Kent under-20 rugby team beat Yorkshire in the semi-final of the Jason Leonard National County Championships and will meet Cornwall in the final

Kent Rugby’s under-20 side are through to the final of the National County Championships after defeating the defending champions.

A 34-13 victory over Yorkshire at Charlton Park RFC puts Kent into the final of the competition for the first time ever and a chance to play for the Jason Leonard Cup.

Coach Taff Gwilliam said: “This is a fantastic achievement for these players. Most of them did not know each other when they came together.

“It is a brilliant advert for community rugby in Kent when players from 14 different clubs at different levels can come together and grow as they have to achieve a bit of history for themselves and Kent Rugby.”

He added: “Their families are proud, we are proud, Kent Rugby is proud. We now look forward to taking on another English County powerhouse, Cornwall, in the final.”

The early stages of Sunday’s game saw both sides trying to impose themselves on the other at the breakdown and set-piece. It was reigning champions Yorkshire who were first to score. The boot of Julien Lesczynski accurate following an offside penalty.

Kent replied two minutes later with Westcombe Park’s Ben Fryatt on target as the match officials ensured the offside line was obeyed by both sides. 3-3.

With 23 minutes gone Kent took the lead with another Fryatt penalty for a ruck offence following industrious work from the forwards.

Yorkshire had looked to press the Kent line but sterling defence with the back row of Michael Fankah, Harvey Furneaux and Namir Khalil outstanding in dealing with the large forwards of Yorkshire.

Kent’s solid defence was to be a primary factor in securing victory on the day. The Yorkshire attacks were repulsed and Kent took the game to their illustrious visitors.

Good ball carrying from Will