Rising Isle of Wight rugby star Rory Taylor kicked the winning penalty in the second international against South Africa under-18s.

The performance gave the former Ryde School student a starting spot at fly half in the third match in Paarl, but the England team just missed out by 44-41, despite scoring seven tries to five.

For the third game, the London Irish Academy player reclaimed his starting berth after making his appearance in the second Test as a replacement.

Taylor contributed nine points in the first two 'tests'.

Isle of Wight County Press: Rory Taylor in England under-18 colours.Rory Taylor in England under-18 colours.

It follows his eye-catching displays at the U18 Six Nations Festival tournament in France earlier this year.

At that time, 18 squad, the fly-half said he was extremely proud to have been selected to wear the white of England for the first time.

“The Six Nations was a great opportunity to get a sense of playing high level rugby. It was a brilliant experience to take forward as I try to develop further as a player,” said Rory.

Rory, who studies at Wellington College, Berkshire — one of the country’s elite rugby-playing colleges — learned the sport on the Island, starting with Vectis RFC at the age of six, before joining London Irish and Ryde School.

READ MORE: Rugby star's early days with Isle of Wight club

A dedicated rugby player through and through, Rory went on to play at U16 level for Hampshire, Ryde School and Vectis.

Rory was also, during his formative years in the sport, selected for the London Irish developing player programme (DPP) U13s — beating off tough competition to be part of the squad, from as early as the age of 12.

“London Irish have helped me massively to train at a high level and push my boundaries, alongside the continued family support I get,” added Rory.

He subsequently progressed through the age groups with the DPP until he earned selection for the U18 Gold Academy — named in the England Academy Player programme — then on to play for the England U18s.

Growing up and well supported by his parents, Rory followed a rigorous training schedule — playing several times a week at school, Monday and Thursday evenings at London Irish and on Sundays with Vectis.

Rory, 17, of Newport Road, Niton, has worked under several influential coaches from a young age.