By Paul Bolton

England failed to end Wales’ domination of the 18-Group Clubs Four Home Unions Tournament as they went down 29-11 in the title decider at Shawsbridge, home of Cooke & Instonians RC, in Belfast.

It meant they ended runners-up after beating hosts Ireland 15-12 and then Scotland 16-10 (pictured) in their second match before encountering the Welsh.

In the decider, Wales took the initiative with a second minute converted try and never relaxed their grip as they won the competition for a sixth consecutive season.

Two penalties from winger Michael Breen (Winnington Park and Cheshire) either side of the break gave England a glimmer of hope, but slack tackling allowed Wales to seal victory with two more tries. A late try from flanker James Miller (Bath and Somerset) proved of little consolation.

“It was disappointing because we conceded that early try which set us back and we then missed some important tackles in the second half,” said England coach Alan Hughes.

“On the plus side I think that we have a very talented group of players and that will be of benefit to the U19 side next season. But we were outfought and outhought and that may have helped them to realise that they have got to be prepared to battle to beat sides like Wales.”