Old Pats U-13s 24
Cheltenham U-13s 5
IT took four years, many disappointments and even an earlier County Cup final defeat, but Old Patesians finally did it.
Going through the age groups from Under-Tens onwards, Pats had never beaten their greatest rivals.
In fact, nobody had as Cheltenham never lost a game.
Amazingly in their County Cup group games this year, they hadn't even conceded a point.
It all changed yesterday though when in a game of extraordinary intensity, commitment and skill, Pats took control right from the start with a try from flying winger Dan Carpenter.
As they surged forward relentlessly, Pats scored further tries, both from Jake Moriss while Oliver Aherne, son of veteran coach Kevin, added two conversions.
Pats were 19-0 up by half-time and Cheltenham had barely been able to get out of their own half.
It was a more even contest in the second half as Cheltenham tried to fight back, finally scoring in the corner through Josh Pimlott.
The result though never looked in doubt and Pats hit back with a great try from powerhouse number eight Dom Biss, the match finishing 24-5.
The boys from both sides deserve huge credit for a game of a remarkably high standard.
It was Pats' day though. The front row Will Armstrong, Will Mustoe and Spike Mutteen were all strong and courageous throughout, Ed Harvey and Harry Mattock ultra competitive all over the pitch and back row of Harry Marden, Dom Biss and Craig Jones was electric.
The whole pack was fantastic getting the better of much larger opponents.
Behind the scrum Ewan Fenley tackled anything that moved and stopped it moving, Oliver Aherne and Roger Mortimore pulled the strings in midfield, Jake Morris and Dan Carpenter provided pace and points, Max Huysinga tackled bravely and wouldn't be beaten and full back Matt Basnett was rock solid, never dropping a ball in difficult windy conditions.
Pats now look favourites to top their group.
Finally all the boys and parents would like to send very best wishes to Darren Sherborne, generous sponsor of the side. Darren suffered a horrible injury last week and we all wish him a complete and speedy recovery.
