Haverstock School and Park View Academy teams line up after Friday’s match

YOUNGSTERS from a top secondary school in Chalk Farm didn’t need all the excitement of the Six Nations to discover their love for rugby.

Ahead of seeing England dismantle France on Sunday, pupils from Haverstock School had already got to grips with the sport.

On Friday evening an Under-14s side from the school were praised for the “passion and commitment” they displayed during a friendly against Park View Academy from Haringey.

Despite boasting home advantage, Haverstock, who have been benefitting from expert coaching in the form of Hampstead RFC first XV head coach Peter Breen, were narrowly beaten 10-6.

Head of PE at Haverstock, Matthew Rowling, explained how the real winners were the growing number of pupils who are now enjoying the game.

“It was pleasing to see students embracing the core values of rugby, including discipline, whilst participating in competitive sport and respecting all decisions made by the referee,” he said.

“Our students have been working hard to develop their skills and knowledge in rugby since the introduction of the after-school programme in September.

“In the space of five months, the programme has grown from eight students to now averaging 30 students every session.”