Rugby union: Bishop Heber High School edge closer to Twickenham after ...

A RUGBY team from Bishop Heber High School is one victory away from running out on the hallowed turf of Twickenham.

The Malpas school’s under 15s team has reached the semi-final stages of the Daily Mail RBS Cup, a national competition which started back in September.

They defeated St Paul’s School of Barnes, London, last Thursday, winning 17-3 at home to progress through to the last four.

The semi-finals will all take place at Broadstreet RFC on Saturday, March 9, with the two winners going through to the final at Twickenham – the home of English rugby – in London on Saturday, March 23.

Headteacher David Curry , whose twin sons Ben and Tom play for the team, said: “This is a historic achievement for the whole squad. The U15 team has developed immeasurably and beyond all expectations since the first round against Ellesmere College.

“To be the headteacher, coach and parent makes their achievement that bit more special. I’m so proud to be a part of what they have achieved – it’s quite amazing.”

A large crowd of pupils, teachers and parents turned out to watch last Thursday’s quarter-final victory.

St Paul’s took an early 3-0 lead through a penalty but the hosts fought back in the second half. Tom Curry scored in the corner, with brother Ben converting.

A penalty from Ben Curry made it 10-3 and the victory was secured when scrum-half Joe Mullock charged down a clearance kick, allowing the excellent Nick Dodd to score under the posts. Ben Curry converted to send the home crowd into raptures.

Headteacher Mr Curry added: “It was one of the most amazing games of rugby I’ve ever witnessed. I am in no doubt that the crowd of home supporters gave the team the motivation to record such an impressive victory.”

Mr Curry said that PE teacher Noel Speed has been ‘instrumental’ in the team’s success.

Bishop Heber have been the only state school left in the competition for the past three rounds.

They will be joined in the semi-final draw by Bromsgrove School and the winners of the London Oratory School v QEGS (Wakefield) and Warwick School v Wellington College ties.

Rugby union: Bishop Heber High School edge closer to Twickenham after ...