A combined Old Albanian U13 & U14 team came within a whisker of winning an international rugby tournament in France.

OAs were the only English team in a line up which included French giants Toulouse, Stade Français and Racing Metro.

Despite subtle age-group law differences they didn’t lose a match all day, getting to the final where they drew 7-7 with a provincial side from the north of France.

Unfortunately they lost 9-8 on try countabck over the course of the day.

Tour manager Chris Butterworth said: “I’m extremely proud of the boys. They played fantastically against tough opponents and improved with every game.

“We did far better than expected and we even had a scout from Racing showing an interest in our players.

“The final was extremely tense and could have gone either way and while we’re gutted not to have got the trophy we definitely left with our heads held high.”