MANAGER Tom Dillon heaped praise on Swanage & Wareham's defensive effort after they had narrowly defeated Trowbridge 25-20 in a thrilling Dorset & Wiltshire Cup final, reports Gareth Davies.

Scrum-half Chris Tomes’ close-range effort three minutes from time proved to be the game's decisive moment for Dillon’s charges who repelled a barrage of Trowbridge pressure either side of the interval to leave the Bestwall chief jubilant.

Dillon told the Daily Echo: “As a squad, the unity of all 22 players was fantastic and we just played basic hard rugby.

"Trowbridge tried to play some decent stuff, but our defence were outstanding and nullified their threats, despite us giving away a few needless penalties.

“I also thought the attitude of the players before, during and after the match was exceptional.

"The squad has really bonded and, with some top effort from our coaching staff, they really play for each other on the pitch.

"That was really evident against Trowbridge with a big defensive effort needed as they spent long spells in our 22.

“Going forward, we were equally as impressive and our big ball carriers Kirk Jones and Joe Desmond were outstanding.

"Jake Warren was excellent again at fly-half with our full-back Karl Barton having a sensational game too.

"Karl was man-of-the-match and he looked assured under the high ball and kicked well also.”

Swans made all the early running in the match played at North Dorset’s Gillingham base and the first try arrived in spectacular fashion on 11 minutes as winger Callum Young jinked his way past three would-be Trowbridge tacklers to touchdown. David Elford failed to add the extras although he did slot over a penalty shortly after to extend Swans’ lead.

Trowbridge crossed for their first try from close range on 26 and, after the ball had been turned over at the subsequent restart, Swans pressed further ahead when flanker Matty Roberts darted over after a neat break from Tomes to open up a 15-5 advantage.

Justin Reid’s converted try early in the second half brought Trowbridge back into contention, but Swans held firm under a barrage of pressure and veteran centre Phil Graves’ try propelled them back into the ascendancy.

Tomes’ score put further daylight between the sides although the last word went to Trowbridge replacement Sean Jones as he crossed from an absorbing final last play.

A first county cup win in nine years confirmed Swans’ entry into the RFU Intermediate Cup with a Twickenham final just three more wins away and Dillon is relishing the prospect of a possible visit to headquarters.

“It would be a massive achievement for the squad and massive for the club too,” he added. “We’ve had lots of good times in the past, although it’s been a long time since we won the Dorset & Wilts final.

"To win it this year, and then be three big performances away from Twickenham would be huge and I believe that we’re capable of getting there without a doubt.”

Swans: Barton, Romanillos, D Elford, Graves, Young, Warren, Tomes, Sheldrake, Elford, Wyburgh, Penney, Collins, Desmond, Roberts, Jones. Replacements: Audley, Smith, Ford, Rayment, Perry, Smith, Spencer.