After a few games of fluctuating form, Ventnor 1XV went into this weekends game with a positive attitude and a determination to play the kind of rugby they all know they are capable of.
As the mist passed the game kicked off, but it soon became apparent that the game wasn’t going to be an easy one. Overton went over, within the first 5 minutes, to score their first try of the day. Not the start that Ventnor was hoping for.
1 try soon became 2, but Ventnor refused to let their heads drop and used the frustration to good effect. Ed Blake broke the line with a tap and go penalty and scored Ventnor’s first try, converted by Max Wheeler.
Overton hit back with some hard runs from their forwards but Ventnor learnt from their previous tries that they must tackle well. After a good phase of strong defence on their own try line Ventnor prevented them from scoring again. This seemed to give Ventnor the motivation they needed to play some aggressive rugby and were rewarded with a try that came from their number 8 Harry Colson, who continues to improve each week.
Half time finished at 12 – 12.
The second half didn’t go Ventnor’s way and although it was a closely fought battle in the worsening mud, the game would end at 12 – 27 in favour of the visitors.
Although another loss, Ventnor showed some real promise that they are capable of playing some good rugby with a new developing squad and will approach their next game at Ellingham and Ringwood with the same attitude.
Ventnor would like to thank the following match day sponsors: Signpost Express; Barry Pike; Island Food Services; Mackenzies Chartered Accountants; Groundsell Contracting Ltd; Abacus Express Logistics and Gamson Grey Design and Media.
AJ Wells Man of the Match: Pat Dawes
Red Funnel Moment of the Match: Sam Dawson
Team – Dawson, Jones, Pratt, Tucker, Teague, Marsh, Edwards, Colson, Bridges, Wheeler, Atkins, Dawes, Urbonas, Turner, Blake Subs – Keyes, Babington
Report by Sam Dawson
