In a nail biting finish, Mittagong won the match 26 points to 24 with a remarkable last minute try to Mark Williams who scored in the corner following a piece of individual brilliance from Ben Garard.

The victory is a major confidence boost to the rest of the season for the Under-18s side, with Goulburn winning the trophy last year.

Mittagong Under-18s coach Randall Laughton said the match was one of the most physical and hard fought junior games he has seen since he began his coaching career many years ago.

Goulburn opened the scoring in the first seven minutes of the match following some strong defence from both teams.

Mittagong hit back with a converted try soon after to level the scores at 6 - all.

Neither side look to take control of the match in the first half until Goulburn scored just before half-time to lead into the break 12 points to eight.

Mittagong hit back after the half time break to lead for the first 15 minutes of the second half, before Goulburn levelled the scores at 18-all.

Mittagong then kicked a penalty goal to lead 20-18 before Goulburn scored another converted try to take the lead 24-20 with just minutes remaining.

Mittagong looked set for another disappointing loss since the inclusion of the Gavin Miller Wizard trophy into the Group 6 competition last year.

Goulburn could have won the game convincingly if not for some brilliant last line defence by Mittagong fullback Danny Parker.

Goulburn continued their attack on the Mittagong try-line in the dying stages of the match until Mittagong pounced on a loose ball against the run of play.

Full story: SHN, Monday, April 24, 2006.