These representative matches (and yesterday was the third round out of four this season) are the culmination of the two year D.P.P. (Developing Player Programme) process which began for these players at Under 14 level.

As well as the five players involved in yesterday’s match, Rockcliff U16’s have had a further four players already capped by Northumberland this season in the earlier rounds; they are Nathan Proctor, Matthew Robinson, Noah Johnson and Jake Parry. One further player, Angus Henry, is also on the programme but has so far not played due to an injury. It is hoped that he will make his debut in the last round of matches later this month at Kingston Park against Sale D.P.P.

Due to the amount of players nominated to the D.P.P. by their clubs the county opted to run two teams at U16 level. All of the Rockcliff lads have played in the same team which is currently unbeaten after three rounds with game against Durham finishing 35-25 in Northumberlands favour.

"I hope this will inspire some of our younger players to try hard and keep on learning..."

Richard Bloomfield - Rockcliff U16s