The Monks played the strongest of the teams in the first round, Tewkesbury RFC. With a hard fought 1-1 draw the squad of Joe Beardsmore, Mark Goodway, Freddy, Mike R, Paul Conway, Jamie Muir, Robert Buckley, Tom and Russ was required to play back to back matches in gruesome high temperatures. Battling on they took further forward strides by brushing past Gloucester City finalists "love to Ruck" with a score of 4 - 2 and with the Round robin almost complete the packed Shed was treated to a scintillating last minute try by Freddy which helped to complete the beating of "Cruising for a Bruising" 6 - 2. The Monks had made it to the final and would star in the half time show.
As the first half of the Ireland v Baa Baas drew to a close nerves were stretched to breaking point. The experienced Fujian Freddy reminiscing that "this makes me feel young again". It seems that it is both Elephants and Fijians that never forget. At half time the teams were announced and play began, early tries were given away with the nerves causing problems in the Monk's defence. The aggression and power of Tewkesbury was paying off and Malmesbury were two tries behind with less than 5 minutes remaining. A superb breakaway try by Jamie Muir eased the nerves and brought parity within touching distance.
After an immature celebration in front of the shed, the game recommenced with the monks playing some sublime touch. However despite repeated attacks on the Tewksbury's try line the Monks couldn't quite cross the whitewash. Time was fast running out, last play was called with Malmesbury in possession. A long pass across the pitch by Rob followed by a switch by Jos and Paul left one final pass to put Freddie through a gap in the defence. With the years now fully rolled back and an irresistible side step he raced home to tie the scores. The final whistle blew with applause still ringing in Malmesbury's ears.
With limited time to play and with the Barbarians and Ireland re-entering the field of play, Malmesbury were declared winners on try difference from the earlier rounds. Malmesbury Touch Rugby champions at Kingsholm!
