Hereford Cathedral 12 pts King Edward's Aston 9

HEREFORD Cathedral claimed the North Midlands Schools Under-16 Cup for the first time with a superb defensive performance against a powerful King Edward's at Ledbury Rugby Club.

In a classic match, the powerful King Edward's pack dominated possession, but the swift, inventive Cathedral backline looking dangerous every time they got limited ball.

The visitors from Aston took an early lead when Cathedral conceded a penalty in front of the posts, with centre James Lewis earning a yellow card in the process.

In spite of their numerical advantage, King Edward's could only extend their lead with a second penalty after Cathedral were back at full strength.

Cathedral hit back to reduce the deficit to a single point with an excellent move involving backs and forwards, Will Croke finishing off with an unconverted corner try.

King Edward's used the rolling maul effectively but were continually thwarted by stout defence.

Cathedral scrum-half Rob Lewis set up what proved to be the winning score with a superb break from deep inside his own half, outpacing the covering defence before feeding his twin brother James who raced in under the posts.

Perry Pudge added the extra points and although Aston made a desperate attempt to salvage the game, they could only land a third penalty.