Twickenham success promises a bright future for Warwick

Warwick School under-15 captain Nick Rigby praised the “outstanding” effort of his ‘brothers’ after they retained their NatWest Cup title at Twickenham last Saturday, writes Sophie Freestone.
Oliver Thorneywork crashes over to help Warwick School  Under-15s to a 17-0 NatWest Cup final success.Oliver Thorneywork crashes over to help Warwick School  Under-15s to a 17-0 NatWest Cup final success.
Oliver Thorneywork crashes over to help Warwick School Under-15s to a 17-0 NatWest Cup final success.

Speaking after their 17-0 victory over QEGS Wakefield, Rigby said: “I couldn’t have asked the boys for more; the effort they put in was just outstanding. We call our team a brotherhood because we play as a family and we play for each other.”

Will Tanner crossed twice for Warwick, who led 5-0 at the break, with Oliver Thorneywork also touching down for what he described as a once-in-a-lifetime achievement.

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“It’s a really good feeling to score a try at Twickenham - I’m probably never going to do that again!”

QEGS provided strong opposition for Warwick, particularly in the second half, and Rigby praised the application of his side in grinding out the victory.

“QEGS were really up for it; they weren’t backing down.

“Our boys never stopped trying and that’s all myself and the coaches can ask.”

Coach Tom Pierce admitted it was not a vintage performance from his side but said that showed resilience when it mattered.

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“There were a lot of nerves in our performance, but the boys remained calm under pressure, said Pierce.

“It’s a wonderful achievement for the school and the local area.”

In contrast, Warwick’s under-18s were defeated 53-5 in their final as Dulwich College secured a third consecutive title.

The rampant London side scored eight tries with Warwick’s sole reply coming from James Ainsworth and captain Joe Blake admitted his side had been outplayed.

“Dulwich were absolutely incredible,” said Blake.

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“Playing at Twickenham, I think that’s the dream for many of the guys.

“It’s just a shame that we couldn’t come away with something more.”

Despite the heavy defeat, Warwick’s director of rugby Mark Nasey said the under-18s had no reason to be downhearted.

“The future looks very bright, with 12 of the 1st XV squad returning next season, along with the success of the last two years with the under-15s.”

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