Under 15s through to county cup final

The continuing awful weather forced a last minute change of venue for the already postponed under 15s semi-final between Gosport & Fareham & U.S. Portsmouth. A huge thanks go out to the U.S.P. guys for being able to host the match on their 3G facilities. Preparation for the 2 teams couldn't have been more different. Gosport & Fareham - very little rugby since before Christmas, playing on a largely unfamiliar surface with continued injury absences & 4 players stepping back in after illness / injury. U.S.P. - rightly taking full advantage of continued use of their excellent facilities during the winter months to continue their progression in what's arguably been their best season at this age group. With Gos also giving up the home 'advantage' all the momentum seemed to be with U.S. Portsmouth.

From the pre-match warm up, it was clear the Gos lads were all tuned in & ready to go, even after being initially afraid to step onto the snooker table finish of the 3G pitch. Such was the confusion over the lack of holes & hills that we thought were part of a rugby pitch design that Cam Holling declared the pitch smelled like toast ... something coach Richie immediately tested!

Kick off came & it was clear that U.S. Portsmouth clearly wanted this game with quick reactions in any breakdown situation forcing a few turnovers. Despite this, Gosport took advantage of frequent U.S. attempts to gain territory from the boot, counter attacking & taking the lion's share of the territory battle. Scoring opened with scrum half Matt taking the glory for strong rucking & quick possession in the U.S. 22. Dids coming close with the 2 pointer.

The momentum stayed with Gosport for the rest of the match with all players doing at least their own fair share of the work. The halftime score was 17 - 0, further tries being added by our resident snail Jake M & from Chris in his first match back after concussion.

After half time, 2 more tries to the good & the introduction of the rest of the substitutions, a replacement U.S.P. prop broke his nose in an accidental collision with a teammate & uncontested scrums were ordered. This favoured the home side considerably & after conceding a scrum deep in our own half, the unpressured possession saw some deft handling out wide to go over for a U.S.P. score.

U.S.P. backs straightened & heads lifted, but a fine restart caused indecision in the receiving team & a loose pass was intercepted & run immediately back in by Stevie C. This was quickly followed by another then before time, an 8th try for the away lads.

Well done to ALL players. It was a great team display with every payer putting in an outstanding display. Special mentions to Ben & Wurly for stepping into the team from the Saxons & putting in strong performances. Another special mention to the outstanding referee who is a rugby teacher at P.G.S. Thought he majority of the penalties went against Gos (we deserved 'em) the referee was very, very good.

Though every player did well, Man of the match goes to Dids for his intelligent tactical display. Well done all.

Scorers
Matt John
Jake Moseley x 2
Chris Wallis x 2
Cameron Holling
Stephen Cheatle
James Rowe

Next stop, New Milton, played at Petersfield on county finals day, 23rd March.