Norfolk Under-18s gave a spirited account of themselves as they lost out in the South East Group final at Buckingham Golf Club.
The eight-man side was beaten 2-6 by eventual champions Hampshire and also went down 3-5 to the combined team of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire.
But there was still a list of positives for the Norfolk squad, who won through to the final by virtue of winning a tri-series against Suffolk and Bedfordshire.
Theo Pudney won both of his matches in the final and also Jack Johnson, Jake Gunby and Liam Caffyn secured a victory each.
Norfolk Under-18s coach Ryan Pudney said: “It was a fantastic effort from the group to put up a really strong showing.
“In particular, in the back nine we were competing quite well in both matches. For a hole here or there, the scores would have been very, very close.
“I’d just like to wish Luis King and Theo the best of luck as they move out of junior golf – and also, although they weren’t present at this fixture, Jake Hurren and Harry Thomas, who played a big part in us getting to the final in the first place.
“Lastly, I want to say ‘well done’ to all the boys on their achievements over the season.”
County Development Officer Sammy Martin was also pleased with the squad’s efforts at Buckingham GC.
She said: “To finish third of 11 counties, my summing up would be: what a massive step forward in our Under-18s development. And we will learn from the experience.
“We should herald personal performances from Theo in conjunction with a team effort that gave everything – the Norfolk lion roared again!”
Norfolk Under-18s: Jack Bennett, Liam Caffyn, Jake Gunby, Jack Johnson, Luis King, Theo Pudney, Louis Raine, Cam Tilly.
Also played in 2026: Luke Gilding, Sully Goddard, Louis Hawes, Louis Smith, Harry Thomas.