners up medals feeling good about a hard day's graft on some very firm pitches. Parents and spectators alike enjoyed a great tournament played throughout in a proper rugby spirit.

Well done to Basingstoke for the win and to New Milton for some excellent organisation. Alton will take some good form on tour and hope for even more improvement when Alton host their Junior 7's on 1st May.

A terrific day!

The Alton squad - James Airey, Oli Brench, James Forrest, Joe Gwyther, Will Hamer, Charlie Hibbert, Cameron Lockie, Doug Lowe, Joe Randall, Ed Simmons, Josh Smith