Pembrokeshire Schools' Under 11s have proved to be one of the most talented young county squads for a number of years - even with the shortened season.

The squad was split into two sides, one of which was only one game away from playing at the Principality Stadium before the Coronavirus pandemic halted all rugby.

Last summer coaches Andrew Deacon and Ryan Hill, and assistant Daniel Allen selected a squad and worked with the players during pre-season, and almost immediately could see the potential of their group.

They played Ceredigion, Mynydd Mawr, Llanelli and Carmarthen in the local pool before Christmas and made massive improvements before the Cup games started in the New Year.

Kenny Davies, GMG Lead, said: “Andrew, Ryan and Daniel have done a fantastic job working with all the players in the squad this season.

"I was gutted when the call came to call off the season because I know how much hard work and effort had gone into it from coaches, parents and of course the players.

"The first half of the season was a nightmare with weeks of rain and unavailable pitches.

"But I must thank Pembrokeshire rugby clubs for supporting the Under 11s. Haverfordwest, Narberth and Tenby RFC allowed us to train when possible and local WRU referees Martin Rudd and Charlie Watts are always keen to develop junior rugby in our county."

Davies also thanked parents for enduring games and training being called off.

"Picking the teams was a difficult task especially when other sistricts only ran one side  - which didn't give all the players the opportunity to play and test themselves. That was disappointing.

"I have no doubt this very talented squad would of made it to the Principality Stadium given the opportunity and for a county like Pembrokeshire this would have been a major achievement.

"Rugby is only a part of the whole experience the squad gelled immediately and again this was down to the influence of the coaches."

Each player will be presented with a Pembrokeshire Schools' county tie when the time allows.

Under 11s Cup results:

Blaenau Gwent (away) won 35–15.

Islwyn Gwent (away) won 50–0.

Swansea Valley (home) won 30–20.