A treble of tries from fly-half George Huish and a debut score from number 8 Joe Bussell weren’t enough as Isle of Wight were edged out (26-33) by Overton on Saturday (11th October).
Isle of Wight RFC’s first home league match of the season ended in narrow defeat despite a spirited second-half comeback that had the Wootton crowd roaring. Missing influential captain Luke Blackman, the Islanders fought back from a 12-point deficit but were denied by a clinical late try from the visitors.
With two debutants, Bussell and centre Aidan Wan, IW started brightly but Overton’s sharp handling and pace out wide brought 2 well-taken early tries. The hosts hit back through Bussell, who powered over from close range after sustained forward pressure. Overton responded before the break to stretch their lead.
Half time: Isle of Wight 7–19 Overton
Strong words at the interval inspired a turnaround. The IW pack upped their intensity, creating quick ball for Huish to slice through for his first try. Moments later, a sweeping team move started by stand-in skipper David Blackman saw the ball pass through multiple hands before Huish dived over again, his conversion levelling the score (19-19).
With their scrum dominant, IW pressed on and Huish completed his treble, bursting through under the posts to give his side the lead (26-19). But Overton showed resilience, replying swiftly (26-26) before Huish was narrowly wide with a penalty. The visitors then struck late, capitalising on a penalty deep in their own half to mount one final attack and claim the decisive score (26-33).
Although disappointed, IW took encouragement from their comeback and earned 2 bonus points.
Full time: Isle of Wight 26–33 Overton
Isle of Wight XV: Rolfe, Wynyard-Wright, Wan, Marsh, Young, Huish, Vickers, Newnham, McQueen, Keyes, Blackburn, J. Bishop, Hart, D. Blackman, Bussell, Savill, Thorne.
Isle of Wight’s next fixture is away to Portsmouth II on Saturday.
