South London Storm won their first silverware of the season on Saturday as they triumphed 12-10 over London Skolars in the plate final at The London Rugby League 9’s Tournament. Tries from Dave Fone, Lee McArthy and Corbyn Thomas-Smith were enough to see the Storm home against their Cooperative Championship League 1 opponents.

South London started the day in inauspicious form, losing their first game to West London Sharks 4-12 with Dave Barrett crossing for Storm's only try.  Their fortunes however were reversed with victories over St Albans Centurions and Bedford Tigers in addition to a controversial draw with London Skolars, which helped see them through to the plate final.

The Storm side played a controlled game throughout the day, retaining possession well and blending the destructive impact of forwards Chris Tabrett and Mark Clune, with the subtle running of Dave Wojciechowicz and Craig Montiero. Confidence and cohesion improved throughout the side as the tournament progressed. Luke Douglas grew into the hooker role and powerful debutant Leon Adegbite was impressive throughout.

Storm faced an improved Bedford side in the semi final, but always looked likely winners, despite the relatively tight 18-12 score line. The pick of the tries came from Adam Tran, once again breaking the line and galloping in from 50 yards.

The final pitted storm against London Skolars, and a chance to settle the draw earlier in the competition. It was a tightly contested affair with Storm coming from behind to clinch victory. After falling behind 4-10 with Fone as the only Storm scorer, the side rallied.  Tries from McArthy and a magnificent individual effort from Thomas-Smith demonstrating strength that belied his stature allowed Storm to grab the win.

The try capped a great day for Thomas-Smith who was voted Storm’s players player and also scooped the winners trophy in the tournaments fastest man competition.

The London 9’s shield was won by Hammersmith Hills Hoists, as they triumphed in the final over Try-Tag Rugby. Next week sees an Easter break for South London Storm as they prepare for their first competitive league fixture of the season at home against St Albans on Saturday April 30^th.

South London Team - Matt Burke 2t (c), Lee McArthy 1t, Dave Fone 3t, Chris Tabrett, Mark Clune 1t, Adam Tran 2t, Chris Beaven, Craig Montiero, Dave Wojciechowicz 2t, Luke Douglas, Leon Adegbite 2t, Corbyn Thomas-Smith 4t, Dave Barrett 1t.