PEWSEY Vale head coach Mick Haynes reckons his squad’s spirit is among the best he has experienced in his 50-year involvement in the sport after they captured the Dorset & Wilts Two North title on Saturday.

A 22-7 triumph over nearest challengers Avonvale was enough to confirm South West Junior Vase finalists Vale as champions, returning them to Dorset & Wilts One North at the first time of asking after last season’s demotion.

Pewsey have won all 16 league matches this season and have their sights set on completing the perfect campaign with wins in the remaining four fixtures.

Haynes said: “The reality of our success is the players themselves. I have seldom experienced the like in my 50-year involvement in rugby, the team spirit they engender is superb, it is palpable.

“They have been resolute, certainly physical, but most of all, they have played for each other.

“This has turned them into a terrifically effective team at Level 9 and I expect the same next season at the next level up, the challenges of which we are looking forward to."

He added: “It has been an outstanding season. Even with injuries and other unavoidable absences, the strength in depth of the squad has managed to produce the goods.

"Fifteen man rugby is how we aim to play by using power, deft touches of speed and accuracy and great support play. Delivering it game by game has paid off handsomely."