The Gordon Highlanders have won the 2020 George Tooke Shield after defeating the Bungendore Tigers 24-10 at Mick Sherd Oval on Saturday.
In what was an exciting grand final, the Highlanders held off a strong Tigers outfit to claim the win.
The Tigers got off to a good start and gained an early repeat set, but made an error off the kick. The Highlanders then received a penalty, giving them good field position.
Gordon hooker Angus Marshall capitalised and burst through the Tigers defence, scoring under the posts for the opening try. Five-eighth Scott Boughton kicked the conversion to give his side a 6-0 lead.
The Highlanders had a few attacking sets and a couple of chances to extend their lead but the Tigers defence denied them. Gordon went into the first quarter break leading 6-0.
Both sides battled for field position in the second quarter, with some solid defence from the two sides.
Gordon winger Joshua Cohen scored the next try for his side, crossing the line after some slick passes. Boughton added the two points, bringing the score to 12-0.
The game was delayed just before half-time after a serious leg injury to Bungendore captain Alexander Rodham, who left the field in an ambulance.
Bungendore came out firing after the break, with prop Bradley Laurent scoring the Tigers first try. Five-eighth Robert Sheffield kicked the conversion, closing the gap to 12-6.
Gordon hit straight back a minute later, with centre Max Flack scoring in the corner. Boughton missed the sideline conversion, with the Highlanders maintaining a 16-6 lead.
The Tigers were next to cross the tryline, with centre Thomas Warner fighting his way over for a try. Sheffield was unable to add the two points, with the score at 16-10.
Gordon were awarded a penalty, and Boughton kicked the goal to extend the visitors lead to 18-10.
A great offload by Isaac Lanham allowed his forwards partner Kalib Simon to crash over the tryline with two minutes to go. Boughton added the two points, with the Highlanders winning 24-10.
