Wednesday 3rd October saw a terrific occasion at Harlequins’ home ground, The Stoop as Emanuel School played Reigate Grammar School under floodlights.
It was a keenly contested match with some ferocious tackles and played with full commitment from both teams in front of a healthy crowd in Twickenham.
Emanuel were the ones to open the scoring with a Gabriel Orsini penalty, swiftly followed by a well finished try from Dan Pexioto after silky handling from the men in blue.
The battle of attrition continued with several fierce collisions and well-structured defence. Reigate got a penalty of their own just before half time through Will Timmons. Leaving the score at the break Emanuel 8-3 Reigate Grammar School.
The abrasive contest continued in the second half with Emanuel extending their lead to 18-3 before the shoots of a Reigate comeback. Increased pressure and numerous penalties ended in a try by Josh Martin for Reigate. This pressure was sustained but unconverted as Emanuel’s defence held strong.
The last play of the game brought another penalty for Emanuel which Jesse Eynaud converted, leaving the final score at 21-8 in favour of Emanuel School as the two sides persevered until the final whistle. It was a great atmosphere at The Stoop with parents, pupils and staff all adding to the experience.
Full Time: Emanuel 21-8 Reigate Grammar School
Both schools are involved in the Harlequins Partner Schools Programme, which offers bespoke, high quality coaching tailored to the requirements of the school.
The programme currently works with 35 Community Partner Schools delivering a range of personalised and differentiating rugby coaching from all Key Stages to 1st XVs at Independent Schools with already established rugby programmes.
The programme includes numerous benefits for the school alongside the high-quality coaching. For further information about the Harlequins Partner Schools Programme please contact Ed Bowden on ed.bowden@quins.co.uk
