A HIGH school girls' rugby union team locked horns with some of the country's best after qualifying for a national finals competition.

Rainford High's under 15s went o London to compete in the tournament with 11 teams from across the country.

And they finished fourth to cap off what has been a remarkable year for the girls, who already won both the Merseyside leg and Lancashire North West legs.

Despite missing out on the chance to play at Twickenham before the army versus navy match, teachers say it has been an amazing journey which also saw the girls get to mix with professionals as they trained at Sale Sharks.

"This was a fantastic achievement for the girls representing our school and region for the first time in the National Competition," said Matthew Halliwell, PE teacher at Rainford High

"We are very proud of what they have achieved."

Head teacher Ian Young added: “I am delighted that the school is supporting women’s rugby union.

“It’s a fantastic achievement to reach any national final. The girls have shown lots of grit and determination but have always played the game in the right spirit.

"They give 100 per cent on the pitch but they always show respect for the officials and their opponents."