Ventnor travelled with just 12 players and borrowed 3 from the opposition as Fordingbridge claimed a 45-15 victory in an entertaining friendly on Saturday (4th April).
Ventnor made the brighter start despite their numerical disadvantage, opening the scoring through Pat Banks after a flowing move involving Olly Wood, Max Henley and Tom Scadden.
The Islanders showed plenty of attacking intent early on, but Fordingbridge responded by bringing their powerful forwards into play to seize control of proceedings.
Strong defensive efforts from captain Jack Gilbey and Charlie Sutton kept Ventnor in contention, but the hosts built a 21-5 lead before the visitors struck again.
A well-worked move saw Ed Blake and Henrik Brown make ground, with Blake Tombleson recycling possession. Scadden then drove forward before sending Joel Cocks crashing over. Warren Riches’ conversion attempt struck the bar as the halftime whistle blew, leaving the score at 21-10.
Fordingbridge dominated the second half, combining physicality up front with sharp handling in the backs, although Ventnor continued to defend resolutely through Adam Wade, Wood, Scadden and Henley.
Banks grabbed his second try following good interplay between Brown and Gilbey from a lineout, but the home side finished strongly to extend their lead and secure a 45-15 win.
Ventnor: Cocks, Brown, Miles, Tombleson, David, Gilbey (capt), Sutton, Banks, Henley, Scadden, Wood, Tyler, E. Blake, Wade, W. Riches Coach: Clive Cardwell-Hill
Physio: Amelia A.J. Wells Man of the Match: Joel Cocks Red Funnel Moment of the Match: Tom Scadden Howden Insurance Supporter of the Day: Callum
Ventnor return to action next Saturday (11th April), with the 1st XV travelling to Aldershot & Fleet, while the 2nd XV host Ellingham and Ringwood at Watcombe.
