Match report Ventnor RFC 1XV v Isle of Wight RFC 1XV 20/10/2018
Ventnor 9 – 7 Isle of Wight.
Derby days mean a lot to both clubs. The game was set to be physical and tough and it didn’t disappoint. There was a great atmosphere at the club with the sun shining upon the large crowd.
The match started out fairly evenly, the Ventnor backs running it up the field with pace and power. Dom Marsh impressed massively on debut, playing out of position on the wing. One of his carries resulting in a penalty which Todd Riches gladly turned into 3 points.
Later on in the first half Ventnor looked to score from a break up the middle, but we’re stopped short and ended up being awarded in a penalty, another 3 points for the home side. Ventnor started out physical and strong in the second half, but a quick turn over of possession and excellent offloading and ball recycling by Isle of Wight led them to gaining a converted try, giving them a one point advantage.
With 3 minutes left Ventnor gained a penalty outwide that was kickable, but with fly-half Riches injured, who was to take the kick? Step up ex-Isle of Wight player, and prop forward Ricky Keyes. He took his time with the strike as the sun was straight into his eyes but it was perfect. Ventnor took the lead 9-7.
With only a few moments left the home side managed to secure possession after the restart and managed to keep the ball until the clock was in the red. After the referees signal, Andy Gough sent the ball out to touch and meant the final score was Ventnor 9-7 Isle of Wight.
AJ Wells Man of the Match – Dom Marsh
Red Funnel Moment of the Match – Andy Teague
Ventnor – Keyes, Jones, Pratt, Teague, Green, Pickard, Edwards, Colson, Clarke, Riches, Dawson, Gough, Hill, Marsh, Babington (C), Savill, Morley, Blake
Ventnor RFC would like to thank the following for sponsoring the match – Hepburn Planning, Keith Fradgley, HRD Auction Rooms, Bob Turner, TJs Gym.
Thanks to Isle of Wight rugby photographer Andrew Cooper Photography
Images from the game will appear in the Autumn 2018 edition of the Ventnor RFC Magazine
Next weekend is Ventnor RFC 1XV are away against Farnborough RFC (27/10/2018)
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