Ventnor 2nd XV produced a spirited display but were ultimately outgunned by a powerful United Services Portsmouth side, losing 77–0 at Watcombe Bottom on Saturday.
United Services Portsmouth travelled to Watcombe with a squad barely recognisable from the team involved in the abandoned fixture between the sides just 2 weeks earlier.
Ventnor had looked impressive in that earlier encounter and once again showed plenty of resilience in the opening half, where co-captain Jack Gilbey led by example with an irrepressible display. His work-rate and tackle count were exceptional as he drove his side forward.
Alongside front-row teammates Iain Reeves, Grant Richardson and co-captain Jack Rushton, Ventnor enjoyed success at the set piece, while Pat Banks kept the visitors’ well-drilled lineout honest throughout.
Despite the hosts’ determination, United Services Portsmouth managed to cross for a pair of converted tries in the first half. Ventnor’s defensive effort – particularly from the back row of Dean Magnurson, Charlie Magnurson and the hugely impressive Charlie Sutton – made life difficult for the visitors.
Nathan Frampton threw himself into the contest early on and Ewan Castle worked tirelessly as the pressure gradually began to build.
Rosco Harris and Beau Bridges had their work cut out as possession became harder to come by, but Ed Blake made the most of the limited ball, consistently making valuable ground when opportunities arose.
Ventnor started the second half trailing by just 14 points but were soon faced with a relentless wave of attacks as United Services Portsmouth’s drills, powerful running and superior fitness began to take their toll.
Tries began to flow for the visitors, though Ventnor continued to defend bravely. Luke Starkey, Olly Wood and Blake Tombleson put in strong defensive efforts around the edges, while Chris Skelley delivered several crunching tackles in the tight exchanges.
Henrik Brown showed encouraging development in his all-round play, Warren Riches handled the high ball well under pressure and Adam Wade demonstrated his commitment with a lung-bursting chase to deny a flying USP winger.
Although the scoreline suggests a one-sided contest, Ventnor never wavered and the squad’s spirit and camaraderie remained evident throughout against a visiting side boasting significantly greater depth.
Ventnor: I Reeves, Jack Gilbey (co-capt), Grant Richardson, Ewan Castle, Nathan Frampton, Dean Magnurson, Pat Banks, Charlie Magnurson, Rosco Harris, Beau Bridges, Adam Wade, Ed Blake, Luke Starkey, Olly Wood, Warren Riches Subs: Henrik Brown, Peat, Charlie Sutton, J Blake, Blake Tombleson, Jack Rushton (co-capt), Chris Skelley Coaches: Damien Marriott, Clive Cardwell-Hill, Todd Riches and Andy Teague Physio: Todd Connor
A.J. Wells Man of the Match: Chris Skelley
Red Funnel Moment of the Match: Ewan Castle
Howden Insurance Supporters of the Day: Mike Knight and John Metcalfe
Next Saturday (21st March) Ventnor 1sts play Portsmouth 2nds at Watcombe
The next game for the 2nds is a friendly against Fordingbridge away on 4th April
