QEGS 1st XV have advanced to the semi-finals of the Continental Tyres National Schools’ Cup following an enthralling 14-12 victory over Ellesmere College.

The match began well before kick-off as parents, staff, and pupils gathered around the QEGS 1st XV pitch to give the team a rousing welcome. That atmosphere carried through the entire match, providing an electrifying backdrop to the action.

In what was always going to be a tight affair under dry but cold conditions, a strong start was essential for both sides—something the 1st XV have occasionally struggled with this season. Lance Barker quickly settled early nerves with a confidently taken penalty to give QEGS a 3-0 lead.

The game ebbed and flowed, with Ellesmere showing plenty of threat on their right-hand side and frequently reaching QEGS’s 22-metre line. That pressure eventually translated into points as Ellesmere scored from a close-range carry to take a 5-3 lead.

The first half remained evenly balanced, with neither team able to fully unleash their attacking potential. The scoreline remained 5-3 at halftime, leaving everything to play for in the second half.

During the break, the QEGS team and coaching staff called for calm and stressed the importance of securing the next score. (Stay tuned for the Behind The Scenes footage with Jacob to find out exactly what was said!)

The second half began with Ellesmere dominating possession and putting the QEGS set-piece under immense pressure. Ironically, it was a QEGS scrum deep inside their own 22 that provided the platform for the hosts’ only try of the game—but what a try it was!

Off the back of the scrum, Barker fed full-back Will Hunter, who executed a dazzling outside arc to beat the Ellesmere defence. Bursting into space, Hunter faced their full-back with options to chip, run, or pass. His choice was sensational—rounding the defender with ease to the roar of the crowd and touching down untouched for a sensational coast-to-coast try. Potentially one of the best tries ever witnessed on the QEGS 1st XV pitch, it had the crowd in raptures.

Check out the try here:

Will’s Try!

While Barker couldn’t convert the try, he soon added a penalty to extend QEGS’s lead to six points with about 15 minutes to play. Ellesmere, undeterred, continued to push forward with their powerful ball carriers and skilful backline, eventually scoring their second try to retake the lead at 12-11.

With the game hanging in the balance, Barker once again demonstrated nerves of steel, calmly slotting a pressure penalty to put QEGS back in front at 14-12.

In the dying moments, Ellesmere earned a penalty and looked to their dominant driving maul to clinch a late victory. But the QEGS defence, outstanding all afternoon, held firm and won a crucial penalty to secure the win. The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations as players and supporters united in scenes of unrestrained joy following a remarkable victory over a highly talented Ellesmere team.

Special credit goes to captain Jack Bailey, who delivered an exemplary 70-minute performance despite battling illness in the build-up to the game. His leadership epitomised the grit and determination displayed by the entire squad.

This victory marks the first U18 National semi-final appearance for QEGS since the 2017-2018 season, and everyone involved should be incredibly proud of their achievement.

A huge thank you to the incredible crowd of pupils, parents, and staff who turned out to support the team. Your energy made all the difference!

Check out all the photos from the game here.