Ventnor Rugby Club have made a winning start to life in Hampshire Counties Two after overcoming Romsey 17-7 at Watcombe.
The Isle of Wight side produced an impressive performance during the opening 30 minutes of their first game in the division, before play was halted following an injury to Romsey’s fly-half. The stoppage lasted for well over an hour while an ambulance was awaited.
Ventnor Rugby Club has since reported that the injured Romsey player is doing well and is not in danger, with several Ventnor players, coaches and support staff visiting him during his stay at St Mary’s Hospital.
Romsey gained a foothold in the contest following the restart, while a pair of yellow cards added to the pressure on the hosts.
Ventnor eventually regained control to secure a 17-7 victory in front of a strong home crowd.
Alec Bulpitt crossed for a try, while Tom Branagh scored twice. Josh Ford added a conversion.
Bulpitt was presented with the A J Wells Man of the Match Award, while Luke Butler claimed the Red Funnel Moment of the Match.
There was also activity away from the pitch, with Indra Riches presenting Sarah Dunsterville of The Wave Project with a £200 donation.
The money was raised by Roly and his team at the Randonnee earlier in the month. The Wave Project supports children and young people with their mental health and wellbeing through Surf Therapy.
Ahead of the match, Ventnor held a VPs’ lunch and welcomed Ventnor Mayor Steve Cooper and his wife Lucy.
Club President Rev Warren Riches opened proceedings with his Real Deal Auction, raising money towards the players’ end-of-season party.
The club also thanked those who helped prepare the clubhouse and pitch ahead of the new campaign, as well as Sally Cooper and her staff at The Bistro at London House for providing food for the lunch and Stuart Babington for his speech.
Ventnor’s attention now turns to another home fixture this Saturday, when the 1st XV face Tottonians 2nds.
The 2 sides were promoted at the end of last season, with Ventnor expecting another tough encounter.
Meanwhile, Ventnor’s 2nd XV will begin their Counties Six campaign away against Saint Romsey, a composite side made up of Romsey 2nds and Southampton 2nds.
Ventnor Rugby Club says strong training numbers and quality have provided encouragement ahead of the weekend’s matches.
