Two members of the Junior Saints Academy helped England Under-18 to three wins out three to clinch the Five Nations Festival title.
James Grayson, son of former Saints fly half Paul Grayson, started two of England’s three matches, scoring 21 points in the 41-9 victory over Wales in their final match to secure the title.
Elsewhere, hooker Alex Rayment also played his part in England’s success, taking his place on the bench for England’s matches against Ireland and Wales.
Saints Academy Coach Paul Diggin praised Grayson’s contribution during England’s successful campaign.
“They won all three games and James scored 21 points against Wales, so he’s had quite a positive impact on that group of players!”
The opportunity to represent your country is always a special achievement, but Diggin clearly thinks that the experience is also invaluable in terms of developing these young players into stars of the future.
“Mark Hopley and I both believe that the best way these young adults learn is simply by playing rugby, whether it’s at with us at Saints or playing at a representative level.
“It’s good to be in different environments. They will pick up different things and it’s a massive learning experience at that age.
“It was a good experience for them to play with some of the best players in the country and it was a step up from the Under-18s18s league that they play in with Saints.”
Both Grayson and Rayment also took part in last night’s Mobbs Memorial Match at Franklin’s Gardens, helping the Saints to record a well deserved 24-10 victory over an experienced Army side.
Fly half Grayson kicked two conversions in Wednesday night’s game with Rayment also featuring from the bench.
