In preparation for the Spanish 9s Championship, which starts on 8 November and will take in Alicante, Madrid, Torrent, Valencia and Albal, the first regional 9s has been held in the country, involving four sides from Valencia.

Torrent Tigers were the surprise winners, defeating favourites CR Alcoià Comtat 10-4 in the final.

Spanish national coach Darren Fisher commented: “Nines is a great opportunity for new players to experience rugby league and a perfect grounding for when the full 13-a-side season starts.

“It will help Spanish rugby league continue to grow, which is something we are all passionate about.”

Spanish referees, who recently participated in the RLEF Match Officials course in Sigulda, Latvia as part of the EU Leadership Devolution Project, officiated for the first time.

Valencia 9s Results

Regular Phase

Alcoià Comtat 8-8 Tigres Torrent
Irreductibles CREM 14-0 Valencian Warriros
Tigres Torrent 14-10 Irreductibles CREM
Valencian Warriors 4-6 Alcoià Comtat

Final Regional de Nines Championship Of Valencian Region

Tigres Torrent 10-4 Alcoià Comtat