Newcastle are the 2008 ARUK Northern Division Champions, having defeated Middlesbrough in the Grand Final on Saturday.
Played at the Novocastrians Rugby Club in Newcastle, the Centurions proved too strong for the Hawks, running out winners 11.15 (81) to 4.13 (37).
Newcastle were rocked early by injury to key on-baller and captain Matt Bradford, but steadied the ship with 3 goals apiece from Rich Mitchell and Ben Merrett. A further two goals were added by best on ground Michael Shackleton, whose telling influence around the ground was crucial in deciding the outcome.
Middlesbrough battled hard but were unable to overcome the loss of star player and talisman Ben Hansen. Nevertheless the game was played in great spirit and a big thank you to Scott Hind from the Hartlepool Dockers for umpiring the match.
The Grand Final was followed by the league's presentation night, with the following awards being presented:
2008 Legend – Adam Ballard, Durham Swans
2008 Golden Boot – Simon Greetham, Newcastle Centurions
2008 Best & Fairest – Matt Bradford, Newcastle Centurions
Appreciation plaques were also presented to club stalwarts Ben Hansen (Middlesborough), Rick Shrowder (Newcastle), Adam Ballard (Durham) and Scott Hind (Hartlepool).
Plans are now being discussed for the inaugural ARUK National Championship, with the Southampton Titans taking on Newcastle for the right to be declared the ARUK National Champions. Exciting stuff so watch this space!
