Luxembourg’s U18 7s, pictured, finished fourteenth in the elite European Rugby Sevens Championship Luxembourg Rugby Federation

Luxembourg’s U18 7s, pictured, finished fourteenth in the elite European Rugby Sevens Championship Luxembourg Rugby Federation

The performance from 9-10 September, in Heidelberg, Germany, places Luxembourg among Europe’s top 14 teams for this age group and ensures their goal of returning to this tough tournament in future.

Luxembourg played in the same pool as hosts Germany, Ireland and Georgia. Day one started badly as Luxembourg lost the first three matches (Germany Luxembourg, 29-14, Ireland Luxembourg, 54-5, Georgia Luxembourg, 40-19).

Despite ceding 21-5 against Italy in day two, they bounced back for the half final against Israel securing their first win, 26-19.

The final for the shield against Poland saw Luxembourg cede 26-7.

Ireland won the championship for the second time in a row, with Georgia finishing seventh, Italy ninth and Germany tenth.

Coach Alexandre Benedetti said: “It was a sporting performance in line with our objectives despite numerous failures, rugby sevens must be given more of a focus among clubs so that our players can practice more regularly.”