Richmond School's under-16s rugby team just missed lifting the Yorkshire Cup when a late try denied them victory in the final at Doncaster last Saturday.

Richmond dominated the first ten minutes against South Hunsley School and went ahead with a try by captain and England under-16s international Calum Clark. The try was converted by Josh Wooff to make it 7-0, but South Hunsley fought back to lead 8-7 at half-time.

Richmond regained control when a Sam Burton try midway through the second half was converted by Wooff to make it 14-8. But they just lost out in the dying minutes when their opponents scored a converted try to win 20-14.

Richmond's man of the match was Wayne Taylor and PE teacher and team coach Martin Burgess said: "I'm very proud of them, they did very well. We had chances to win, but so did they. It was a very close game."

The team's successful season has included resounding victories against schools from South Yorkshire and Wetherby in the Yorkshire Cup as well as a hard-fought victory against Ermysteds School, from Skipton, in the semi-finals.

The players have worked hard, improving their fitness with sessions at Bishop Auckland Boxing Club. The squad are also grateful to England and Newcastle Falcons star Matthew Tait, who has helped the side raise funds for a new kit, which has been supplied and sponsored by Armstrong UK, based in Darlington.

Mr Burgess said: "The players have huge admiration for Matthew and for what he has achieved at such a young age. He is a fantastic role model for our boys and we are extremely grateful for his support."

The success of the side has been based on a 22-man effort. All of the players named in the squad have played an important role in the success of the team over the last five years.

PE teacher Richard Meacher was vital to the development of the players, especially during their first three years at Richmond School, while physiotherapist Barry Mollaghan of Darlington Sports Injuries Clinic has also volunteered to treat players and travelled with the team to the final.

Last year the team won the Cleveland County Cup and they are in the final again after winning their semi-final this week.

Squad: Graeme Curtis, Wayne Taylor, Michael Blackburn, Cai Dennis, Rob Wortley, Michael Cunnachie, Calum Clark (captain), Sam Burton, Liam Spink, Karl Latcham, Simon Raw, Kieran O'Conner, Josh Wooff, Dean McDermid, Jamie King, David Addison, Tony Bramley, Dave Pearson, Matthew Hodgson, Jonathan Black, Ben Dakin, Martin Brown.