Ventnor’s 2nd XV saved some of their best rugby for their final Hampshire Premiership South outing, pushing hosts Christchurch far harder than the scoreline suggests.
A sluggish opening proved costly for the visitors, who conceded 3 tries inside the first 20 minutes—raising fears of a long afternoon on the mainland.
The first came after Christchurch took a quick line-out following what Ventnor felt should have been their throw, with captain Warren Riches questioning the decision. Further defensive lapses allowed the home side’s dangerous backline to add 2 more in quick succession.
However, Ventnor responded impressively.
The front row of Iain Reeves, Henrik Brown and James Blake began to assert dominance, with locks Ewan Castle and Will Broomfield providing power in the engine room. That platform allowed half-backs Max Henley and Beau Bridgeman to release the backs, where Harvey Wheeler—thriving in the centres—and debutant John Waghorn caused problems.
Wheeler crossed after sharp footwork to get Ventnor on the board, before Broomfield powered over to close the gap to 21-10.
Christchurch hit back with another try, but Broomfield grabbed his second from close range and Riches added the extras to leave it finely poised at the break.
Half time: Christchurch 26-17 Ventnor
In the 2nd half, Ventnor continued to grow into the contest.
Despite an injury to Castle forcing a reshuffle, with Aaron Robinson moving into the second row and Adam Wade returning to the wing, the Islanders maintained their set-piece strength—particularly in the scrum.
No.8 Dean Magnurson, alongside tireless flankers Pat Banks and debutant Ben Westbrook, began to dominate the breakdown, with Christchurch’s discipline faltering as the penalty count mounted.
Ventnor enjoyed their best spell in the final 20 minutes, playing expansive rugby and creating several clear chances, only for handling errors to deny them further tries.
Christchurch added another from close range, but Banks responded with a deserved score following sustained pressure in midfield.
Winger Ollie Wood came close to adding another after a well-executed kick-and-chase, while a Christchurch player was shown a yellow card for a high tackle during a period of heavy Ventnor pressure.
Despite pushing until the final whistle, Ventnor were unable to add to their tally, with the game finishing 38-22.
There were plenty of positives to take, with a strong forward platform and effective half-back pairing providing quality ball for an increasingly confident backline.
With promising Colts such as Westbrook, Waghorn and Robinson stepping up, the future looks bright for the blue and white.
Full time: Christchurch 38-22 Ventnor
Team: I Reeves, Brown, J Blake, Castle, Broomfield, Banks, Westbrook, D Magnurson, Henley, Bridgeman, Wood, H Wheeler, Waghorn, Wade, W Riches (capt).
Subs: Lloyd, Robinson
A.J. Wells Man of the Match: Ben Westbrook
Red Funnel Moment of the Match: Ollie Wood
Howden Insurance Supporter of the Day: Gavin Ford
Ventnor now turn their attention to the Community Plate quarter-final away to Old Glynonians on 2nd May.
