A YOUTH player at Kendal Rugby Club has continued his impressive career progression with a first cap for the England under 18 side.

Former Kirkbie Kendal School pupil Will Montgomery continues to see his stock rise as he was handed a start against Scotland on Saturday.

England U18s won 64-0 at Edinburgh's Murrayfield Stadium, scoring 10 tries in an comprehensive victory.

The match, which was due to be played at Stirling County RFC, was played behind-closed-doors so that players could get valuable playing time, with the pitch at Bridgehaugh deemed unplayable after heavy snow.

Having made his way through to the first team at Kendal, Montgomery joined the academy at Premiership side Newcastle Falcons, and currently holds dual registration with the two clubs.

"Will is a player that improves dramatically in a very short period of time and that's what England and Falcons are seeing," said Steve Whitehead, director of rugby at Kendal.

"He obviously puts a tremendous amount of work in and he's a lovely lad. We're extremely proud of him and excited for his future."

Kendal have also confirmed that their new head coach for the 2018/19 campaign Tom Borthwick.

He is himself a former player and Aspatria, Tynedale, Northumberland, Cumbria and England Counties coach.

Tom will lead the senior men's coaching team and be responsible for the season's coaching plan and delivery. He will be supported by Chris Downham for rugby development, Dan Cook and Rob Quarry.