Confident Epsom set for final fling

DAILY MAIL UNDER 15 CUP

They have been playing rugby at Epsom College since 1865 but the Surrey school, one of the RFU's first 20 clubs, have never been closer to a cup final at Twickenham.

Epsom's Under 15s, making their debut in the Daily Mail Cup, face Bradford Grammar School in the semi-finals at Castlecroft tomorrow after a rollercoaster journey, which began with comfortable victories but then took in a 7-7 draw at Orleans Park in round six - they went through as the away side - and a 13-12 away win over favourites Millfield in the quarter-finals.

'It has been a great adventure for everyone,' said coach Richard Whiteley, 'and the team is confident we can go one stage further.'

The key will be whether Epsom can match Bradford's powerful pack.

Yarm were among Bradford's early victims this season, but that was only one of three for this gutsy team from Teesside, who have always dug in when the going got on their way to a first semi-final.

But they come up against the school with the best record of all. John Fisher, from Purley, are unbeaten in 22 games and topped the 1,000 point mark when they beat Aylesbury Grammar School 36-5 in the quarter-finals. Full back Daniel Leidecker has scored 33 tries.

THE SEMI-FINAL LINE-UP
Epsom v Bradford
John Fisher v Yarm