SEAFORD College U18 XV has swept to victory in the County Cup Rugby Final for the first time in 20 years. 
The team, which took on Beacon Community College in the final, played at Hove Rugby Club, recorded a thrilling 18-5 win, bringing the cup back to the College for the first time since 1993.
It was the second springtime success for Seaford College, near Petworth, where the U16 boys’ hockey team enjoyed a similar victory, beating Hurst in a thrilling final to take win the U16 County Cup.
In a nail-biting finish, Seaford, who were two down went on to a 3-2 win in the final four minutes of the game, putting them in the top 32 teams in the country and qualifying for the regional finals.
The rugby final proved equally thrilling and an early try by captain Lee Reilly put Seaford ahead with the score 5-0 at half time.
In the second half, Seaford started well only to cause an error which led to Beacon running the length of the pitch to 
even the scores to 5-5.
A frustrated Seaford fought back with some excellent forward work and slick hands allowing vice-captain Callum Monks to score under the posts, which he also converted.
The squad had physical challenges throughout the game, with Beacon making some excellent tackles but Seaford dominated the line-outs from the start.
The team’s superior fitness and skills in the later stages of the game led to penalties being awarded with Callum Monks successfully converting them into points, providing Seaford with a commanding 18-5 lead.
Beacon struggled to get past the defensive line and as a result Seaford were crowned the 2013 Sussex RFU U18 County Champions.
Director of Sport Antony Cook said: “The final was played on a dry and fast pitch, allowing quick handling and an expansive attacking style of rugby.
“With Seaford’s U16 and U14 teams reaching the semi finals of their respective Sussex tournaments, it shows the 
strength in depth and the progression made in recent years.”
The College has an upcoming tour to South Africa and intends to use this win as motivation to strive for future success and continue developing their overall rugby and sporting success, according to Mr Cook.
In previous rounds Seaford recorded wins against Angmering (48-15), Collyers (52-0) and Worthing College (29-22).
The success came as a particular thrill for acting headmaster John Green, who takes over as head of the College from September.
John played rugby for England U16s, U19s and U23s and captained England students for three years and played professionally for the Saracens from 1992 – 1997.