Market Rasen and Louth sign off with big win against Keyworth
Market Rasen and Louth ended their season with an emphatic win of 99-17 against ninth placed Keyworth.
Rasen had already potentially been pipped at the post to the league title when top of the table University of Nottingham gained five points earlier in the day, gaining automatic promotion.
The five point win against Keyworth still left Rasen in second spot in Midlands Counties 1 North, four points below Nottingham University.
Rasen's total points tally for the season, though, is unlikely to be enough to gain promotion.
Armed with this knowledge before the kick-off Rasen were determined to enjoy their last game of the season and play with pride.
The game produced a try bonanza to record their highest points tally of the season.
The game rounded off a succesful campaign for Rasen, winning 18 out of 22 matches, their best performance in recent years by far.
The squad was praised by head coach Paul Cook, who thanked the players involved for their dedication and hard work throughout the season, but emphasised that the ultimate aim in any sport is to gain title and silverware and to do this Rasen must be mentally prepared for another tough season ahead.
The first team player of the year was centre Marius Berger, with second row Aiden Appleyard taking the young player of the year award.
The Rasen second team also produced a memorable season finishing in second spot in Midlands Counties 3 North, just below Boston, with Will Naylor taking the player of the year accolade.