Mico University College defeated arch-rivals GC Foster College 22-18 in a thrilling and dramatic Grand Final at Duhaney Park Football Field, to win a record fourth consecutive Inter-collegiate title. Played in front of a large crowd, the Miconians controlled the first half  on the back of powerful running by their big forwards.

However, it was wingers Kemar Ricketts and Devaughn Stewart who scored their tries, while full-back Damone Downer kicked two goals to establish a 12-2 lead at the break; Kareem Harris with a penalty for GC. Mico extended their lead early in the second half when captain Fabion Turner made a scintillating run down the left edge to score. GC Foster responded on the hour, centre Miguel Facey collecting his own chip kick to score and Harris goaling.

Soon after, Mico had second rower Sean Hunt sent off for a high tackle and GC’s took advantage of the extra man when winger Miguel Crowl crossed and Harris narrowed the gap to two points. With six minutes to go, Crowl went in for his second in the right corner as GC Foster led for the first time but, in a sensational twist, Mico skipper Turner’s flat, fast pass found prop Rashaun Lewis and he reached out from the clutches of three desperate defenders for the winning score with barely a minute left.

“This was a tough one, we wanted it more, it meant a lot to defend our legacy and I am happy for the players and school,” said Turner. “The match was a good advertisement Inter-collegiate rugby league and the high standards to which we aspire.”

GC Foster coach Marlando Anderson noted: “It was a good match, evenly contested, we just lost the plot at the end with our defence but it was a gallant effort from the lads and I am very proud of the school.”

In the curtain-raiser, The University Of Technology claimed third place with a 28-22 win over Excelsior Community College.