Draw was a fair result.

The weather couldn't dampen the spirits of either side as they took to the field at New Milton for the 3rd place play-off in the Hants RFU U14's Cup. Gosport started well with forward dominance and built up the pressure until Ben Wheeler crashed over for the first try of the game. Aidan Jarvis missed the conversion and Gosport held on to their 5 point lead until the last minute of the half when New Milton's backs got into the game and scored; a great kick for the conversion gave them a 7-5 lead at the break. Euan Archbold, Joe Wilkinson and Ed Bell were carrying well giving the Ravens forward momentum. Gosport's forwards were dominant winning scrums against the head but New Milton's defence was resolute and their try showed how dangerous there counter attack could be.
The second half began in similar fashion but a try saving tackle from Aidan Jarvis stopped a New Milton counter attack and Gosport cleared their lines. New Milton made head way as some tackles became shirt grabs and finally scored to extend their lead to 12-5. Gosport stayed in the game and attacks by Tom Ellis and Ethan Hammond seemed to raise the team again. Repeated off sides by New Milton cost them dearly as Gosport pinned them back into their half and then finally made the line with another try from Ben Wheeler that Aidan Jarvis converted to level the game. 10 minutes remained and hearts were in mouths as an error on Gosport's try line gave New Milton a 5m scrum. Again the front row of Harry Freeman, Finley Daly and Samuel Rushent did the job and with second row drive won the ball against the head and cleared their lines. Gosport worked the ball into the New Milton 22m but solid defence denied them and after three stalled attacks the final whistle went.
A solid performance by the Ravens and a game played in great spirit and sportsmanship. New skills were demonstrated and the improvement so far this season was again evident. These teams will meet next year in Division 1 of the U15's League competition and everyone watching will hope for another game as entertaining as this one. Over the season they stand won 1, lost 1, drew 1 in their three meetings which is a great reflection of their squads.
On todays performance the Man of Match was decided by the match reports writer and goes to Aidan Jarvis who had an outstanding game.