Bishop Burton College’s  rugby academy is celebrating its first International cap this week, after 2nd year degree student Anthony Maka made his debut for England against the Portuguse National side in this year’s student International series.

Maka, who has been in prolific form for Bishop Burton College this season made it through two national trials held at Bath in January to secure a place in the final 26-man squad

The success for Bishop Burton doesn't end there however, with even more success during the recruitment campaign as colleagues Will Robinson and Joe Martin, also both 2nd year degree students studying Sports Coaching, Development and Fitness, made it a trio of trialists, a feat only surpassed in the Northern region by Durham University.

Robinson made the final trial and onto the standby list. 

Steve Coldwell, England Students Manager was impressed with Anthony’s performance against Portugal.

"I am delighted for Anthony and for Bishop Burton College,” he said.  “He is a very talented player and made a massive impact when he came on against Portugal at the weekend. 

“His explosive style of play helped reignite our attack and he also made two crucial turnovers to put us back in the game.  Although we did not get the result we wanted, it is significant that England Students can compete with IRB Ranked opposition and will move on to our remaining two fixtures with masses of confidence."