School profile - Manchester Grammar

Manchester Grammar School was founded in 1515 by Bishop Hugh Oldham for the purposes of of Godliness and Good Learning. It was originally in the city centre but later moved to its present site in Fallowfield. It has always been the policy to admit all boys who pass the entrance exam.

The school is strong in several sports and its most recent famous son is England cricket captain Mike Atherton. Rugby progressed in the 1990s and the arrival of coach Mark Appleson in 1996 heralded much improved Daily Mail Cup results. Dave Muckalt, the Manchester RFC No 8 and captain arrived this season and the team have moved on to another level, particularly in their forward play which has resulted in their first semi-final appearance on the back of some attractive 15-man rugby.

The squad is a mix of two of the strongest year groups to come through the school and the majority will be available next season. They are led by a quick and skilful No 8 in Ben Murphy while Vican During has been a revelation at blindside. Individual moments of magic from full back Alistair Buchan, an England 18 Group triallist, have lifted them indifficult games. He has scored 19 tries and numerous conversions, penalties and drop goals.

Another player who has stood out is 5th form scrum halfJames Squires, brought in as cover for injuries, and who produced a marvelllous performance in one of the toughest ties at Calday Grange, one of three they have won away from home. The back line is strong, particularly in the centre where they have an England 16 group man in Tom Rowland, but it was the forwards who took the honours in the quarter-final against Leiecester Grammar, when they took on and beat a much stronger pack in difficult decisions, The Cup holders canexpect a major test.

ROUTE TO THE SEMI-FINAL:

3rd rnd Lymm HS (a) won 31-14
4th rnd Arnold (a)won 36-17
5th rnd Calday Grange (a)won 24-13
6th rnd Merchant Taylor's,Crosby (h) won 48-12
qtr-final Leicester GS (h) won 15-3.