Duo win Hampshire call

AFTER two more emerging young rugby players won through Hampshire county trials, Charles McHugh, chairman of the Academy, said Guernsey were enjoying unprecedented success.

Alfie Penney and Josh Dowinton emerged from a three-trial process to win places in the 40-strong county under-14s rugby squad.

One hundred and eighty youngsters started out the under-14 trials in what is one of the largest rugby playing counties in the country. McHugh said that both played with distinction in the five games that took place in the final trial.

Dowinton featured at stand-off and centre. He was busy and involved in several good passages of open, free-flowing rugby.

'Alfie trialled at open-side flanker was also at his best with impressive work in the loose to secure ball for his team,' said McHugh. 'His trademark runs cutting through defences together with his all-round tackling and rucking set him out among a very strong forwards contingent.'