THE SUPERIOR fitness levels they get from two hours of daily training saw Loughborough Students tear down tiring Trojans Women in the final of the National Challenge Shield.

In searing Spring heat, the Students, who train as part of their studies, scored three tries in the last ten minutes at Broadstreet to clinch the title 20-12 after Trojans had led throughout an absorbing contest and dominated up front.

An early Sally Greenway converted try gave the Stoneham Lane side the lead which they held at the break, despite an unconverted score from the Students. And, while the forwards continued to hold sway, they believed they could hold on.

The belief was extended when second row Jenny Bethwaite added to their advantage midway through the second half.

But, as Trojans ran out of steam attempting to cling onto their seven-point advantage, Loughborough stoked up their boilers and left them gasping.

Coach Neil Joisce was immensely proud of his charges, especially the front eight who played Loughborough off the park in every department. But he praised all 21 players on the day.

"Their fitness did tell in the end," he mused. "But my girls have done the club proud. They have gone all the way through and played so very well. The pack's performance was the best I have seen from a Trojans side, either boys or girls, in a long time.

"I could not name anyone in that squad of 21 for special praise as they all played amazingly, as they have for much of the season. We have achieved what we set out to do at the start of the year by winning the league.

"This cup run was a fantastic bonus and to win the South section was a great achievement and to get here was superb."

Trojans Ladies are now off to an international tens tournament in Belgium against teams from Europe, America, Canada and the Southern Hemisphere next weekend before a month off to prepare for their assault on National Challenge One. in September.