HANLEY Castle High's year 10 boys have been crowned Worcestershire schools' under 15s champions.

They beat hosts Prince Henry's High from Evesham 45-22 in the final having reached the last four in the competition for the previous two years.

Player of the match Euan Lilly starred with four tries and five conversions for a personal haul of 30 points with wing James Hatton, Jazz Whitfield and Elliott Cresswell also diving over.

Their opponents replied with four tries and one conversion in an entertaining clash.

Both teams showed skill, power and determination but Hanley capped a tremendous season with up to 26 players attending training.

After beating The Chase, Dyson Perrins Academy and Prince Henry's in early-season friendlies they defeated last year's finalists Blessed Edward Oldcorne College and Dyson Perrins again in the cup.

The team enjoyed coaching sessions with England under 18s head coach Peter Walton and former pupil Andy Short who now plays for Worcester Warriors.

They also reached the plate semi-final of the prestigious Sibford College invitation sevens before losing narrowly to King Edward's School from Birmingham.

In the county final Hanley led 19-10 at half-time with Rory Withey heading to hospital after injuring his shoulder and George Humphries breaking his finger.

They then extended their advantage in the second period with Lilly playing a starring role.