The Great Britain U17 Contact programme defeated Spain 32-23 on Sunday in an international friendly at Ciudad Deportiva, Calatayud.
A dominant rushing performance from Great Britain’s backfield and offensive line powered the young Lions to victory, as Didi Georgiou collected two touchdowns on the ground, with Henry Burfield adding another in the second half.
Defensive back Michail Nastoulis recorded a touchdown of his own, returning a first-quarter interception 30 yards for a score.
In a contest plagued by fumbles on both sides it was Great Britain who ultimately came away on top, with steady quarterback performances from Oliver Smithson and Ewan Doig, resilient tackling throughout the defensive unit, and a perfect day of kicking from Malachy McMahon (three out of three extra points and a 29-yard field goal).
On the defensive side, Great Britain tormented the Spanish ball-carriers throughout the game as Jayden Anakwe and Ryan Crooks forced fumbles, while Jaidev Radia, Ivor Lewis and Jake Marriott all pounced to recover loose footballs themselves.
Adding to the performances of Georgiou and Burfield, McMahon, Gabriel Butler-Clarke and Matteo Negro all shone on offense as the Lions put together lengthy drives in the Spanish sun.
Reflecting on the November friendly, Great Britain head coach Mike Davies praised the work put in by both his players and coaches.
Davies commented: “It’s fantastic to get the win, but it’s the journey to get there that really means the most.”
“Everyone has worked so hard to get here, and the experience of it all is one that will last with them for life.
“Games like this are always difficult to prepare for, given that Spain are such an unknown quantity. Leading up the game we had to just make sure that we were fundamentally sound, and were confident in our game plan. Every player and coach was bought into that.”
Looking ahead, Great Britain prepare for a new cycle as players graduate and new Lions join the fold. After a short break, Davies already has his sights set on new opponents, new targets, and a refreshed roster.
“In the short term, I think I need a lie down,” he said.
“But who knows what the future holds. We are due to announce our trials for the next cycle, coming up shortly, and we are already in discussions for new opponents in 2025.”
