THEY have waited more years than they care to remember to celebrate a premiership win but club supporters made up for lost time after Robertson’s under-18s annexed the Veolia Pennant trophy with a 20-12 win over Warragamba in a thrilling grand final at Community Oval on Sunday.

There was no prouder man than coach Phil Eccelston, who took over the reins when the boys turned out for the club’s under-12s.

“This has been six seasons in the making,” Eccelston said.

“We have bonded together like a family over the years with our manager Di Handley looking after us during that time.

“The win rates among the best moments of my league career and, rest assured, we will be back next year ready to defend our title.”

Captain Matthias Wann was almost drowned out by jubilant teammates as he recalled the enormity of the victory in his post-game speech.

“I’m just proud to be captain, and even when we were down 12-0, I thought we could come back and we did,” he said.

“The great thing about this side is that we are all mates, with most of us going to Moss Vale High, and we knock around together and all have great respect for Phil.”

Amid a throng of elated supporters, club president Grant Pointing had difficulty wiping the smile off his face as he reflected on the club’s first under-18 title since the competition was introduced in 1953.

“They have done the club proud. They are our future and we must do everything we can to retain them,” he said.

For the full story see the Southern Highland News, Wednesday, September 3