WOODLANDS School continues to enjoy sporting success after two of its rugby teams were named county champions.

After the Basildon school’s Year 9 side triumphed over New Hall School, it was the Year 8 teams turn as they saw off Tendring Technology College in a thrilling final winning with a last minute try.

Tries from Matt Fuller and Finley Rix-Clancy plus a penalty from Tom Jones helped Woodlands over the line, as they won 13-8.

All three points’ scorers are members of the Elite Player Development, which nurtures aspiring elite athletes to achieve their potential.

And head of elite development Jon Bonnett said it was a great achievement against the odds.

“I am so pleased for the boys as they have worked very hard to get to where they are,” he said. “We were not expected to beat Tendring so to do it in this way is hugely satisfying and everyone can be proud.

“We want this team to improve so we will look to improve the fixture list and refine the skills of all of our teams.

“It is an exciting time to be involved with sport at this school.”

Woodlands were 8-5 up before the scores were tied with a penalty and it was Fuller that crossed the whitewash for the winning score to uproarious scenes.

The school also welcomed Great Britain table tennis star Gavin Rumgay for a training session, as he showed pupils some tricks of the trade.

Bonnett said the interest in the sport is growing and it may be something that could be introduced into the curriculum in the future.

“The children really enjoyed Gavin’s session,” he said. “He may come back in the future and help with sessions but there is a real interest in the sport.”