Narwan Eels again showcased their skills on the rugby field, outclassing Sydney side Wombats in Saturday's final to claim the Imperial Hotel Rugby Knockout Carnival men's spoils for the second time in three years.
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Two years ago the league boys prevailed over then-reigning New England champions St Albert's College in an extra-time thriller.
After being played as 7's for the past two years, this year saw the annual pre-season tournament hosted by the Armidale Blues Rugby & Netball Club revert back to a 10s format for the men.
The event also featured a women's 7s and junior 7s competition, and drew teams from as far afield as Sydney and Queensland.
Blues president Anthony McMillan said it was a "fantastic day" despite a few late withdrawals with nine men's, six women's and three junior teams suiting up.
University of Southern Queensland took the honours in the juniors while Inverell avenged for last year's loss to USQ with victory over the Queenslanders the women's final.
It followed on from a runner-up finish in their home tournament the previous weekend, and like the Eels was their second triumph in three years.
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McMillan said it was great to have the Wombats and Blacktown, who beat the host club in the Plate final, make the trip, adding that both had indicated they are keen to come back.
"Blacktown and Forest (Wombats) said they'll be back and they're going to spread the word and see how many Subbies teams they can get up here," he said.
It was the first time the Wombats have played in the tournament for six or seven years, and they didn't just make an impression on the field.
After noticing the Soldier On emblem on the Blues' jerseys and learning about the organisation, McMillan said they generously donated $300 of their winnings.