DESPITE an excellent performance at Twickenham, Dauntsey’s 1st XV missed out on winning the U18 Schools National Vase Trophy following a 43-25 defeat to Samuel Whitbread Academy.

Both sides demonstrated huge determination, with each team taking the lead three times through the course of the game.

Samuel Whitbread led 21-13 at half-time, but Dauntsey’s fought back to trail by just one point after a stunning try and conversion.

Dauntsey’s then took the lead at 25-21 and controlled the play for long periods of the second half. However, with the clock ticking down, Samuel Whitbread wrestled back the initiative and scored three tries in quick succession to take the win.

Marcus Olsen, director of sport at Dauntsey’s said: “I am hugely proud of the players. Each and every one of them put their heart and soul into the match.

“Congratulations to Samuel Whitbread and thanks to all the parents and well wishers who came to cheer on both teams. It made for an inspirational day at the home of English rugby for these young players.”