The boys Year Nine side from Bolton School were the toast of the town after a thrilling 22-20 success over St Helen’s Haydock High.

The sides met in a recent Carnegie Champion Schools encounter with the underdogs from Lancashire stunning their more illustrious opponents.

It is the first time a team from Bolton has entered the huge schools Rugby League tournament and the side had several players to thank for their win, especially captain Chris Brownlow.

Despite trailing 10-0 after just eight minutes Bolton showed great character in fighting back to lead 16-10 at half time, although the real drama didn’t come until the final minutes when Brownlow slotted over a penalty just four minutes from time to earn a sensational 22-20 win.

“What an absolute thriller of a game,” said Community RL Coach John Duffy.

“The commitment and determination shown by all the squad was breath taking.

“There are some very talented boys in this group and to stick to a game plan at any level for a full game is very difficult.

“However, this squad breathes discipline and composure and are a dream to coach. Credit must go to the boys and their school.”