RUGBY: NSB still on track for a Twickenham final

Former NSB player Jack Spittle, now with Nottingham RFC, is pictured handing over the schools new kit to skipper Connor Tupai and headmaster Richard Bernard

NSB continued on their path to Twickenham by beating Stamford 27-17 in the last 16.

NSB got to Twickenham in 2013, losing to Dulwich, but the Northampton school were triumphant in the NatWest Vase in 2016, beating St Ambrose in the final.

So far in this season’s competition, they have beaten Lawrence Sheriff, Bloxham, St Josephs and Stamford and they remain undefeated in their domestic fixtures against many top schools.

“To be in the last eight again is a tremendous achievement by the boys - and is unheard of for a state school,” said coach Mark Lee.

“As far as our team goes, they are a very brave outfit.

“Their defence has been outstanding all season and we have some real talent in the backs.

“Although a small team size wise, they make up for it with big hearts and the players never take a backward step.”

If NSB can beat The Judd School, they will head to Allianz Park, the home of Saracens, for the semi-final.

Former England fly-half Paul Grayson plays a part in coaching a team which contains several players who have been selected for the Saints Academy.