NESTLE Rowntree secured the Merit League runners-up spot with a 52-20 victory over Old Modernians in their final league match of the season.

Mods took the lead with a penalty after 10 minutes, but Trees responded when the forwards drove to the line and hooker Jack Gabbatiss crashed over. He then scored again to give Trees a 10-3 lead after half an hour.

Right on the half-time whistle, a quick break from full back Nick Thompson was halted, but Gabbatiss was on hand to dart over and Jack Daniels converted.

The second half saw Mods pull a try back, but Trees soon added the bonus point when Dave Harder raced in with Daniels converting.

Back came Mods to score a converted try before Trees full back Thompson readdressed the balance, followed by a debut try from winger Owen Harrison – both converted by Daniels.

Mods hit back with another try but Trees prop Dan Cairns crashed over before debutant winger Bryant Faulkner scored after only been on the field for 15 minutes. Jack Daniels converted both to give him 100 points for the season as Trees won 52-20.