Eagles strike a blow against League establishment (From Richmond and Twickenham Times)

Eagles strike a blow against League establishment

8:00am Saturday 17th September 2011 in Rugby League By Stuart Amos

Elmbridge Eagles shook up the rugby league hierarchy as they thrashed North Yorkshire Stallions 76-6 to lift the Co-operative Rugby League Conference Regional Grand Final trophy on Sunday.

Scrum half Rick Mee collected the man of the match award with a 28-point haul from two tries and 10 conversions to lead his side to a 14-try romp in Coventry.

Scores from Joe Cripps (3), Mike Coates (2), Adam Kyle (2), Chris Reynolds, Darren Pugsley, James Naldrett (2), Doug Rodman, Sam Gosbell put the gloss on a memorable win.

And Mee believes the triumph strikes a blow for the sport outside of its traditional heartlands in Yorkshire and Lancashire. “I’m really proud of the team. We stuck to our gameplan, stayed composed and the scoreline reflected our performance,” said Mee.

“It’s been a long, hard season. We stuck to our guns and are reaping the rewards.

“It’s an excellent win for the boys and excellent for London rugby league.”