Ventnor recorded a hard-fought victory over Isle of Wight in an entertaining Hampshire Counties Three encounter at Watcombe Bottom on Saturday (28th March).
The Rangers were beaten 30-17 in a high-tempo contest between 2 committed sides, with Ventnor proving clinical at key moments despite a strong and spirited response from the visitors.
Both teams began at pace, showing a willingness to attack from all areas of the field. Ventnor’s aggressive defensive line quickly forced errors, and it was from one such moment that the opening score developed. A turnover near halfway allowed the hosts to break, and after swift handling through the backs, Tom Branagh forced his way over for the first try (5-0).
Ventnor continued to build pressure, particularly through a solid scrum platform that disrupted Isle of Wight possession. Another loose pass was punished as Branagh kicked ahead, gathered and touched down under the posts, with the conversion extending the lead (12-0). A third try followed after sustained forward pressure, Dan Lythgoe powering over from close range to give the home side firm control (17-0).
Despite the early setback, the Rangers responded well and showed resilience to work their way back into the contest. Improved ball retention and support play began to test the Ventnor defence, and 2 quick tries brought Isle of Wight back into the match. The 2nd, finished impressively by George Huish, reduced the deficit and shifted the momentum (17-10).
Ventnor steadied themselves with a penalty to halt that progress (20-10), and discipline began to play a role as Isle of Wight were reduced to 14 players following a yellow card late in the half.
Half time: Ventnor 20-10 Isle of Wight
Isle of Wight began the 2nd half with renewed purpose, using the boot effectively to gain territory and applying pressure through multiple phases. Their efforts were rewarded with a close-range try, which was converted to bring the Rangers back within a single score (20-17).
Ventnor responded with increased physicality, particularly through their forwards. Another high tackle from Isle of Wight resulted in a further yellow card, and the hosts capitalised from the resulting pressure. After opting to play quickly from a penalty, strong carrying and quick hands created space for a decisive try to restore control.
The Rangers continued to compete strongly and showed determination in both attack and defence, but Ventnor’s defensive organisation held firm during the closing stages. As Isle of Wight pressed for another score, a loose pass under pressure was intercepted deep inside the home half, and the resulting breakaway try sealed the result (30-17).
Full time: Ventnor 30-17 Isle of Wight
Isle of Wight pushed their hosts for long periods and showed clear attacking intent, but indiscipline and key moments ultimately proved costly against a well-organised Ventnor side.
After the match, Ventnor head coach Damien Marriott said:
“We came out flying and built a 17-0 lead playing exactly how we want to — high tempo, moving the ball, and putting them under pressure. That’s Ventnor at its best.
Credit to Isle of Wight, they fought their way back into it which tested us. That’s the big growth for me today — earlier in the season maybe we would have panicked there, but the boys stayed composed, stuck to the plan, and then pulled away again.
To finish strongly and take control of the game again says a lot about this group. Really proud of the lads — another step forward.”
Ventnor now travel to Aldershot & Fleet on 11th April knowing that a single point will secure the league title.
