School rugby
BARNARD Castle School’s 1st XV are preparing for their first National Schools Cup semi-final since 2014.
Barney will take on Kirkham Grammar School, near Preston, today, Friday, with the winner progressing to the final at Twickenham, the home of England rugby.
The school’s 1st XV reached back-to-back Schools Cup finals in 2003 and 2004, followed by a third trip to Twickenham in 2007. It was in 2014 when Barney last appeared at the semi-final stage of the competition.
This season, the team has won nine of its ten matches.
Kirkham Grammar School has had an equally impressive year having only lost once as well, ensuring the clash at Kendal Rugby Club has all the makings for a keenly contested affair. Barney’s squad includes six Newcastle Falcons Academy players, all of whom competed in this season’s Premiership Rugby U18 Academy League.
Martin Pepper, first team head coach, said: “In spite of all the distractions and disruptions brought about by the pandemic, the boys have remained focused and enjoyed an excellent season.
“It was a proud moment for everyone connected with the team and those within our community when we reached the semi-final.
“We are hoping to give another good account of ourselves in what promises to be a tough fixture against equally talented opposition.
The opportunity to play under the lights will be a great experience for the boys, especially those players who are preparing to close out their school rugby careers, and hopefully we will be able to make it another memorable occasion.”
Lee Dickson, former England scrum half and Barnard Castle School’s master in charge of rugby, added: “Having represented Barney in the National Schools Cup final, I know first-hand how incredible an opportunity it is for a 17 or 18-year-old. Reaching Twickenham would be the icing on the cake, in what has been an impressive season.”
