YOUTH rugby in York is making giant steps to keep up with the big boys.

The York International 9s competition saw little brother being played out alongside the Fairfax Cup - the Marston Moor Cup.

Young rugby players, both boys and girls, from nine primary schools across York all took part in the competition at Heworth ARLFC's Elm Park Way as part of the two-day festival.

Playing by the adapted rules of tag rugby, where each child wears a pair of brightly coloured tags which if

removed stops the player, the children showed skill and enthusiasm for the game.

The final was fought out by two York teams - St Olave's, who were playing rugby league for the first time, and St Oswald's.

The newcomers put up a brave performance but were overcome by a strong St Oswald's side. The Fairfax Cup and winners' medals were presented by Hull FC stars Steve Craven, Tony Smith and Matt Crowther.

More details and pictures from the Marston Moor Cup competition will feature in our Schools Sport section on Wednesday.

Updated: 10:33 Monday, June 23, 2003