BUDDING rugby players from three Oxfordshire clubs joined hundreds of children in a national tournament at Saracens’ Allianz Park.

Wallingford, Witney and Abingdon joined six other clubs in taking part in the inaugural Oakman Cup.

Each club was invited to bring two under 7 teams, and one side from their under 8, 9 and 10 age groups.

Wallingford came very close to victory, losing out to Tring in the U7 semi-final.

Coach Guy Wilson said: “I think this is a very important tournament and the second one they’ve played in their early rugby careers.

“It was an excellent day.”

Ian Binnian, president of the minis and juniors at Witney, said: “All 50 of our children had a fantastic day.

“It’s sad not to see any of the Oxfordshire clubs in the finals but it’s all about involvement and having fun at this stage.”

FIVE Magdalen College pupils turned out for Wasps' youth teams.

Finn Pietersen played at fly half for the U18s in their 28-12 win over Bath, while Max Chopping lined up for the U15s against Worcester.

Jamie Whitwell, Tom Chesser and Duncan Knox also represented the Wasps Devleoping Player Programme in a triangular festival held at Merchant Taylors’ School, Northwood.