Heartbreak in national final but pride shines through for Northampton School for Boys rugby squad
A Northampton school’s director of rugby expressed pride at his team’s efforts despite losing out in the final of a prestigious national rugby competition.
Northampton School for Boys’ Phil Beaumont watched on from the sidelines as his charges went down 32-26 to Whitgift School from Croydon in the Continental Tyres Schools U15 Cup final at Trailfinders Sports Club.
Northampton found themselves trailing 10-0 during the first half due to a Whitgift penalty and try but fought back to within three after being awarded a penalty try. However, the Midlands outfit conceded again just before half time to trail 15-7 at the break.
Northampton continued to fight and responded to Whitgift’s three second half tries with a trio of scores of their own through Harry Spooner, Charlie Brazier, and Roberto Rinon. But they ultimately missed out in the showpiece after falling just six points short.
Beaumont said: “When we started to play our game in the second half we put Whitgift under a lot of pressure and showed the ability and quality the boys have. Five minutes more on the clock and momentum could have shifted, but that is sport. I’m very proud of their accomplishments and for being part of a final that showcased high quality school rugby.”
The competition pitted schools from all across the country against each other, aiming to increase participation.
As of March 2, the number of Age Grade players is up 6% year on year at 181,453, with a huge 14% increase in girl’s registrations.
Beaumont added: “To achieve what we have achieved as a state school is fantastic. Having state schools in the latter end of these competitions is great as it shows how good the quality is in the state sector. It’s about showcasing the fact that rugby can be played anywhere.”
RFU executive director of rugby development Steve Grainger said: “The Continental Tyres Schools Cup finals are a massive highlight for us; three days of rugby action, first at the Trailfinders then the Allianz.
“It’s a culmination of a huge amount of time, effort, and energy for both the players and for the teachers in schools right across the country.”
The Continental Tyres Schools Cup is a vital part of the age-grade rugby landscape, with schools’ rugby often where players fall in love with the game for the first time. Catch all the latest highlights and updates from the competition by following @CommunityRugby.