Vectis RFC’s youth squads battled mud and fierce opposition to secure a dramatic Colts win and double TREDS honours at Winchester.
It was a weekend of resilience and outstanding sportsmanship for Vectis RFC, with squads travelling across Hampshire and hosting fixtures on the Isle of Wight – returning home with silverware and pride intact.
Colts edge thriller at SSRFC
In a nail-biting league clash at Shanklin & Sandown RFC, the Vectis Colts secured a hard-fought 17–14 victory over Petersfield RFC.
The sides were evenly matched from the first whistle, trading territory and possession in a high-intensity encounter that could have gone either way. But when it mattered most, Vectis’ defensive line held firm, throwing bodies on the line and refusing to concede ground.
Billy G, Ben W and Freddie K each crossed for tries, with Preston adding a crucial conversion after the opening score – ultimately the difference between the 2 sides. Preston’s composed all-round display earned him Man of the Match honours, although coaches praised the collective defensive effort that sealed the win.
TREDS double at Winchester Festival
The miserable weather did little to dampen spirits at the Winchester Rugby Festival, where Vectis’ Under 8s and Under 9s were both voted recipients of the prestigious TREDS Award – recognising Teamwork, Resilience, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportsmanship.
The U8s fielded 2 teams, each playing six matches against sides including Andover RFC, Basingstoke RFC and Gosport & Fareham RFC. Strong defensive organisation and unselfish passing ensured every squad member crossed the try line, while debutants Ada and Harry were seamlessly welcomed into festival rugby.
The U9s also entered 2 sides and demonstrated clear progress in contact rugby against Locksheath Pumas RFC, Chichester RFC and Trojans RFC. Milo, Baxter and Noah led by example – with Noah jokingly credited with “8,000 tackles” – while Dylan impressed on debut and Felix provided strong leadership throughout.
U10s host at IWRFC
Back on the Island at Isle of Wight RFC, the Under 10s welcomed Midhurst RFC for a round-robin friendly.
Head coach Allan Bridges described the morning as exactly what U10s rugby should represent – confidence building, decision-making and friendly rivalry. Frank, Jacob, Oliver and b were named Players of the Day for their resilience and endeavour.
In a message of thanks, Midhurst said:
“A massive thank you to everyone at the clubhouse, the coaches and kids. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming – a true rugby family. It was lovely to see and experience. Thank you for hosting us.”
U16s fight back on the road
Further afield, the Under 16s travelled to face Eastleigh Pirates RFC with a bare-minimum squad of 15 players.
Trailing 27–7 at half-time, Vectis regrouped and delivered a far stronger second-half display, eventually finishing 32–14. Team manager Trev Rice praised the squad’s resilience and highlighted Caiden’s impressive debut at hooker in his first competitive outing.
Next weekend sees more action at Isle of Wight RFC on Saturday morning, with Weybridge Vandals RFC making the trip across the Solent.
