Tough-tackling Ambrosians reached the semi-final of NatWest Under-18 Vase with a hard fought 20-0 victory against Kentish rivals Coopers School from Chislehurst.

Their determined play has now set up a semi final in this prestigious competition at the home ground of Premiership Club Saracens on February 27.

The first score came halfway through the first half  when a quick break from the scrum saw Tom Walsh outstrip the defence and score near the centre of the posts for Jacob Daldry to convert

More pressure followed and St Ambrose went 10-0 ahead with a well taken penalty again by Daldry. The Hale Barns side continued to press and missed close range chances before half time. Against the elements the team had to endure early pressure as Coopers tried to get to back into the game.

Midfield defence held strong with Kieran Dunne and Connor Doherty making excellent tackles which were often used in attack thanks to excellent back row support from Ciaran Booth and Ben Hughes.

With improved scrummaging the St Ambrose pack continued to press home territorial advantage and Walsh again was to benefit with a well taken try from close range.

The score gave sufficient breathing space to enable three quarters to run more confidently and good handling gave the side territorial advantage in the latter stages of the game.

The final play saw the Ambrose line out catch and drive from close range, Niall Broderick going over for the final score of the game.

St. Ambrose College Director of Sport Nigel Handy said: “The 20-0 score line was a fair reflection of the sides commitment and discipline, but essentially this was a game won by an excellent defence from which the whole squad can take satisfaction.”

The team now play the winner of Downside or Pangbourne School in a semi final at the Allianz Arena, Saracens home ground on February 27 with a 1pm kick off.