Ventnor 1st XV ran in 9 tries to defeat Overton 57-10 at Watcombe Bottom, strengthening their position at the top of Hampshire Counties Three.
Ventnor began the day leading the table and looking to continue their impressive campaign against an Overton side keen to avenge defeat from the reverse fixture a month earlier.
The visitors applied early pressure, but Ventnor quickly worked their way upfield after a well-executed kick-and-chase from Josh Ford, with Max Wheeler and Jack Gilbey charging down to force an Overton knock-on.
The Islanders soon settled into their rhythm. Slick phase play stretched the defence before Harvey Wheeler spotted a gap and raced through for the opening try, converted by Ford.
Ventnor’s pack dominated the scrum throughout the afternoon, with Dan Lythgoe, Jewy Jones and Jack Rushton providing a strong platform. The pressure continued when Joe Coghlan brought play back inside, allowing Will Broomfield to crash through several defenders for the home side’s second try.
Further powerful carries from Jason Coltham and Lewy Morton broke the Overton line again, with the ball eventually worked wide for Tom Branagh to cross.
Overton managed to get on the board shortly before the break with a penalty after an infringement, but Ventnor had the final say of the half. With an overlap created out wide, Ford forced his way over for another try.
Half-time: Ventnor 22-3 Overton.
Ventnor started the second half with the same attacking intent. Harvey Wheeler’s clever kick ahead was followed by a strong chase and offload that allowed Pat Banks to score on his Watcombe debut.
Branagh soon added his second of the afternoon after chasing down his own kick, tackling the receiver and stealing possession before diving over.
Max Wheeler then powered in from out wide to add another try as Ventnor’s relentless attack continued.
Debutant Tony Jacobson also got on the scoresheet when Tom Crews moved the ball wide, allowing the winger to cross for his first try in Ventnor colours.
The hosts were not finished there. Archie Lucy burst through the defence before Riley Lloyd finished the move to score his second try for the club.
Overton managed a late consolation try, but it did little to dampen what had been a highly successful afternoon for the home side, who ran in 9 tries with Ford adding 6 conversions.
Full-time: Ventnor 57-10 Overton.
Ventnor: Rushton, Jones, D Lythgoe, Broomfield, Coltham, Gilbey, L Morton (capt), H Wheeler, Coghlan, Ford, Jacobson, Branagh, M Wheeler, E Blake Subs: Lloyd, Banks, Crews Coaches: Damien Marriott, Clive Cardwell-Hill, Todd Riches and Andy Teague Physio: Sarah Watt.
A.J. Wells Man of the Match: Josh Ford.
Red Funnel Moment of the Match: Pat Banks.
Howden Insurance Supporters of the Day: Gavin Ford.
Ventnor 2nd XV will be eager to return to action after their home fixture against Isle of Wight 2nds was postponed due to a lack of players from the visitors. They are next due to host United Services Portsmouth in a rearranged fixture.
Ventnor 1st XV are next in action on 21st March when they face Portsmouth 2nds at Watcombe Bottom.
