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