Anthony Elliott finished off a dramatic 24 hours on Saturday by scoring a try that led Bristol to a British & Irish Cup final victory.
Bristol winger seals cup glory after the birth of his son
Anthony Elliott finished off a dramatic 24 hours on Saturday by scoring a try that led Bristol to a British & Irish Cup final victory.
Just hours after the birth of his second child, the former England Sevens winger was the hero against Bedford at the the Memorial Stadium.
Having dropped partner Abigail and their as yet unnamed son at home, the England Sevens star had headed straight to the final.
And his crucial try on the hour put Bristol in front and ensured they lifted their first silverware since 2004 in the 17-14 win.
Elliott said: "Our little boy was born less than 24 hours ago so it's brilliant - there's just so much emotion at the moment.
"Unfortunately he's 12 hours old so he couldn't join us today. But it gave me a massive edge to get a great result.
"The lads dug in massively - we have played a lot of rugby this year and to get that result is brilliant."
Victory
The victory comes at a fitting time for boss Paul Hull, who is leaving after a 22-year association with the club as player, academy director and head coach and will be replaced by academy manager Liam Middleton.
The cup success has also given Bristol a much-needed boost after an uninspiring Championship season.
Hull said: "The overwhelming feeling is I'm so happy that we won.
"It's been a difficult year but to turn it around in the last few weeks of the season and get some silverware for the players, the board and most importantly the supporters."
Meanwhile, the result meant more heartache for the Blues coming straight from their RFU Championship semi-final defeat to Worcester Warriors.
Still recovering from their injury time defeat, a late try from winger Handre Schmidt was not enough to take the title after three Ed Barnes penalties to James Pritchard's one.
Forwards coach Martin Haynes said: "I can't fault the effort of the players all season.
"But we didn't perform today and if you don't come first you come last."
