ELLINGHAM and Ringwood's dream season continued as the club's colts edged out Alton 15-8 to reach the Hampshire Plate final.

The youngsters followed in the seniors' footsteps to cap a fine season by reaching a final in style.

Rian Timmins was first to cross the line for the E's, before hooker Josh Cannon piled over to make it 10-0 at the break.

And, despite playing into the wind after the restart, the E's back line held firm until 10 minutes from time when Alton reduced the arrears to 10-5.

A penalty moments later closed the gap to 10-8, but it was left to Cannon to fire the E's into the final after the front row forward intercepted an Alton pass and crashed over in the corner.

E's coach Steve Benson said: "This was a great result and I am so proud of our young colts. This was a difficult match away from home and our young players showed some great character to win their cup final place."

He added: "I was particularly pleased with the performances of our younger forwards, Gareth Chew, James Gwynne, Sam Rix, Sam Stone and Oli Thew, who all showed great character against a strong Alton pack."