Sandown & Shanklin RFC 2nd XV returned to league action and looking to get back to winning ways, as they hosted the high-flying Aldershot & Fleet RFC.
The game was a real crowd-pleaser with big tackles, lots of points and the lead changing hands multiple times. The visitors had the better of the 1st half, using their big pack and ball carriers wisely; however, Sandown didn’t panic, knowing their fitness and mobility across the team was starting to take control. 2 tries each, but an added penalty and conversion allowed the visitors to go in at halftime in the lead.
Big carries from all the Sandown forwards and fast phases of play, saw the home side make big in-roads against the visitors’ defence, and made their way up the pitch, putting Aldershot under increasing pressure. Sandown out-scored their opponents 3 tries to one in the second half, to claim a 32 – 24 bonus point victory and climb the league table. Wightfibre, Man-of-the-match was awarded to fullback Matt Cripps, who improves every week and worked tirelessly under the high ball.
Full time: Sandown & Shanklin RFC 32-24 Aldershot & Fleet RFC
Tries: Connor King, Owen Williams, Michael Cooper and Kurtis Whale x2.
Sandown & Shanklin RFC 2nd XV Captain, Michael Cooper, shared his thoughts post-game:
“This was our most complete and pleasing performance of the season and no more than the players deserved. We spoke a lot in the week about the game plan and just enjoying the match. The boys certainly did that today.”
Next week (Saturday 26th November), both the Hurricanes 1st XV and 2nd XV are in action. The 1st XV are away to 4th placed Ellingham & Ringwood. Meanwhile, the 2nd XV are at home, welcoming Chineham RFC to the Fairway Ground.
