Weekend Review 14th/15th October 2023

By Simon Newsham

It was a tough weekend for the senior men, the firsts went down 18-13 at Andover bringing an end to their excellent winning start to the season (see Jim Dixon’s match report).

At Rugby Camp the Casuals suffered the agony of a last minute defeat to Andover 2s going down 21-27 whilst the Third XV also at home lost narrowly by eight points to twelve against Fareham Heathens.

No fixtures for the Valkyries last weekend but this Sunday league leaders the first xv are away at Chipping Sodbury in NC1 South West E. Meanwhile the seconds will host Trojans Ladies at Rugby Camp.

Some of the Mini section went to Alton for a coaching session, massive thanks to Alton for hosting us on a glorious sunny morning.

I only have two reports from the juniors and that was the U13s who went away to Eastleigh and despite going down by nine tries to five. Dexter Oliver was player of the match for the second game running. A big mention to Samuel Hunter who has really come on and put in some amazing tackles. The U13s are looking forward to a rematch at Norway Road.

And on Sunday the U14s hosted Ellingham & Ringwood in a friendly fixture.

With a very experimental side and lots of players playing in new positions, the home team ran out 73-12 winners. A real credit to the adaptability of the boys.

11 tries in total, with ?Hat trick? Henry getting voted man of the match by the opposition. Finley, Seth, Ashton, Zachary, Michael and Nathan also getting over the line – backed up by the boots of Lenny and Ashton.

This weekend it’s a big one at home, local rivals Havant ii come to Rugby Camp, there is a lunch available beforehand where the menu is Steak and Ale Pie with vegetables and herby roast potatoes or a Sweet Potato and Vegetable pie. Dessert is Sticky Toffee Pudding with custard. Please contact Graham Medland on 07952994352 or gmedland@yahoo.com.

The Casuals are away to Havant 3’s KO 3pm and the Vets have their first outing with a trip to Fawley Veterans, KO 2 pm

Andover v Portsmouth, Saturday 14th October 2023, Counties 1 Hampshire

Match report by Jim Dixon

Andover 18 – 13 Portsmouth

Portsmouth travelled to Andover for their 5th League match. Not the easiest pitch to play on with a slope running to length of the pitch towards the clubhouse. Portsmouth had to make changes to the side that played last week and had a completely new front row. They also welcomed Kallen Wilke for his debut 1st XV appearance having impressed last week for the 2’s.
It was a colder day than last week with a stuff breeze blowing down the pitch.
Portsmouth lost the toss and had to play down hill in the first half. With the benefit of the slope Portsmouth soon had Andover defending their line. A couple of penalty kicks ,the first of which just fell short of the posts and the second actually hit the upright but bounced back into the field of play but Portsmouth were able to secure possession and a good drive from Finn Parry saw him cross for their first try. Morgan was on target with the conversion and they led 0 – 7. Andover were soon on the attack and eventually a penalty saw them close the gap to 3 – 7. Andover, through their pack, were able to control possession and a high tackle by Portsmouth saw them close the gap to 6 – 7. Portsmouth were soon back on the attack when full back, Brad Jewer fielded a kick and side stepping his opponent, he set of on a good run and linked well with Harvey Field who also made good ground but was eventually tap tackled after a run of about 20 metres. Portsmouth were penalised for not releasing after the tackle. they were putting some good moves together but just could not make that final breakthrough. Better tackling could have prevented at least one try. Eventually the half time whistle went.

The second half started with Brad Jewer coming off to be replaced by Harry Drew, He went to No.9 with Tom Sanderson going to No.15. Lee Chandler also came off to be replaced by Henri Davies at No.7 and Ryan Bosher replaced Finn Parry in the 2nd.row. Andover now with the benefit of the slope set up an attack which went almost the length of the field and resulted in them scoring a try under the posts. The conversion was good and the lead was now 13 – 7. From a line-out Portsmouth lost the ball but Andover were penalised for being offside. Morgan took a kick at goal which was successful and the gap was now 13 -10. A good run from Portsmouth saw them take play from one 22 to the other but again just couldn’t make that final break through. A scoring chance by Andover came to nothing through some good defensive work by Portsmouth who eventually won a penalty enabling Morgan to put in a very good touch kick into the Andover half. Portsmouth then lost prop Liam Avis to a yellow card. From that penalty Andover set up a line-out just inside the Portsmouth 22 and a quick throw to the front saw them run through virtually unopposed for a try out wide. The conversion missed and the score was now 18 – 10. With time running out for Portsmouth they were awarded a penalty which Morgan was able to convert making the score 18 – 13. The final whistle went shortly after with some frustration from Portsmouth as they could have won this encounter if they had made the most of their chances. They did however get a bonus point for being within 7 points of Andover. The main difference between the two side was the Andover pack who were heavier than Portsmouth. That’s not to say that the Portsmouth pack were overwhelmed, far from it. Portsmouth’s backs were also in good form with Jewer, Charlton and debut maker Kallen Wilke showing up well. In the forwards Finn Parry also had a good game and seems to be enjoying life in the second row rather than prop and his 2nd row partner Foster also showed some pace with ball in hand. One of the problems of today’s match was the rather constant complaining to the referee which rather turned him against Portsmouth.
Today’s result sees Portsmouth slip to 5th. place just behind Andover who started the day in 3rd. Next week’s opponents Havant 2nd’s leapfrog into 3rd. after their away win against Eastleigh 30 – 36. Petersfield stay on top with Gosport & Fareham 2nd.

TEAM: LIAM AVIS, GREG HOOLIHAN, ANT.FOOKS.
SAM FOSTER, FINN PARRY,
AARON BEESLEY, LEE CHANDLER, ELLIOTT WORRALL.
TOM SANDERSON, SIMON MORGAN.
CONNOR CHARLTON, DAN GATES, KALLEN WILKE, HARVEY FIELD.
BRAD JEWER.
BENCH: RYAN BOSHER, HENRI DAVIES, HARRY DREW.

Portsmouth Man of the Match

Kallen Wilke

Weekend Review 7th/8th October 2023

By Simon Newham

The First xv left it late against Eastleigh at Rugby Camp (see Jim Dixons report) but it was a fantastic end to a second period which we spent entirely in Eastleighs half of the pitch.

The Casuals won 76-0 away to Eastleigh with tries from, Ryan Bateman, Kallen Wilke, Hywel Gronow, Harry Drew, Henrie Thorne all with a try each. Henry Gill and Sam Witt with a brace and a hat-trick for Matt Austin. Hywel Gronow also added eight conversions, as one of the Colts stepping up in the second xv along with Henrie Thorne, Sam Witt and Gronow himself played well. All three stepped up for their first senior game and they all put in a great shift. Well done, it’s great to see the transition between colts and seniors gelling together nicely.

I’d love to give you a report from the Under 10’s at New Milton except we didn’t make it there. Thanks to a car malfunction on the M27, many thanks to Dave Thomas for assisting with the rescue of wife, child, dog and gazebo. I believe the U10s had a great day and are looking forward to their next tournament.

Instead of being at New Milton I got the chance to watch the Valkyries at home to Ellingham & Ringwood who romped home in a 76-0 win. Hat-tricks for centre Georgie Harris and wing Katie Wadeson while full back Nikki Buckingham bagged herself two tries. Also on the scoresheet were fly-half Nancy Lismore, No.8 Zoe Jones, Keeta Rowlands and Ciera Forry all with one each.

The Valks second xv travelled to Swanage and Wareham (thanks for the toot toot from the bus as you passed us on the hard shoulder) where a valiant performance saw them just edged out by ten points to seven. Prop Niamh Bevan scored our only try which was converted by Meg Wright.

The Colts compounded Eastleighs miserable weekend of results against us with a 54-7 drubbing at Rugby Camp, although it was a friendly fixture it’s still good to get a run of wins together.

U12s match report; What a difference a week makes! U12’s managed to right the wrongs of last week with four outstanding matches at New Milton. Despite losing the first game they found momentum in the second, narrowly missing out on a win against Tottonians but romped home with 2 victories against Romsey and tournament hosts New Milton. Coach Matt says “the squad really were impressive, their hard work, enthusiasm and enjoyment on the pitch was infectious, they firmly showed they are a force to be reckoned with!”

The U13s played United Services in a cup match winning by five tries to four, Dexter Oliver was player of the match, most improved was Matin Javid and Donut of the Day Jack Nickleson.

On Friday night the U14’s welcomed Chichester to Rugby Camp for a cracking game under the new floodlights.

Having not played each other before, neither side knew what to expect. But the action on the pitch did not disappoint.

Played in quarters, Portsmouth won each quarter. Eventually running out 54-10 winners but the scoreline doesn’t do justice to the quality and skill of the Chichester side who tested us in every area of the pitch. Particularly pleasing from a Portsmouth perspective was the variation in which the tries were made and where they were scored. Not to mention an immense defensive effort to frustrate the visitors throughout. Eight tries were scored, Henry with two, Finley, Harry, Seth, Michael, Jake and Shaye one each (with 7/8 successfully converted by Shaye) sent the Portsmouth lads home with deserved smiles on their faces.

Portsmouth v Eastleigh, Saturday 7th October 2023, Counties 1 Hampshire

Portsmouth 31 – 22 Eastleigh

Match Report by Jim Dixon

It was an ideal day for a game of rugby, the sun was out, it was warm with only a gentle breeze blowing down the pitch. There was 1 enforced change to the selected side. Tawanda Matipano had to drop out due to family reasons. His place was taken by Will Dalziel who was moved from the wing to fullback. Harvey Field came off the bench to play on the wing and Brad Jewer was moved from the 2’s to the 1’s bench.
We were all expecting to see a continuation of the last two performances with slick passing and good interplay between backs and forwards but, alas, that didn’t happen. What we had was a rather disjointed performance for the most part with passes not always going to hand or not being held by the recipient. In part this was down to Eastleigh’s defence which was very good. Eastleigh were first on the scoreboard with a converted try after about 6 minutes. Portsmouth were able to reduce that lead with a well taken penalty from between the 10 metre and half way line but into a breeze. Morgan was on target so the score was now 3 – 7. Eastleigh were soon back on the attack and scored their second try out wide but the conversion missed so the score was now 3 – 12. The score was really due to some poor tackling. As the game progressed towards half time Eastleigh set up another attack which resulted in the third converted try taking the lead to 3 – 19. Again a result of poor or no tackling. A good run by prop Adam Parks-Dare saw Portsmouth take play into the visitors 22. A penalty against Eastleigh saw Morgan kick for touch giving Portsmouth a line-out 5 metres from the try line. Portsmouth secured the throw-in and set up a good catch and drive resulting in their first try scored by hooker Bradley Atkins. The score now stood at 10 – 19 after Morgans successful conversion. Aaron Beesley then came on to replace Dan Spencer on the back row. The half time whistle went shortly after.

The second half started with Will Dalziel coming off to be replaced by Brad Jewer. Adam Parks-Dare also come off to be replaced by Liam Avis in the front row. Portsmouth were now beginning to play the style of rugby we wanted to see and a good run took them deep into the visitors half. Eastleigh then got penalised for not releasing after the tackle. From the resultant line-out Portsmouth lost possession but regained it to win another line-out. This time they were penalised for a crooked throw. A penalty against Portsmouth saw Eastleigh increase their lead to 10 – 22 after about 50 minutes. Portsmouth had a great opportunity to close the gap when a good run by Connor Charlton was carried on by Beesley but his final pass was not held and a golden chance went begging, A cross kick by Morgan just failed to find its target giving Eastleigh a 22 drop out. Another chance was missed when Portsmouth lost a line-out close to the Eastleigh try line, enabling them to clear their line. A penalty to Portsmouth saw Morgan place a good touch kick and this time they managed to hold on to the ball which was spun wide and across the pitch with some good inter-passing resulting eventually in Brad Jewer touching down close to the touch line. Morgan was again on target and the score was now 17 – 22. Most of the play was now being carried out in the Eastleigh half. From another Portsmouth line-out Beesley took the ball and crashed through the defence to score close to the posts giving Morgan a straightforward conversion. The score was now 24 – 22 and Portsmouth now had their noses in front, but only just. Lee Chandler then came off with cramp so Will Dalziel went back on in his place. Another good attack by Portsmouth resulted with the ball in Connor Charlton’s hand and he raced through to score out wide. Morgan was again on target and the lead was now 31- 22 and a bonus point for the 4th.try. It also took Eastleigh’s chance of a loosing bonus point away from them. There was still 2 or 3 minutes left so Portsmouth had to be aware not to give any penalties away and make sure their defence was solid. They managed to hold out to secure their 3rd win on the bounce and their 3rd. bonus point win.
Portsmouth played much better in the second half, denying Eastleigh territory and the ball for good periods of play but they did leave at least 3 tries out there which mustn’t happen next week. No.9 Tom Sanderson was awarded MoM by Mo Twells who is sponsoring the award on home matches.
This win sees them slip to 4th place on 15 points as Andover jump ahead of them on points difference but also on 15 points. Andover played Alton and ran out impressive winners 21 – 83. Portsmouth will certainly need to play much better than this next week if they want to keep their winning run going. It is obviously going to be a very hard fought game. Gosport & Fareham beat Bournemouth 2’s 40 – 23 and now move into 2nd place behind Petersfield.

TEAM: PHIL GALLILAND, BRAD ATKINS, ADAM PARKS-DARE.
SAM FOSTER, MAX CLARKE.
DAN SPENCER, ANT.FOOKS,. ELLIOTT WORRALL.
TOM SANDERSON, LEE CHANDLER.
CONNOR CHARLTON, SIMON MORGAN, JOSH HOWELL-WILLIAMS.
WILL DALZIEL.
BENCH: LIAM DAVIS, AARRON BEESLEY, BRAD JEWER.

Weekend review 30th Sept/1st Oct

By Simon Newsham

On Saturday the First XV had a cracking 14 – 42 win at Alton, see Jim Dixons report on the news page.

The Casuals entertained the Isle of Wight narrowly losing 27-32 with the final play of the match. Tries from Aaron Beasley, Ali Macdonald, Scott Weatherhead and Ryan Bosher.

On Sunday The Valkyies were in RFU Intermediate Cup action against Hove who play in Womens Champion SE division two. This is a couple of steps higher up than our ladies. So you can imagine the delight of the Valks coming out on top 31-24 in really close match. A brace of tries from wing Katie Wadeson, one each from Georgie Harris, Meg Jones and a first ever try for second row Amy Hanks was a highlight for the supporters. Two Conversions by Nancy Lismore and one from Chloe Stopard put the girls in the hat for the next round.

The Colts enjoyed a 33-22 win over Petersfield in a spirited encounter at Rugby Camp, they were in command for the majority of the game, I don’t have any scorers but well played to the lads.

In the junior section the U12’s made the short trip to Gosport and Fareham for a tournament. Blighted with absentees they had a tough day at the office losing all 4 pool games and unfortunately had to withdraw at the knock-out stage as the injuries mounted. The coach adds “There’s lots to work on at training on Wednesday and we will build from here”.

The U13’s hosted Tottonians on Sunday morning ending up five points each in a hard fought match, Joshua Daniells impressed for the hosts as did Brayden Dewane, the coveted Donut of The Day was Jack Stoneman.

In the afternoon the U14s also hosted Totts in their first home game of the season and a solid 66-5 victory in a hotly-contested match gave them their second win in a row. Amongst numerous try-scorers, player of the match Rory helped himself to four tries with the score being underlined by the excellent conversion kicking from Lenny.

The U16s travelled to Basingstoke looking to make it two wins from two. Kick off was delayed to allow them to have a proper warm up after arriving late due to a motorway incident. The lads started well but conceded early points, however they stuck to their game plan and ran out 34-36 winners with two tries from Dylan Barnes (on his birthday) and one each for Sam Shepherd, Blake Kerley, Joe Cobby and Josh Witt, Pompeys player of the match was Charlie Bradrick. The win puts them in second place behind Tadley on points difference.

Next Saturday the 1sts host Eastleigh, there will be a pre-match lunch, if you’re thinking of coming along please contact Graham Medland or text on 07952 994352

Alton v Portsmouth, Saturday 30th September 2023, Counties 1 Hampshire

Alton 14 – 42 Portsmouth

Report by Jim Dixon

Portsmouth had to make several changes to last week’s team due to absence and injury although they did have Simon Morgan back for his first League start following treatment on his achilles tendon, a problem that he had from the end of last season.

Portsmouth played into the wind on pitch that no matter which way you ran, always seemed uphill. Alton kicked off and Portsmouth gathered and made a good touch kick. Alton won the resultant line out and kicked the ball towards the Portsmouth goal line but Will Dalziel was able to get back and kick the ball over the dead ball line. This gave Alton a 5 metre scrum and they broke on the blind side and scored the first try close to the posts. The kick was converted and their lead was 7 – 0. From the restart Portsmouth were awarded a penalty for a no arms tackle and Morgan took a kick at goal from just outside the Alton 22 but into the wind which was blowing diagonally across the pitch. He was on target and the score was now 7 – 3 with about 8 minutes on the clock. From the restart Portsmouth set up a good passing movement taking to ball downfield. They then switched to run from left to right and a good move was completed by Will Dalziel who crossed under the posts. Again Morgan was on target with the conversion and Portsmouth now led 7 – 10. Portsmouth were now getting into their stride and a series of handling moves kept them in the Alton half. Alton then managed to get into the Portsmouth half and from a line out they crossed for their 2nd try under the posts which with the conversion saw them regain the lead 14 – 10. Both the Alton tries were really as a result of poor tackling which was annoying as they had been doing well in that department during the half. One or two scoring opportunities where missed by Portsmouth as they kept pressure on the Alton goal line but couldn’t make the final pass hit its target. Portsmouth then had to take Leo Wall off as he had hit his head on the ground in a tackle and he failed his HIA. He was replaced by Arthur Layton. Josh Howell-Williams then made a good break and a neat kick ahead was gathered by Sam Foster who showed good pace for a second row and he crossed out wide for a good score. Again Morgan was on target and Portsmouth now retook the lead 14 – 17 as the half time whistle went shortly after.

Portsmouth got the second half underway with a change in the front row. Phil Galliland was replaced by Adam Parks-Dare. Alton had a chance to level the score with a penalty but the kick missed. A line-out to Alton was over-thrown and picked up by Lee Chandler who passed to Morgan who put in a good touch kick down field. Chandler then had to come off with a knee injury. Dan Spencer took his place. Finn Parry also came off and was replaced by Phil Galliland. A gook kick ahead by Morgan was gathered well by Will Dalziel who showed good pace to run through the opposition and go round and touch down under the posts. Morgan was on target and Portsmouth now lead by 14 -24. More pressure by Portsmouth forced Alton to give away a penalty which Morgan duly converted to take the score to 14 – 27. Shortly after all this Portsmouth had a scrum inside the Alton 22 and No.8 Elliott Worrall crossed for their 4th try giving them a bonus point. Morgan converted and the lead was now 14 – 34. Shortly after this Worrall was again on the scoreboard with his second try. Surprisingly Morgan missed the conversion and the score was now 14 – 39. A brilliant one handed interception by Foster saw him take the ball into the Alton half. Finn Parry then came back on to replace Anthony Fooks. A good run by Brad Atkins which saw him break through 3 tackles eventually came to nothing with the final pass failing to find its target. A fine run, this time by Tom Sanderson saw him make good ground, resulted in a penalty to Portsmouth for offside by Alton. Morgan took the kick which sailed through the posts taking the score to 14 – 42 as the final whistle went. |The Coaches we a bit annoyed at the 2 converted tries Alton score which were really as a result of poor tackling

This was another good show by Portsmouth who kept the momentum of last weeks victory going with more quick and crisp handling and linking between forwards and backs.

Portsmouth also showed good pace on the ball and again Connor Charlton also made some good runs, looking to find gaps if possible. Alex Higson also led the way in how to tackle under the new tackle laws with all his tackles going round the ankles of his opponents. Unfortunately for Portsmouth he is off to Uni next week. Next week should see some of this weeks absentees returning which will make for some hard decisions for the coaches when selecting next weeks team.

Their opponents next week will be Eastleigh who lost today to Trojans 24- 18. Eastleigh are now 9th. place.

Today’s result sees Portsmouth reach the dizzy heights of 3rd place in the league on 10 points. Andover are 4th.also on 10 points but with a slightly bigger points difference. Petersfield still head the table with a 34-5 defeat of Andover. They are on 15 points with Gosport & Fareham 2nd also on 15 points but Petersfield have a better points difference

TEAM: PHIL GALLILAND, BRAD ATKINS, ANTHONY FOOKS.

FINN PARRY, SAM FOSTER.

ALEX HIGSON, LEE CHANDLER, ELLIOTT WORRALL.

TOM SANDERSON, SIMON MORGAN.

CONNOR CHARLTON, LEO WALL, JOSH HOWELL-WILLIAMS, HARVEY FIELD.

WILL DALZIEL

BENCH: ADAM PARKS-DARE, DAN SPENCER, ARTHUR LAYTON

U15’s v Basingstoke

The U15s had their first league game today against Basingstoke at home. An amazing performance and a 37-21 win for the Portsmouth boys. A hat trick for full back Jamie Morgan, two tries by Fly Half Rhys Arnott a try each for Logan Lavery and Max Dixon.

U14’s v East Grinstead, Friendly , Away

The U14’s had their first friendly fixture of the season, travelling to East Grinstead. Where they were welcomed by their chairman who also refereed the match. On the pitch the boys started the season with the same kind of intensity they finished their U13’s campaign. Playing fast, free-flowing rugby and not allowing their opponents any space in defence or attack.

The relentless pressure meant Portsmouth winning 54-0 against a spirited East Grinstead side who never gave up or let their heads drop. Unsurprisingly there were some magnificent performances across the squad, but a special mention has to go to Arthur who the opposition voted player of the match in his very first club rugby match.

There was a sense of poignancy as it is three years since the tragic death of East Grinsteads head coach Police Sergeant Matt Ratana, the club have installed a permanent memorial, silhouette of Matt overlooks the pitches where he continues to watch the games at the club where he was so popular.

Weekend Update 24th-25th September 2023

By Simon Newsham

The first XV hosted Trojans on Saturday watched by a large crowd in the sunshine and ably supported by our U10s who acted as mascots for the day including a coaching session. A comfortable 57-13 victory was racked up with nine tries and nine different scorers. Each home league game will be preceded by a lunch and a different age group of juniors will be guard of honour for the first team.

In other games the Seconds went down 50 points to 16 at Fareham Heathens the Valkyries 2s were postponed when Poole couldn’t raise a side due to illness and injuries. However, the Valks firsts went to Bristol on Sunday to play Dings Crusaders and came away with a 29-29 draw after a last gasp penalty try courtesy of the hosts. The ladies fought back from 29-17 down, tries from Kat Burianova, Katie Wadeson and Nancy Lismore earning the Valkyries valuable points, they are third in NC1 South West (east).

In the junior section the under 13s played a friendly away to Bognor coming out winners by six tries to two. Player of the match was Vincent Thomas, the most improved player was Troy Lawton-Roberts and Donut of the day was Samuel Hunter. Great play Sam.

The U16s went to Romsey and came away with a 24-25 victory, tries from Sam Oldham, Joe Cobby and Blake Kerley plus two Conversions and two penalties by Reggie Dugan sealed their first win in their new division. A great result having been 24 – 13 down with ten minutes to go the boys dug in deep.

Portsmouth v Trojans, Saturday 23rd September 2023, Counties 1 League match

Portsmouth 57-13 Trojans

Match Report by Jim Dixon

Portsmouth came onto the pitch through a tunnel formed by Portsmouth Under 10’s. Games between Portsmouth and Trojans have been close affairs recently and before that they were often our bogey side. Portsmouth had to make a few changes from last week with injuries and a few players crossing the Channel to watch England v Chile. Another noted difference is the recently re-vamped old clubhouse which has a well stocked bar and is open on every match day so that spectators can get drinks more easily than climbing upstairs. This has been led by former player Dave Thomas who is now Club Bar Manager and Events Co-ordinator.

Trojans got proceedings underway and a penalty by Portsmouth gave Trojans and easy 3 points as the kick was almost in front of the posts close to the 22. This was after just a few minutes of play. From the re-start fullback Tawanda Matipano caught the ball and from a good run crossed the line for a try out wide. The conversion just missed but the lead was now 5 – 3 to Portsmouth. This was Tawanda’s debut match for Portsmouth and he didn’t disappoint. He is known to Coaches and team mates as ‘T’ ‘T’ was soon in action again with another good run and a kick through which was followed up by scrum half Tom Sanderson. The ball bounced of an opponent and Sanderson was able to collect and cross for their 2nd try. This time Gareth Davies was on target and the lead was now 12 – 3, Bryn Rainford then had to leave the field with a broken nose to be replaced by Alex Higson. A penalty awarded to Trojans for offside was converted so the gap closed to 12 – 6 with about 20 minutes gone. From a Trojans line out they kicked the ball down field and this was gathered by Portsmouth who then set up a great passing movement involving the 3’s which resulted in Connor Charlton finishing of the move with a try under the posts. Davies was again on target and the lead was now 19 – 6 with about 28 minutes on the clock. Centre Will Dalziel then had to come off with a hamstring strain and he was replaced by Harvey Field. Portsmouth were again on the scoreboard following a good handling movement involving forwards and backs which was finished off by No.7 Lee Chandler dotting down under the posts. Davies was again on target and the score was now 26 – 6. That was Portsmouth’s 4th. try and bonus point with about 5 minutes of the half remaining. Prop Adam Parks-Dare then came off to be replaced by Liam Avis. A penalty to Trojans saw them kick to touch deep in the Portsmouth half but Portsmouth managed to steal the resultant throw in and took play back in to the Trojans 22. Shortly after this Portsmouth lost 2nd.row Finn Pary to a yellow card and the half time whistle went shortly after.

The second half saw Portsmouth playing with the wind behind them. A long kick down field saw Trojans mis-handle and Portsmouth won the resultant line out. From that lineout Portsmouth set up a good catch and drive and No 8 Aaron Beesley .crossed for a try. Davies was again on target and the lead was now 33 – 6. A rather loose pass by Trojans was intercepted by Harvey Field who made good ground before offloading to Josh Howell-Williams who touched down out wide. With the conversion dissecting the posts Portsmouth’s lead was now 40 – 6. All this was while Portsmouth were down to 14 players. Portsmouth were unlucky not to increase that lead when they gathered to ball deep in their half and ‘T’ made good ground before passing to No.9 Sanderson who made further inroads into the opposition half and some more interpassing until the ball was knocked on. Another great scoring movement saw Portsmouth handling the ball well ,linking backs and forwards and eventually No.6 Fooks crossed for a very good team try. The resultant conversion sailed through the posts taking the lead to 47 – 6. Trojans then managed to get deep into Portsmouth territory and they eventually managed to cross for a try close to the posts. Their conversion was good and the score was now 47 – 13. Portsmouth were soon back on the attack and prop Liam Avis crossed for a try out wide. The conversion missed and the score now stood at 52-13. Yet another good passing movement involving backs and forwards eventually resulted in No.12 Dan Gates crossing for a try. The conversion missed and the score was now 57 -13 and the final whistle went shortly after.

This was one of the best performances seen at Rugby Camp for quite a while. The catalyst for this was Portsmouth’s No15 who showed he was very much a team player, always looking to involve players around him. He is a very balance runner with good pace and stepping ability. He seemed to inspire those around him with a lot of confidence and as a result we saw plenty of pace and good handling with the ball being moved quickly. The forwards also acquitted themselves well, especially the front row with Phil Gilliland making good ground when the chance came. It was also very pleasing to see Adam Parks-Dare back in his rightful position. Everyone played an important part in the win and that includes the bench.

This win sees Portsmouth climb up the table to 8th.place on 5 points. Petersfield remain top after their defeat of Alton 102 -0, our opponents next week. Alton are currently bottom but Portsmouth mustn’t take it that this will be an easy game. We all know that teams who have a heavy defeat one week can easily bounce back so we must go with the right attitude.

TEAM: ADAM PARKS-DARE, BRAD ATKINS, PHILGALLILAND,

FINN PARRY, BRYN RAINFORD

ANT FOOKS, LEE CHANDLER, AARON BEESLEY.

TOM SANDERSON, GARETH DAVIES.

CONNOR CHARLTON, DAN GATES, JOSH HOWELL-WILLIAMS, WILL DALZIEL.

TAWANDA MATIPANO.

BENCH: LIAM AVIS, ALEX HIGSON, HARVEY FIELD.