Portsmouth v Bournemouth 2nds, Saturday 16th November 2024, Counties 1 Hampshire League

The day started with a lunch in memory of Club stalwart Ken Reilly who sadly passed away last week. There were about 60 members present together with Jenny Reilly and her family. There was much recalling of memories of yesteryear. Just before the matches started, teams from the two games lined up for 1 minute’s applause in K.R’s memory.

Bournemouth are a much improved side from the one we played last season so Portsmouth new they were in for good contest and so it proved.
Portsmouth got the match underway and soon had Bournemouth pinned in their 22. A relieving kick from the visitors saw Portsmouth spin the ball through several pairs of hands and the move was finished of by Leo Wall who dotted down out wide. The conversion fell short so the score stood at 5-0 after about 3 minutes. Just under 10 minutes later Portsmouth set up another good handling move which was again finished off by Leo Wall scoring out wide. Again the kick fell short and they now led by 10-0. Portsmouth then lost Liam Avis to a yellow card for a high tackle. Following a penalty against the home side Bournemouth set up an attack and their big second row crashed over but somehow Portsmouth managed to get under him thus preventing a try. Bournemouth were now playing with a bit more confidence and they set up another attack which this time resulted in a try out wide which they converted, taking the score to 10-7 with about 30 minutes played. Avis was now back on having served his 10 minutes.

A good run from full back Matt Higgins saw play go deep into the opposition half. Brad Jewer than came close to scoring when he chased up a kick but he just put a foot in touch as he gathered the ball. Olie Avis then collected a kick from Bournemouth in his own half with the resultant kick going into touch giving the lineout to Portsmouth with a 50/22 kick but they then lost the lineout. Just on the stroke of half time Portsmouth set up another attack resulting in Wall going over for his hat- trick. Again the kick missed but the lead was now 15-7 as the half time whistle went.

Portsmouth made a change with Lee Chandler coming off to be replaced by Vinnie Jefferies. A good kick up field by Oli Avis saw the ball bounce close to the try line as Portsmouth followed up. A Bournemouth player got there first but was then penalised for holding on after the tackle. From the resultant scrum the ball was got quickly away by scrum half Wright and the ball went through various hands before Sam Olie took the final pass and cutting back inside scored under the posts. Matt Hughes was now taking on the conversions and his kick dissected the posts giving Portsmouth a 22-7 lead. Adam Parks-Dare then came off to be replaced by Louis Bristow, This was the home side’s 4 try giving them a bonus point. Brad Jewer also came off to be replaced by Harvey Field.

Bournemouth were again giving Portsmouth some problems and only good defensive work kept them out. Portsmouth then lost Bristow to a yellow card. Taking advantage of the yellow card Bournemouth set up an attack and scored their second converted try taking the score to 22-14. A good attack by Portsmouth eventually came to nothing when the final pass was adjudged to be forward. Portsmouth were now in attacking mode and a brilliant run by Jas Solanki saw him take the ball across field dummying his way through the opposition before stepping back inside to score close to the posts, again Higgins was on target with the conversion and the lead was now 29-14. From a scrum to Bournemouth 5 metres from the try line they broke blind and managed to squeeze in at the corner, the conversion missed and the score was now 29-19. The whistle went shortly after as Bournemouth knocked on and the game came to an end.
This was a good win for Portsmouth who were without their skipper who is serving a 2 match ban following his red card last week.

Ant Fooks stood in at No.8 and acquitted himself well and Sam Foster led the team well in the absence of Beesley. The pack played well against good opposition and the backs are now looking to be a potent force. Bournemouth had a few players who were playing 1st team rugby last season but with an influx of new player’s to their 1’s, are now in the seconds.

The disappointment for Portsmouth was that they were due to field 4 teams this weekend with 3 at home and 1 away. Unfortunately 2 of the opposition teams were unable to field sides so although Portsmouth 2nd got a walkover, the Vets away friendly game was also called off. Next week sees Portsmouth travel to Eastleigh which promises to be another hard game. Eastleigh lost away to Ellingham & Ringwood 48-16. Eastleigh are now 6th. with Portsmouth in 8th.

TEAM
LIAM AVIS, BRAD ATKINS, ADAM PARKS-DARE
SAM FOSTER(C), BRYN RAINFORD
LEE CHANDLER, HENRI DAVIES, ANT FOOKS
GEORGE WRIGHT, JAS SOLANKI
LEO WALL, OLI AVIS, SAM OLIE, BRAD JEWER
MATT HIGGINS

BENCH
LOUIS BRISTOW, VINNIE JEFFERIES, HARVEY FIELD

Portsmouth v New Milton, Saturday 9th November 2024, Counties 1 Hampshire League

Portsmouth travelled into the heart of the New Forest for this match. The game was preceded by a minutes silence in respect of Remembrance Sunday.
Portsmouth got the game underway and soon had New Milton pinned in their half of the pitch. Despite several attacks on the opposition line they were only able to come away with 3 points from a penalty after about 10 minutes, through the boot of Jas Solanki. It was another 5 minutes before they added to their score with a try by Brad Jewer after play had gone from one side of the pitch to the other. The conversion by Solanki was good and they now led 5-10.

Shortly after this New Milton managed to get into the Portsmouth half and eventually they won a penalty which they converted to take to score to 3-10. With the game now being played between the 22’s it was New Milton who added to their score with a second penalty making it 6-10 on 24 minutes. Portsmouth were having problems with the lineout but eventually they scored through Aaron Beesley but the referee ruled it out as he had touched down on the 5 metre line by mistake. The same thing happened last season when we played here. Fortunately he soon made amends when from a scrum he broke clear and scored out wide. The conversion missed but their lead was now 6-15 with about 4 minutes of the half remaining. New Milton pressed hard for a score but good defense kept them out. Portsmouth then added to their score with a well worked try scored by Olie Avis. Again the kick missed but the score was now 6-20 and the half time whistle went just after the last score.

The second half got underway with Louis Bristow going on to prop, with Adam Parks-Dare coming off. The Portsmouth pack were giving a very good account of themselves, often pushing their opponents right off the ball. Sam Foster also came off with Lee Chandler taking his place, Liam Glazebrook showed his pace when he ran from his 22 right into the opposition 22 before he was tackled. The first score of the second half came from a penalty to Portsmouth converted by Solanki, taking the score to 6-23 on 59 minutes. From a 5 metre scrum Portsmouth drove their opponents back and Liam Glazebrook picked up the ball and scored out wide. This time Solanki converted the try taking the score to 6-30 on 62 minutes. That was their 4 try and a bonus point.

Parks-Dare then went back on as Liam Glazebrook came off. New Milton were under some pressure and they threw out a rather speculative ball that went to no one in particular. Sam Olie was aware of what was happening and he quickly sped through to touch down with ball almost under the posts. Solanki was again on target and the score was now 6-37 on 69 minutes.

New Milton were now getting a bit frustrated as they were desperate to score a try but good defense kept them out. Almost on the stroke of half time there was a bit of a tussle with one Portsmouth player lying on the ground, appearing to be kicked in the back. More scuffles broke out and the upshot was a red card issued to Beesley with the final whistle going immediately after.

This was a good result for Portsmouth, apart from the red card, although they struggled at times with the lineout and sometimes handling let them down resulting in missed opportunities.

Portsmouth’s position in the table sees them move up to 9th on 12 points, just 1 point ahead of Bognor. Bournemouth 2nds are only 3 points ahead on 15 as they lost to Effingham & Ringwood 7-25. Bournemouth are next week’s opponents so that promises to be a close match.
All matches for November, December, January and February are a 2.00pm kick off unless played under lights. Please make a note so you don’t miss any of the game. This is an R.F.U ruling.

TEAM
LIAM AVIS, ANT FOOKS, ADAM PARKS-DARE
MATT HOBAN, BRYN RAINFORD
SAM FOSTER, LIAM GLAZEBROOK, AARON BEESLEY (C)
GEORGE WRIGHT, JAS SOLANKI
HARVEY FIELD, OLIE AVIS, SAM OLIE, BRAD JEWER
MATT HIGGINS

BENCH
LOUIS BRISTOW, LEE CHANDLER, ALI MACDONALD

Portsmouth v Guernsey 2nds, Saturday 26th October 2024, Counties 1 Hampshire League

What a weekend at Rugby Camp. On Friday night Portsmouth Vets travelled to Petersfield to play their Vets and ran out comfortable winners 7-38.

On Saturday Portsmouth had 3 senior men’s teams in action plus the Valkyries 2nd XV playing Swanage & Wareham also at home, running out winners 38-19. And then as if that wasn’t enough, Portsmouth held their annual Octoberfest at the Club in the evening with about 120 attending.

The Valkyries kicked off at 12.30p.m. with the Men’s 1’s starting at 1 o’clock. Then the 2nds & 3rds started when those games had concluded.
Portsmouth got their game underway and they soon put pressure on the Guernsey line. A good passing move came to nothing when the final pass didn’t quite make it to the receiver and the ball got knocked on, giving a scrum to Guernsey. They secured the ball and a kick upfield saw them in the Portsmouth half for the first time after about 12 minutes of play. Following another penalty against Portsmouth, the decision was queried and they were marched back a further 10 metres.

This put them in kicking range and they secured the first points of the game giving them a 0-3 lead on 20 minutes. 10 minutes later, Guernsey added a further 3 points to their score following a penalty against the home side. The score was now 0-6. Portsmouth were soon setting up attacks of their own and a good run by centre Will Dalziel saw him just tackled into touch about 5 metres out from the try line. Good possession by Portsmouth saw them spin the ball from left to right and the ball eventually found its way to Beesley who crossed out wide for the first try of the match. The conversion just fell short and the score was now 5-6 with about 35 minutes gone. The half time whistle went shortly after but not before Portsmouth lost Solanki to a yellow card for offside.

The second half got underway and Guernsey were soon pressing the Portsmouth try line especially as they were against 14 players. Poor tackling
by Portsmouth rather let Guernsey score their first try out wide. The conversion missed and the score was now 5-11 with about 43 minutes on the clock. Portsmouth then made a change with Henri Davies coming off to be replaced by Lee Chandler. Chandler went to 6 with Foster moving across to 7. This was followed shortly after with Harvey Field coming off. He was replaced by Matt Higgins. Portsmouth were then back to a full complement when Solanki came back on having served his 10 minutes.

Shortly after Portsmouth set up another good attacking move that saw the ball moved well from one touch line to the other with Matt Higgins finally crossing for a try. Solanki was on target and Portsmouth now found themselves ahead with the score 12-11 on about 50 minutes. Shortly after, Fooks came off to be replaced by Louis Bristow in the front row. From a Guernsey attack Dalziel put in a good tackle but got caught on his forehead by the boot of the tackled player. As a result he had to leave the field. He was replaced by Harvey Field.

With a penalty against Portsmouth, Guernsey put pressure on the Portsmouth try line and eventually crossed for a converted try taking back the lead 12-18 on about 70 minutes. 5 minutes later they extended that lead with a penalty making the score 12-21 with about 5 minutes remaining. Another penalty against Portsmouth saw Guernsey extend their lead to 12-21. Portsmouth then seemed to get a bit more energy to their play as time was running out. Another good move saw the ball passed to Charlton who with little room to move managed to dot down with out going into touch. The conversion missed and the score was now 17- 21 at least giving them a valuable bonus point, as the final whistle went.

This was a very disappointing result, especially after the display of last week. The game was rather loose and unstructured. The Portsmouth pack were again up against much heavier opponents with meant they were often winning ball but going backwards which put the backs under pressure. The handling and passing in the backs was also at times rather poor with dropped or missed catches.

This result sees them stay in 11th place with 7 bonus points. New Milton, their next opponents in 2 weeks time are 12th on 4 bonus points. They lost to Ellingham & Ringwood 84-0. With next week a rest week, hopefully it will give those players with injuries, time to recover.

TEAM
LIAM AVIS, BRAD ATKINS, ANT FOOKS
MATT HOBAN, BRYN RAINFORD
SAM FOSTER, HENRI DAVIES, AARON BEESLEY(C)
GEORGE WRIGHT, JAS SOLANKI
LEO WALL, SAM OLIE, WILL DALZIEL, CONNOR CHARLTON
HARVEY FIELD

BENCH
LOUIS BRISTOW, LEE CHANDLER, MATT HIGGINS

Portsmouth v Havant, Saturday 19th October 2024, Counties 1 Hampshire League

Portsmouth travelled the very short distance to Havant on a bright and sunny day that was also unusually warm for the time of year.

Portsmouth welcomed back James Hebbard following a break after suffering from concussion. They also lost Brad Jewer on the morning of the match following illness. His place in the centre was taken by Will Dalziel who was due to play full back. The fullback position was taken by Ali Macdonald who came of the bench. Matt Hughes went onto the bench. The game was being played on the Havant 1st XV 4G all weather pitch.

Havant got the game underway and Portsmouth went straight into attack mode with a nice kick deep into the Havant 22. Fortunately the ball came off a Havant player so it was Portsmouth’s throw in. Havant managed to burgle the ball but Portsmouth managed to get it back and a good kick from No. 10 Solanki saw another line out about 5 metres from the try line. Havant worked the ball upfield but their kick went into touch just outside the 22 giving Portsmouth another line out. A good break by Dalziel saw him make inroads into the Havant 22 and was tackled just short of the try line. Havant soon got back on the attack and eventually they broke through to score a converted try giving them a 7-0 lead on 12 minutes.

The Havant pack, which was much bigger than the visitors, then managed to set up a maul and they crossed for their second converted try giving them a 14-0 lead on 16 minutes. Portsmouth were not to be outdone and a good run saw the visitors spin the ball across the backs with Solanki making a good run before passing to Sam Olie who ran through the defence to score close to the points. Solanki’s conversion was good and the score was now 14-7 on 20 minutes.

Portsmouth were now getting used to the pace of the all weather pitch and this showed in their running with the ball. A kick from Havant didn’t find touch and Ali Macdonald set up a counter attack. Following a kick ahead by Portsmouth saw prop Liam Avis gather the ball and cross for their second try, Solanki’s kick just went short, taking the score to 14-12 on 30 minutes. Havant hit back soon after with an unconverted try taking the score to 19-12 on 30 minutes. 5 minutes later Portsmouth were awarded a penalty following another good run by Dalziel which was only stopped by a high tackle, the kick was taken by Solanki taking the score to 19-15 with about 5 minutes of the half remaining. The remaining minutes saw both sides vying for territory but neither side getting the better of the other.

The second half got underway with Havant pressing but a penalty for going over the top saw Portsmouth clear their lines with a good touch kick. Havant then increased their lead with a well taken try scored out wide. The conversion missed and their lead increased to 24-15 on 46 minutes.

Ali Macdonald then came off to be replaced by Matt Hughes. Harvey Field has moved to fullback with Hughes taking his place on the wing. Portsmouth were under pressure defending their try line when Solanki intercepted a Havant pass and raced clear down the length of the field but was eventually tackled just inside the 5 metre line. However he had the presence of mind to offload the ball to Matt Hughes who had followed up his break and he crossed for his first try on his maiden appearance for the 1’s. The conversion missed and the score was now 24-20 on 52 minutes.

Liam Avis then came off to be replaced by Adam Parks-Dare in the front row. Shortly after this, Louis Bristow came off with a bruised neck. He was replaced in the second row by Ryan Bosher. Havant then added to their score following a good run by their backs. The try was converted taking the score to 31-20 on 68 minutes. Up till now Portsmouth had given an excellent account of themselves but the effort that had taken was beginning to tell. Havant then scored 3 converted tries in quick succession taking the score in the closing minutes to 52-20. Their final score came with a unconverted try and the final whistle went with the score 57-20

Portsmouth had given a very good account of themselves for about 65 minutes, showing great pace with ball in hand and some excellent defensive work. Good runs from skipper Beesley saw him taking on the opposition at every opportunity with Will Dalziel putting in a man of the match performance, both in attack and defence. I know this pitch is not to everyone’s taste but it does seem to suit our backs. They look very quick and dangerous in attack. The forwards also played their part despite being up against a much bigger and heavier pack. There will surely be some sore bodies waking up tomorrow. The whole squad should rightly feel very proud of their efforts today.

As a result of today’s fixture, Portsmouth slip down 1 place to 11th. Trojans have taken our place with a better bonus point tally. It just shows the importance of bonus points, they have 4 to our 2. Next week sees Portsmouth at home to Guernsey 2’s. They are just 3 places above us having won 2 games to our 1.

TEAM
LIAM AVIS, BRAD ATKINS, ANT FOOKS
JAMES HEBBARD, LOUIS BRISTOW
SAM FOSTER, HENRI DAVIES, AARON BEESLEY(C)
GEORGW WRIGHT, JAS SOLANKI
CONNOR CHARLTON, SAM OLIE, WILL DALZIEL, HARVEY FIELD
ALI MACDONALD,
BENCH=ADAM PARKS-DARE. RYAN BOSHER, MATT HUGHES

Portsmouth v Trojans, Saturday 12th October 2024, Counties 1 Hampshire League

The day was proceeded by a Luncheon in memory of Peter Golding, Dick Tyrell and Keven Ricketts. Their families were present along with about 70 former and current club members. Excellent food was provided by Club Chef Jimmy Martin who always provides for the Club Lunches. Jimmy is a Club member and former 1st xv prop.
Trojans got the game underway and Portsmouth gathered deep in their 22 and went onto the attack straight away. For the next 5-10 minutes play was confined to the 22’s. with Portsmouth being the more dominant. Eventually Portsmouth were penalised for not releasing after the tackle. The kick was in front of the posts and an easy kick gave them a 0-3 lead after about 8 minutes. From the restart Portsmouth took play deep into the Trojan’s 22 where a penalty against them saw flyhalf Matt Higgins line up a kick at goal which he converted making the score 3 apiece after about 12 minutes.

From the restart Trojans set up an attack and worked the ball towards the home side try line eventually crossing to score. This was converted giving them a 3-10 lead on 20 minutes. This seemed to wake up Portsmouth and they set about their task with renewed effort. Portsmouth then won a penalty and elected to kick to touch giving them a lineout about 6-7 metres from the try line. A good catch and drive saw Aarron Beesley drive his way over. Again Higgins was on target with his conversion from out wide bringing the scores level again at 10-10 with about 25 minutes on the clock.

Portsmouth had a chance to take the lead but the ball carrier tried to score himself when a better option might have been a pass inside to a supporting player. Portsmouth then had to take off Vinnie Jefferies following a knock to his back. He was replaced by Matt Hoban. Portsmouth possession inside the Trojans half saw them spin the ball at pace across the backs with Connor Charlton racing from his wing to the other side to take a pass and continue the move with a good pass to scrum half George Wright who raced away to score under the posts. Higgins was again on target and Portsmouth now led 17-10 with about 6 minutes left of the half. Portsmouth were enjoying greater territory and looked more threatening with ball in hand. The forwards were also giving a very good account of themselves. Another attack by the home side saw the ball go loose and Trojans put the ball in touch as the half ended with the score 17-10.

The second half got underway and Portsmouth soon added to their score when a ball was worked through Aaron Beesely who made good ground before passing inside with the ball eventually in the hands of Matt Hoban who sped through to score under the posts. Again Higgins was on target with the conversion taking their lead to 24-10 with 44 minutes played. Shortly after this an intercept by Bryn Rainford saw Portsmouth set up another attack with the ball passed to Matt Higgins who passed to Beesley who scored under the posts. Higgins was again on target and they now led 31-10. This was also their 4th try so a bonus point score. Connor Charlton then came off to be replaced by Cam McGuigan on the wing.

With Trojans getting a bit desperate they threw out a pass which prop Liam Avis quickly responded to and he raced away, as only props do, to score out wide. Yet again Higgins was on target with his conversion taking the score to 38-10. Trojans weren’t done yet and they managed set up a maul to score close to the posts with a converted try taking the score to 38-17. Portsmouth though had the final say with a try scored by Ant Fooks out wide, this time Higgins was not able to convert so the score was now 43-17. This was Higgins first miss from 1 penalty and 5 tries. SIMON. The final whistle went shortly after. This was Portsmouth’s first win this season in league matches and was much deserved. Quick ball saw the backs perform as we know they can and it was good to do so with a decent crowd.

This win sees Portsmouth climb up the table to 10th place. Next week sees Portsmouth travel to Havant 2’s on their all weather pitch. Havant are so far undefeated in this league.

TEAM
LIAM AVIS, BRAD ATKINS, ANT FOOKS
BRYN RAINFORD, VINNIE JEFFERIES
HENRI DAVIES, LIAM GLAZEBROOK AARON BEESELY
GEORGE WRIGHT, MATT HIGGINS
WILL DALZIEL, SAM OLIE, LEO WALL, CONNOR CHARLTON
BRAD JEWER

BENCH
LEE CHANDLER, MATT HOBAN, CAM MCGUIGAN

Portsmouth v Basingstoke, Saturday 28th September 2024, Counties 1 Hampshire League

Portsmouth got the game underway and Basingstoke took the game straight back to the visitors. With only a few minutes on the clock Portsmouth lost second row Jordan Cracknell with a shoulder injury following a big tackle on his opposite number. Will Dalziel went on in his place. For a while play was taking place between the 22’s but eventually following a penalty against Basingstoke Jas Solanki slotted a good kick to give Portsmouth a 0-3 lead.

The Portsmouth backs looked dangerous when they got the ball with Luke Simmons from fullback showing good pace but unfortunately their opportunities were rather restricted. Basingstoke had a very big pack and made Portsmouth work hard for their chances. With about 30 minutes gone Basingstoke were able to cross for the first try of the match and take a 5-3 lead. The Portsmouth scrum were beginning to give a better account of themselves and this gave the 3’s a better chance to show their paces. From good possession the visitors set up a series of pick and goes and eventually the ball was spun to the backs and Solanki ran across the pitch selling dummies until he stepped inside one player and crossed for a well taken try. He was also on target with the conversion and they took a 10-5 lead. The half time whistle went shortly after.

The second half got underway with Basingstoke putting the visitors under pressure but Portsmouth managed to hold them out with good defence. Luke Simmons then had to come off with hamstring problems and he was replaced by Cam McGuigan. Aaron Beesley then came off and he was replaced by Adam Parks-Dare. Basingstoke took advantage of these changes and from a line out close to the Portsmouth try line they managed to drive over for a converted try taking the score to 12-10 on 65 minutes. This was followed shortly after by two more try’s taking the score to 26 – 10.

With Basingstoke making changes to their pack Portsmouth seemed to lift their game with Beesley now back on and began to get some good 3’s moves going. Bryn Rainford then had to come off so Adam Parks-Dare went back on. With some hard work Portsmouth were able to get the ball out wide to Connor Charlton who crossed for their second try which Solanki converted taking the score to 26-17. This seemed to give Portsmouth a second wind and they put real pressure on the Basingstoke line but their only reward was a penalty which Solanki again converted taking the score to 26-20 as the final whistle went.

This was a game that Portsmouth could have won, they played well in patches but couldn’t sustain it. The forwards were up against a heavier pack but at times pushed them off the ball. If Portsmouth could get an 80 minute performance of good rugby they could compete with most clubs. This result gave Portsmouth their first losing bonus point but still sees them bottom of the table with Bognor above them without a win but on 3 losing bonus points.

There are no games next week so a chance for those injured today and previously to hopefully get better to give the coaches a good squad to select from. Their next opponent is Trojans at Rugby Camp. 3.00pm kick off.

TEAM
LIAM AVIS, BRAD ATKINS, ANT FOOKS
JORDAN CRACKNELL, BRYN RAINFORD
VINNIE JEFFERIES, HENRI DAVIES, AARON BEESLEY(C)
GEORGE WRIGHT, JAS SOLANKI
CONNOR CHARLTON, STEWART DAVIES, SAM OLIE, LEO WALL
LUKE SIMMONS

BENCH
ADAM PARKS-DARE, WILL DALZIEL, CAM MCGUIGAN

Portsmouth v Gosport & Fareham, Saturday 7th September 2024

Portsmouth travelled to Gosport for this first League fixture of the new season.

Gosport kicked off and Portsmouth soon found them selves under pressure. Portsmouth gave a few penalties away which didn’t help their cause and soon found themselves 3-0 down after about 3 minutes. From the restart Portsmouth made inroads into the Gosport half through Fooks, but eventually Gosport got the ball back and pressed the Portsmouth line. Another penalty awarded to Gosport saw their lead increase to 6-0 after about 13 minutes. Gosport then had another chance to increase their lead with a penalty but the kick went wide.

Portsmouth were defending their line when a loose ball got picked up by Gosport and they just had to drop on the ball for the first try of the match taking their lead to 13-0. Portsmouth managed to work themselves into the Gosport half but suddenly there was a bit of an altercation between the forwards which resulted in a penalty awarded to Portsmouth. This resulted in a 5 metre lineout which they were unable to take advantage of after Aaron Beesley was tackled into touch. Portsmouth were now putting pressure on the Gosport line but just could not finish of with a score and eventually the half time whistle went with the score still 13-7.

The second half got underway with neither team able to exert any real control and the game became rather scrappy and disjointed. Portsmouth then lost Stewart Davies having taken a big hit in the first half. His place was taken by Matt Higgins. This was followed by Lee Chandler coming off to be replaced by Ryan Bosher. He went into the second row and Sam Foster moved the back row. A light drizzle was now falling making the ball a bit difficult to handle. Some good defensive work by Portsmouth kept their line intact. Brad Atkins then had to come off after taking a knock and he was replaced by Vinnie Jones who went to prop with Fooks moving to hooker.

Portsmouth then had their best moment when, from a Gosport attack in the Portsmouth 22, Hywel Gronow anticipated a Gosport pass and intercepting, caught the ball raced away to score under the posts as he outpaced the opposition. He then had to convert his own try which took the score to 13-7 with about 10 minutes remaining. This seemed to wake up Portsmouth as they realised that another converted try would seal their first win. However, despite their efforts this failed to materialise and instead yet another penalty to Gosport saw them convert taking the score to 16-7 as the final whistle went and with it a chance of at least a losing bonus point.

Gosport had a very big heavy pack which put the Portsmouth forwards under pressure. With the backs struggling to make any real inroads and a few dropped passes made their task harder than it should have been. 2 scoring chances were missed which also cost them dearly. All in all this was a rather scrappy match between 2 average teams. Despite this there were probably more positives than negatives for the coaches to work on. This is also the first time this team has played together. Next week sees the 1’s at home to Ellingham & Ringwood who lost to Sandown & Shanklin 29-22.

TEAM
FOOKS, ATKINS, AVIS
PINHORNE, FOSTER
CHANDLER, GLAZEBROOK, BEESLEY
MCGUIGAN, GRONOW
CHARLTON, DAVIES, OLIE, WALL
JEWER

BENCH
JEFFERIES, BOSHER, HIGGINS.

Portsmouth v Eastbourne, Saturday 27th.April, Papa John Cup-Quarter Final

Portsmouth travelled to Eastbourne for this Cup Quarter Final. The teams were fairly well matched with Eastbourne finishing their league in 6th.place and Portsmouth finishing theirs in 5th. Eastbourne had scored more points than Portsmouth but had a worse points difference having conceeded more. The journey proved to be anything but straightforward as the main road at Lancing was closed to traffic and although there were diversion signs the surrounding roads were pretty gridlocked. It took ages to clear the diversion which didn’t help the mindset of the players. Once through it was a pretty straightforward run.

It was a grey blustery day which threatened rain but the start was O.K. Portsmouth had to make a very late change when Stewart Davies was forced to withdraw as he had been called in for work. His place was taken by Brad Jewer who was originally selected at fullback. Matt Pilbeam came off the bench to play No 15.

Eastbourne kicked off and soon showed their intent when they pounced on a Portsmouth error and despite a good tackle on the ball carrier he was able to ship the ball on and they scored under the posts. With the conversion good they took a 7-0 lead with about 3 minutes gone. The next 15 minutes or so saw the game played out between the 22’s. A series of penalties against Eastbourne saw Portsmouth eventually take a kick at goal through Matt Pilbeam. He was on target so the score was now 7-3 with about 15 minutes gone. Eastbourne then managed to run in 3 unconverted tries due mainly to some rather lack lustre tackling taking the score to 22-3. During this period Portsmouth had Lee Chandler yellow carded for not retreating 10 mts. One bright bit of Portsmouth play came towards the end of the first half when the ball was passed to Connor Charlton who managed to step out of one tackle and evade two or three others to eventually score under the posts. Pilbeam converted and the score was now 22-10. Portsmouth then had Elliott Worrall taken off with and ankle injury and his place was taken by Finn Parry, making a welcome return after a lengthy injury period. The rain had by now started and was making handling difficult especially with the grass being rather long and getting very wet.
The half time whistle went with the score 22-10 to the home side.

The second half started with Portsmouth losing Lee Chandler with a leg injury and his place was taken by Will Dalziel. Shortly after the re-start Portsmouth then worked their best move of the match when they caught the ball deep in their half and the ball went through several pairs of hand, with backs and forwards combining well as they got close to the Eastbourne try line but s they closed in on the try line Eastbourne managed to tackle the ball player who then got penalised for failing to release the ball thus enabling the home side to clear their lines. Sam Olie made a great run from his own 22 deep into the opposition 22 before being stopped. Shortly after this there was a bit of ‘handbags’ between Will Dalziel and an Eastbourne player which resulted in both players being yellow carded. Eastbourne then scored the first try of the second half taking the score to 27-10. almost straight after that score they then managed a converted try taking the score to 34-10.

Portsmouth then lost Hwyel Gronow with a groin strain so Harvey Field went on. Portsmouth then managed a score of their own with Finn Parry finishing off a good move to score close to the posts but the conversion missed and the score was now 34-15. The final score of the afternoon came when Eastbourne kicked rather aimlessly upfield and with no one covering it they were able to run in to score close to the posts. The conversion missed and the score was now 39-15. The final whistle went shortly after.

This was a very disappointing performance by Portsmouth bearing in mind some of their recent games. In the main it was tackling that let them down but they also seemed to lack any desire to perform well. There was also too much rather aimless kicking with no real follow up. There were a few players who tackled and ran well but they were in the minority unfortunately. Perhaps it is the Cup itself as if you believe reports in the press, there are more teams withdrawing than taking part. On the whole though this has been a pretty good season bearing in mind injuries and availability. Compared with a few seasons ago we have improved very well and on a plus note the number of Colts used has be very successful and must bode well for the future.

Anyway enjoy your summer break and come back refreshed for a new season.

TEAM
PHILL GILLILAND, BRAD ATKINS, ADAM PARKS-DARE
ELLOITT WORRALL, BRYN RAINFORD
VINNY JEFFERIES, LEE CHANDLER, DAN SPENCER
RENZO MELVILLE-DELANY, HWYEL GRONOW
CONNOR CHARLTON, BRAD JEWER, SAM OLIE, LEO WALL
MATT PILBEAM

BENCH
FINN PARRY, JORDAN CRACKNELL, WILL DALZIEL, TOM BARKER, HARVEY FIELD

Portsmouth vs Gosport & Fareham, Saturday 20th April, Papa John Cup – 2nd round

This is the third meeting this season between these two teams. At present it stands at 1 victory each (League matches) so the winner of this Cup match will have the bragging rights. The squad Portsmouth put out today contains several Colts, among which is this year’s Captain and fly half Hywel Gronow. His father is Matt Gronow, former 1st XV winger and prolific try scorer remembered best by the older Club members.

Portsmouth got the game underway and Gosport soon set out their intentions with a series of attacks on the Portsmouth try line. However good defence kept them at bay. Gradually, Portsmouth began to work their way upfield and were soon setting up attacks of their own. As so often happens, the team that defends for a period then sets up an attack that results in a try. Following a penalty against Gosport for a high tackle Portsmouth kicked to touch and gained a 5 metre lineout. This results in a good catch and drive which sees Portsmouth score the first try of the match through No.8 Matt Hoban. The conversion by Lee Chandler hit the post and bounced back out so the score was 5-0 with about 20 minutes gone.

With the game swinging between the 22’s Portsmouth then lost scrum half Harry Drew with a recurrance of a previous injury to his knee. His place was taken by Matt Higgins. A penalty against Portsmouth saw Gosport kick to touch giving them a lineout close to the Portsmouth try line. Pressure from Gosport eventually saw them cross for their first try taking the score to 5-5 after about 30 minutes. Adam Parks-Dare then gave way to Liam Avis who took his place in the front row. A penalty from almost in front of the Portsmouth posts gave Gosport a chance to take the lead but the kick went wide.

A penalty against Gosport gave the home side a good attacking opportunity and it was Liam Avis, making a welcome return after a rib injury, who crossed for their second try, this time converted by Chandler and giving Portsmouth a 12-5 advantage, Just as half time was approaching Gosport hit back with an unconverted try taking the score to 12-10. The half time whistle went shortly after.

The second half started with Portsmouth making some changes. Matt Pilbeam came on at fullback to replace Brad Jewer who moved to the wing to replace Connor Charlton who came off. Liam Glazebrook came off to be replaced by Dan Spencer on the back row. Shortly after Lee Chandler came off to be replaced by Matt Hoban and then Portsmouth lost Bryn Rainford to a yellow card for a dangerous tackle.

Taking advantage of Portsmouth being down to 14 players Gosport,from a penalty, set up a 5m lineout and drove over for their third try, which was converted, taking the score to 12-17 with about 65 minutes gone. It was then Gosport’s turn to have a player yellow carded which turned out to be former Portsmouth player Tim Snowden. Matt Higgins then came off to be replaced by Dan gates who had come off earlier. He replaced Sam Olie who moved to scrum half and Gates returned to the centre.

With both teams vying for territory it was Portsmouth who gained the upper hand and managed to set up a forward drive which resulted in the scoring a try through Matt Hoban. Matt Pilbeam took the conversion and that put the home side in front at 19-17. The game got even more intense when Gosport were awarded a penalty which they converted gving them a 19-20 lead. Vinnie Jefferies then came on to replace Bryn Rainford who had served his 10 minutes but wasn’t coming back on.

With about 9 minutes left the game was getting very tense with both sides trying to gain the upper hand. Gosport had a chance to retake the lead when they intercepted a pass but the player couldn’t hold the ball and it bounced out of his grasp. Eventually it was left to Portsmouth’s No.10 Hywel Gronow to take the game by the scruff off its neck as he made a great break around his 22 and showed great pace as he raced away from the defenders. He then lost his balance when his studs got caught in the grass and he fell to the ground. He was able to fall on his back looking for support which arrived in the form of Brad Jewer who had been following him, he was able to pass the ball to him and Jewer raced away from oncoming opponents to score under the posts. Undoubtedly the try of the match. With Matt Pilbeam on target with the kick, Portsmouth took the lead 26-20 and the final whistle went as the ball crossed the cross bar – much to the delight of Portsmouth players and supporters alike. This had been a typical fiesty derby /cup match with neither side giving any quarter.
The result of this win is a trip to Eastbourne for their next match this coming Saturday.

Overheard from a Portsmouth supporter standing behind the home side replacement bench, “That must be the worst set of haircuts ever seen!” reference to the colts and former colts waiting to go on.

On a more personal note, I would like to thank Keith Harrington for operating the score board for me for a few years. Unfortunately he is now unable to carry on doing this due to health problems and not as some suspect due to the barracking from the balcony!. Graham Medland helped me out for todays game but as he also arranges the lunches it is not really a viable option. Therefore I am asking for a volunteer to carry out this small but important task for the new season. It only involves putting up the score as I put out everything before the game and clear it all away after. I await a flood of offers!.

TEAM
ANT. FOOKS, BRAD ATKINS, ADAM PARKS-DARE
BRYN RAINFORD, ELLIOTT WORRALL
LIAM GLAZEBROOK, LEE CHANDLER, MATT HOBAN
HARRY DREW, HYWEL GRONOW
CONNOR CHARLTON, DAN GATES, SAM OLIE, LEO WALL
BRAD JEWER

BENCH
LIAM AVIS, DAN SPENCER, EDDIE FRAZER, VINNIE JEFFERIES, HARVEY FIELD
MATT PILBEAM, MATT HIGGINS

Portsmouth v Petersfield, Saturday 6th March 2024

It hardly seemed possible that this was the final match in our League for this season, where has the time gone? Portsmouth had to make quite a few changes from the usual side, due to unavailability/injury. Most notable of the changes was Ian French starting in the front row and Greg Hoolihan starting at hooker. Ian French was all set for a leisurely trip with the 2’s to play Ventnor on the Isle of Wight. Accompanying him was his son Joe. He then got a call from the 1’s to play for them against Petersfield to which he said O.K.. He doesn’t train and at 47 years that is quite reasonable, he just makes the occasional game for the Vets. He has been called on before to be a replacement for the 1’s which usually only means short spells. Greg retired last season at 36 to help out with family duties but has always kept himself pretty fit by entering various sporting activities which include running, swimming and cycling. With all sorts of rumours flying about that Petersfield wanted to score in excess of 80 points to hit 1000 points for the season this had the potential to be a right old battle.

With the wind at their backs Portsmouth got the game underway and Petersfield soon set out their aim with a series of attacks into the Portsmouth half but Portsmouth held out with some good defence. With about 5 Petersfield players who had previously played for Portsmouth this was always going to be an ‘interesting match’. Portsmouth set up a good attack and as the final pass headed towards their winger, a Petersfield player slapped the ball down thus getting a yellow card and giving Portsmouth a penalty. Portsmouth were able to set up a good move into the ‘Field’ 22 and as the ball was spun through several pairs of hands it finished with Connor Charlton who had plenty to do but he managed to get through tackles and although he was help close to the try line he was able to power over for the first try of the match, much to the delight of Portsmouth players and spectators. The conversion missed and the led 5-0 with about 10 minutes on the clock.

The lead was short lived however as ‘Field soon hit back with a try of their own, that conversion also missed so the score was now 5 a’piece. A blow to Portsmouth was an injury to their skipper Ollie Simpson who it turned out had done serious damage to his knee. His place was taken by Dan Spencer. Play was held up for quite a while as Simpson was being treated prior to be stretchered off. Petersfield then added a converted try taking the score to 5-12. From the restart ‘Field then added a third try although there was a forward pass involved. The score was now 5-19 and that score remained till the half time whistle.

The second half started with Ian French being rested and his place taken by Ben Gordon. Shortly after the restart more problems for Portsmouth loomed with an injury to No.8 Aaron Beesley. He was unable to take any further part in the match so Ian French went back on. That meant that Portsmouth had now lost their 2 most potent ball carriers. Fooks was moved from prop to hooker with Greg Hoolihan moving to No.8. Another ‘Field try saw the score at 5-24.

The ‘Field backs were showing their strength with some good pace and handling and soon added a 5th.try taking the score to 5-31. Portsmouth were not giving up and a good run by Tim Rollett to play deep into the ‘Field half before he was stopped. This seemed to spur Portsmouth on and a good move involving all the backs ended with Charlton fighting his was over for his second try taking the score to 10-31. Another ‘Field converted try saw the score move to 10-38.

It was then Portsmouth’s turn to show their capabilities when from a lineout Bryn Rainford took a great catch and charged upfield for about 15 metres before offloading. Brad Jewer then made good ground before offloading to Tim Rollett who finished off the move with his first try. This took the score to 15-38. Another ‘Field try took the score to 15-45. A lineout to ‘Field about 5 metres from the Portsmouth try line saw them drive over to score their final try taking the score to 15-50 as the conversion missed and the final whistle went.

With Petersfield having 4 players who had been playing National 2 last season and a back line of good speed, if at time a bit too greedy for their own good, this was always going to be a hard task but Portsmouth showed great heart and solid defence and should be proud of their efforts, especially as this was in many ways an untried team. Olie Avis at 10 again put on a good display and seemed comfortable with ball in hand, always looking for space.

The result sees Portsmouth finish the League in 5th place on 52 points. The frustrating thing is that with a couple of matches recently that should have been wins they missed the 4th place which was taken by Gosport on 64 points. Next week sees the Vets take on Tottonians in the Vets Cup semi-final at Rugby Camp. On 20th April Portsmouth are again in action in the Papa John Cup when they take on Gosport & Fareham again at Rugby Camp. This will be the 3rd.meeting this season with the result at 1 a’piece. Please try and get to both matches if you can. 3.00 K.O. for both games.
Petersfield and Andover are both promoted to Regional 2 South Central.

TEAM
IAN FRENCH, GREG HOOLIHAN, ANT.FOOKS
BRYN RAINFORD, OLLIE SIMPSON
ALEX HIGSON, LEE CHANDLER, AARON BEESLEY
CAM MCGUIGAN, OLIE AVIS
CONNOR CHARLTON, DAN GATES, BRAD JEWER, TIM ROLLETT
TOM SANDERSON

BENCH
BEN GORDON, DAN SPENCER, SAM OLIE