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Ex-Felsted pupil Malins helps England win U20 World Rugby Championship
Max Malins holds the U20 World Rugby Championship Trophy - Credit: Archant
Max Malins was left struggling to comprehend what had happened after England’s victory over Ireland in the final of the U20 World Rugby Championship.
Max Malins crosses for England's fifth first-half try against South Africa in the U20 World Rugby Championship. Picture: INPHO/RYAN BYRNE - Credit: Archant
Felsted old boy Malins was part of the young England side that ran in six tries in the 45-21 win at the AJ Bell Stadium in Salford to be crowned World Champions.
It finished off a tournament that has just got better and better.
Victory over Italy in the opening game was followed by wins over Scotland, Australia and South Africa.
The fact it followed a disappointing Six Nations campaign where England only won one game just added to the sense of achievement.
Malins said: “It’s overwhelming to say the least and very surreal.
“We put in four great performances before this and then being able to put that last big performance in for the final is massive. I’m really proud of the boys.”
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He felt the togetherness of the team was a key component in lifting the trophy.
“During the camps prior to the tournament we talked about the close relationships between the lads and building them both on and off the field, he said.”
“These three weeks have really brought us together. We’re like a band of brothers and we show that when we go on the pitch. It’s paid dividends in our play.”
Malins still has another year in the U20 fold and is looking forward to defending the title in Georgia next year.
He was keen to pay tribute to those who have helped him get to this stage.
“It’s an awesome feeling,” he added. “Looking at the journey I’ve had, things have fell in my path and I’m very grateful for it. It’s been an amazing year for me and hopefully I can progress next year.
“There’s great things to come. We’ll celebrate this now and really enjoy it.
“Then we’ll look back on the journey we’ve had from that disappointing Six Nations to being the champions here.”
