The ESF Lions celebrated the twelfth year of the Tour with a grand slam victory after winning both of their games against challenging sides in Edinburgh.

Inspired after meeting three of the world’s strongest men while training at Kingston Park, the Lions got off to a flying start against Longridge Towers in the first of their two fixtures on their tour to Scotland, running out 87-0 winners.  The game was far more competitive than the score line suggests, with both teams working hard to secure possession on a heavy pitch.  Emmanuel players scored five of the 13 tries and Tom Kell, the tour Vice-Captain, scored 12 points from the kicking tee.

“I was overwhelmed to be chosen as Vice-Captain and was very happy that I could contribute 12 points to our first win!” said Tom.

On the following day the Lions had an opportunity to bond and strengthen their newly-made friendships as they went to the Foxlake Adventures centre and tackled the high ropes course.  Many of the Lions ended up in the water, but the teamwork required on the ropes strengthened the team for a difficult game the following day.

The lads went into their final game with their heads held high after an impressive first win.  In a strongly fought match from both sides, the Lions emerged victorious with a scoreline of 19 -14 against Forrester RFC.  The Lions congratulated the Forrester players on a hard game and both teams stayed behind at the end to receive a photo and to show the true spirit of rugby.

Humbled by a grand slam victory despite only playing together as a team a handful of times, the ESF Lions left Edinburgh with high spirits.  Cameron Mather (11 Peterson) was awarded the Emmanuel ‘Lion of the Tour’ award and said that it was “an honour to be chosen”.

Jordan-Lee Guthrie (12 Greenshields), Tom Kell (11 Peterson) and Filip Tatalovic
 (11 Lloyd)