Ventnor II 38 – 12 Eastleigh III
Both teams had full squads eager to make the most of a fixture that had looked in doubt due to the weather and the match was one that both sides enjoyed, played in a terrific atmosphere from start to finish.
At half time the score was 19-12 to Ventnor with tries scored by the effervescent Jake Babington (2) and the bulldozing Gav Davis who knocked over five or six of the Eastleigh defence on his way to a fabulous solo try.
Half time was the point where returning skipper Allan Bridges was able to give the rest of the squad some match time and that faith was rewarded by first-ever tries for James Blake and Tim Ross. Evergreen fullback Warren Riches supplied not only the final try but also all the conversions with typical precision in a swirling gale at Watcombe Bottom.
The watching crowd were treated to a game that was packed full of positive play from both sides who strived to score tries from all over the pitch right from the off. An exciting game where Ventnor’s enthusiasm, drive and some excellent forward work in the mud meant that the home side were rightfully victorious.
Man of the Match was Silas Gregory for some excellent groundwork in the forwards and support work around the park.
AJ Wells Black Dog award went to Nolan Winter.
Pratt, Gregory, Chink, Newberry, Wilson, Marsh, Magnusson, Blake, Marriott, Bridges, Bolton, Davis, Babington, Newman, Riches. Subs: Jacobus, Cripps, Ross, Winter, Trev, Blake
Thank you for Team Sponsors AJ Wells and Wightlink