Isle of Wight RFC began their Hampshire Counties 3 league season with a narrow 25-19 defeat on the road at Alton on Saturday (4th October).
These two sides were due to meet in the Hampshire Cup final back in 2020, a fixture cancelled due to the pandemic. To mark that missed occasion, the clubs introduced the Lockdown Cup — to be contested each time they face off in future — adding an extra layer of meaning to the season opener.
The home side made the most of a strong wind blowing straight down the pitch, while IW were slow to settle and passive in defence. Alton crossed for three tries and added two penalties to establish a commanding lead.
Half time: Alton 25-0 Isle of Wight
A transformed Island side emerged after the break. With the wind now in their favour and renewed intensity following the half-time team talk, IW began to dominate territory and possession. George Huish sliced through the defence to open the scoring and spark the comeback attempt.
Alton resisted well for much of the half, but the Islanders’ persistence paid off with 12 minutes to play. Sustained pressure and patient phase play saw captain Luke Blackman drive over for the second try, converted by Huish.
From the restart, IW surged forward again with a 40-metre driving effort that earned a penalty. Kicking to the corner, they mounted another relentless attack, and slick handling allowed Huish to cross for his second try — this time adding a superb touchline conversion to narrow the gap to six points.
Despite the late surge, the Islanders were twice held up over the line — most notably when they felt David Blackman had grounded the ball — but the clock ran out before they could complete the comeback. IW claimed a well-deserved losing bonus point, while Alton took the Lockdown Cup along with four league points.
Full time: Alton 25-19 Isle of Wight
Isle of Wight: D Ward, A Young, W Marsh, S McQueen, J Wynyard-Wright, G Huish, F Vickers, L Blackman (capt), D Blackman, B Martin, K Blackburn, J Bishop, K Thorne, G Butler, B Savill, B Hart, H Jones-Evans.
The John Jarvis-sponsored Man of the Match award went to Fin Vickers, who impressed on debut at scrum-half with courage and determination throughout.
Next Saturday (11th October), Isle of Wight RFC return to Wootton where both the 1st XV and Casuals will host Overton, with kick-offs at 15:00.
