Ventnor delivered a dominant performance in their opening Hampshire Counties 3 League fixture on Saturday (4th October), storming to an emphatic victory over Aldershot and Fleet at Watcombe Bottom.
With the strong winds of Storm Amy at their backs, Ventnor gained early territorial advantage and, once they settled, began to impose their authority. Luke Butler, at fly-half, marshalled play effectively as tries came from Josh Braham, Tom Branagh, Jason Coltham and Hayden Lythgoe, with Tom Crews adding conversions. Skipper Lewy Morton played a key role, showing leadership and unselfish play in setting up scores.
A dominant forward pack, including Jack Rushton, Lewis Jones and Dan Lythgoe, ensured a strong platform, while Morton and Joe Coghlan commanded the lineout. Jacob Jordan scored 2 powerful tries, followed by further tries from Braham and Branagh to leave the halftime score at a remarkable 52-0.
Half time: Ventnor 52-0 Andover
Despite playing into the wind in the second half, Ventnor struck again through Branagh, who secured his hat-trick. Even after an injury to Dan Lythgoe, replacements George Collett and Jack Gilbey maintained the momentum. The visitors managed 2 second-half tries, but Ventnor had the final say as Branagh crossed for his 4th, with Crews converting 7 of the 10 tries in difficult conditions.
Full time: Ventnor 64-12 Andover
Ventnor: Rushton, Jones, D. Lythgoe, L. Morton (capt), Coltham, Coghlan, Jordan, H. Wheeler, Souter, Butler, H. Lythgoe, M. Wheeler, Branagh, Braham, Crews
Subs: Collett, Broomfield, Gilbey Coaches: Damien Marriott, Clive Cardwell-Hill, Todd Riches, Andy Teague, Dean Magnurson Physio: Sarah Watt
A.J.Wells Man of the Match: Tom Branagh
The Red Funnel Moment of the Match: Hayden Lythgoe
Howden Insurance Supporters of the Day: Steve Cooper (the Mayor of Ventnor) and Lucy
After the game, Damien Marriott, Head Coach, said:
“Really proud of the lads today. We spoke in pre-season about setting standards, and this performance showed what happens when we bring energy, accuracy and discipline. From the first whistle we controlled territory, stuck to our structures, and played with real intent.
“The forwards gave us a great platform and the backs finished clinically – exactly the balance we’ve been working towards. Plenty of positives, but also areas to tighten up defensively as we build consistency. Massive credit to everyone in the squad for their effort and intensity. We’ll enjoy the win, but our focus now turns to backing it up next week.”
Ventnor: Rushton, Jones, D. Lythgoe, L. Morton (capt), Coltham, Coghlan, Jordan, H. Wheeler, Souter, Butler, H. Lythgoe, M. Wheeler, Branagh, Braham, Crews
Subs: Collett, Broomfield, Gilbey Coaches: Damien Marriott, Clive Cardwell-Hill, Todd Riches, Andy Teague, Dean Magnurson Physio: Sarah Watt
A.J.Wells Man of the Match: Tom Branagh
The Red Funnel Moment of the Match: Hayden Lythgoe
Howden Insurance Supporters of the Day: Steve Cooper (the Mayor of Ventnor) and Lucy
Ventnor 2nds were awarded 5 points after their away match to Ellingham and Ringwood 2nds was cancelled due to the hosts being unable to field a team.
Next up, on Saturday (11th October), Ventnor 1sts travel to face Ellingham and Ringwood 2nds, while Ventnor 2nds host Fawley 2nds at Watcombe Bottom.
