THE Rex Club Red Kites retained the Brunton Cup after a hard-fought day of 7s at Stoneyhill on Saturday.

Musselburgh RFC held its 71st annual 7s tournament, and 12 teams entered – with East Lothian representation from Haddington and Preston Lodge, as well as the host club.

Haddington won the day’s opening match against charity side the Bovril Boys, before Burgh put on a show as they demolished Earlston 59-5.

A win over North Berwick saw the Reds book their place in the semi-finals, and Grant Talac’s Burgh joined them with a win over Broughton.

In the other half of the draw, Watsonians opened with a 35-21 win over Preston Lodge, while the Red Kites beat Lasswade 31-14.

Watsonians then beat Portobello to win Pool C, while the Red Kites thrashed Queen Margaret University 57-0 to secure top spot in their section.

The first semi-final was a closely fought battle between county rivals Haddington and Musselburgh, which Burgh edged 17-12 to secure their place in the final, while the impressive Red Kites – an invitational side made up of Edinburgh-based players – beat Watsonians in the other last-four clash.

That ensured a re-run of last year’s final, and the Red Kites ensured they would lift the Brunton Cup again after a superb display, running out 26-12 victors.

Red Kites’ Cammy Gray was named Player of the Tournament to win the Ramsay Smith Cup, while Danny Owenson took the Yorkshire Shield for Best Burgh Player on the day.

Meanwhile, prior to the final, Musselburgh’s U16s played Portobello U16 for the Calum Veitch Memorial Trophy, which was won by the Capital outfit, 19-12.

A match also took place between East Lothian Girls and Leith Vixens, with the home side coming out on top 17-0. Musselburgh RFC officials thanked all those who made the day a success once again this year.