Shropshire Rugby Player Earns England Cap

Shropshire student Tom Furnival received his first full international cap for the England Under-16 rugby union side. The Ellesmere College pupil, from Market Drayton, met up with the squad for his debut against the Welsh Schools U16.

Head of rugby at the school Alex Murphy said "It's really pleasing to see our young rugby players get the opportunity to represent their country,"

Despite dominating much of the first-half England failed to capitalize on their chances before Wales showed great defence to hold out for the 23-22 victory. England under 16 coach Steve Shortland said "We kept playing and trying to be expansive and we were very, very unlucky. We had many try-scoring opportunities and on another day it might have been our game."

Tom has been a prominent player at the school, where he has represented County, Midlands and Worcester Warriors squads. His latest call-up continues the school's tradition for producing international youth players. Furnival, 16, said ""It was a real thrill to go and play for the England Under 16 side against the Welsh Schools. It was a great experience".