WALES became the first-ever Four Nations champions at under 16s level after beating England Lions 38-18 in Leigh.

The victory left Wales unbeaten at the top of the standings after big wins over Ireland and Scotland earlier this year.

Wales ran in seven tries in a comprehensive win, with Henry Parker’s try and five goals contributing 14 of his side’s points.

It’s the first time that there’s ever been an organised competition for U16s in rugby league and head coach, Paul Berry, was delighted that it was his side who lifted the silverware.

He said: “The lads deserved the win today and I think we’ve been the most consistent team all year in the competition.”

Nathan Davies went over in the fifth minute with Parker converting to hand Wales a dream start.

England soon levelled through Nathaniel Parker’s score, with Jack Bibey converting.

But after that, Wales took control and were 28-6 up at half-time thanks to tries from Joseph Johnson, Jake Nottingham, Parker and Kaden Johnson.

England couldn’t recover from that and were further frustrated after their coach was sent to the stands and Bibey was given a yellow card. Jacob Jones managed a further try during the ten-minute spell when they had a one-player advantage to put the game beyond England’s reach.

But that didn’t stop the home side for attempting a comeback. Tries from Jayden Aaron and Lucas Mulqueeny, both improved by Bibey, brought the score back to 32-18

However Wales sealed their victory seven minutes before the end when Jacob Morris dived in under the sticks and Parker converted.

England overcame Wales at U18 level, winning 32-16, but they’ll need to wait six weeks before knowing if they’re champions.

Their win puts England top of the table with two wins out of three and a points difference of plus 44. Ireland and Scotland meet at the end of October and both are on negative points differences, Ireland on minus 14 and Scotland on minus 28, so a big win is needed by one of those Celtic nations to take the title.

Wales, who are now guaranteed second or third place in the table, scored through Harrison Doe, Alex Banks and Jayden Grey.