Jersey Reds boss Harvey Biljon proud after British & Irish Cup final defeat

Jersey conceded crucial tries either side of half-time as Munster A fought back

Jersey Reds head coach Harvey Biljon told his squad he is "proud of their achievements" after their narrow defeat in Friday's British & Irish Cup final.

The Channel Islanders were 18 points up on Munster A in Cork, but the Irish side came back to win by just a point.

"We've got to learn to win those when there's that much on the line," Biljon told BBC Radio Jersey.

"We've built through some difficult times but we all wanted more, and unfortunately we didn't get that."

Biljon added: "Right now they're probably hurting, but I'll make sure they're proud of their achievements."

Jersey were competing in their first final in the competition, having also lost by a single point at the semi-final stage last season.

For a number of players the final was their last match for the club before joining other sides for the 2017-18 campaign.

"It would've been a great way for the boys that are leaving to sign off with silverware," said prop Jake Armstrong.

"It's such a shame that we just couldn't do it for them, and my overriding emotion now is I'm real gutted for those boys that haven't come away with silverware.

"You'd almost rather lose in the semis than lose in the final."

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