SILVERWARE proved elusive as Pocklington School took on some of the strongest rugby union schools in the country at the inaugural two-day Under-15s Langley Festival in Norwich.

The East Yorkshire youngsters won both of their games on the opening day, but a 2am fire alarm at their hotel disrupted their start to day two.

Pock’s opening match on day one against Millfield was an epic encounter that went down to the wire.

Swarming defence, direct running and sheer guts and determination saw Pocklington come out eventual winners 5-0.

A school spokesman hailed a “tremendous effort against a previously unbeaten side”.

The second game against Merchiston Castle was a one-sided affair as Pocklington dominated territory and possession to win 29-7.

The team were hit by a string of injuries to key players and then the second day started with the wake-up call in the early hours.

Home side Langley beat Pocklington 20-7 and that was followed by a heart-breaking 7-0 loss to Abingdon, who scored an interception try.

That result left the Pock boys playing for the Vase against Solihull. Despite mountains of possession and territory, the fatigue factor was telling and Pocklington lost 7-5.

The spokesman added: “While they were disappointed not to come away with some silverware, the whole experience has galvanised the side and given them the confidence and belief that they can match the best.”