ACS(I) A Rugby Final 2008

What a victory it was for the ACS (I) rugby team when it took home the A Division Police Cup. The win was especially sweet for the Year 6s, who made up the bulk of the team. These senior players in the squad last won a schools final in 2004 back when they were in Year 2.

Since then, they have stuck together, trained together and played together with one burning desire - to win the National title again. But for three years, the Cup eluded them.

On May 12, 2008, they marched into the Padang, with a few Year 5 brethren in their team, more determined than ever to bring home the Police Cup. The seniors knew that for them it would be their last shot at the national title.

Led by captain Bryan Wong, they showed this determination in the gusto with which they played the game.

Within two minutes of the game, ACS(I)'s Blandon Tan got himself on the score sheet - converting a penalty.

A tactical drop-goal by St Andrew's Jesse Quek saw the Saints draw level at 3-3.

Shane Gan put ACS(I) in the lead again with a penalty conversion. Score: ACS(I) 6 - SAJC 3.

Just before half-time, Muhammad Khairulanwar stormed through the Saint's defence and touched down for a try. Blandon Tan converted the kick and ACS(I) walked out at half-time leading 13 - 3.

When play resumed, ACS(I) capitalised on a defensive lapse by St Andrew's to score a second try through Alex Chuang. Score: ACS(I) 18 - SAJC 3.

That try stung the Saints into action and a try by their captain, Arthur Lim, saw them close the deficit to 18 - 8.

Blandon Tan's penalty conversion dealt the final blow to the St Andrew's side. His kick took the final score of the game to 21-8.

When the final whistle sounded, there were hugs and tears all round in the ACS(I) camp. ''We finally won!'' the players yelled.

The Year 6s had wanted to end this chapter of their school lives on the right note - and they did.

''I am damn happy cos this is our last year,'' said Blandon Tan.

As the spectators and players streamed off the pitch, ACS(I) coach Adrian Chong, in a reflective mood, said: ''It is a nice farewell for the Year 6s.''

In another match, Anglo-Chinese Junior College beat Raffles Junior College 20 - 0 to take third place.

You can view past entries by scrolling down or by clicking on the archives on the homepage.