Isle of Wight RFC reclaimed the Lockdown Cup with a dramatic victory over Alton in their final home game of the season.
In their final outing of the campaign, the home side came out on top after an exciting and hard-fought tussle, overturning a half-time deficit to secure the silverware.
Playing into a strong breeze in the 1st half, Isle of Wight were backed by a large crowd in spring sunshine. Despite early pressure, a turnover inside the Alton 22 allowed the visitors to break away and open the scoring.
The hosts settled well, with structured play and direct carries giving them an edge, although Alton’s backs looked sharp whenever space opened up.
On 20 minutes, Isle of Wight got on the board. A powerful run from Ben Sanderson set the platform for George Huish to finish out wide. Soon after, a superb move from deep — involving Aaron Young, Huish and captain Luke Blackman — ended with Sanderson crashing over. Huish converted to edge the hosts ahead.
Tensions boiled over shortly afterwards, with Blackman and an Alton player both sin-binned. The extra space suited the visitors, who regained the lead before capitalising on an interception to extend their advantage before the break.
Half time: Isle of Wight 12-21 Alton
With the wind in their favour, Rangers started the 2nd half strongly. A quick tap penalty from Blackman allowed Huish to cross and reduce the deficit.
Momentum swung firmly towards the Islanders, and sustained pressure resulted in Sanderson powering over for his 2nd try. Huish added the extras to put his side back in front at 24-21.
The home side dominated this spell, with Ben Savill outstanding at number 8 and the scrum gaining ascendancy. Huish then completed his hat-trick to stretch the lead, although Alton responded quickly to keep the game finely balanced.
The decisive moment came when Huish powered over for his 4th try following excellent build-up play involving Blackman, Ryan Tulloch and Ben Hart. His conversion brought his personal tally to 28 points.
Alton hit back once more to close the gap to 5 points, setting up a tense finish. However, resolute defending — including crucial tackles from Huish and Fin Vickers — ensured Isle of Wight held firm until the final whistle.
Isle of Wight 38-33 Alton
Isle of Wight: Huish, Southgate, Marsh, Sanderson, Young, L Blackman, Vickers, Newnham, McQueen, Thorne, Blackburn, D Bishop, Webster, Wynyard-Wright, Savill Replacements: Butler, Hart, Tulloch.
Victory sees Isle of Wight finish above Alton, with a 4th-place finish likely once all fixtures are completed.
Isle of Wight RFC next host the Wight Wolves ladies touch tournament on Saturday 25th April (13:00), before holding their AGM and awards evening on Saturday 9th May.
