Sat 14 Oct 2023
IW 36-14 Alresford
Isle of Wight continued their good form with a stress-free win over visiting Alresford. The mainlanders had come down from the league above and were expected to provide a stern test. They more than played their part in a good rugby contest, but IW were always in control.
IW's fast start went a long way towards easing any nerves, as they won a close in lineout and smart exploitation of the blindside saw experienced prop Martin Newnham canter in out wide. A second try followed inside 7 minutes courtesy of captain Luke Blackman, George Huish's conversion seeing IW up 12-0.
Alresford settled and both teams had their share of play thereafter, an away try cancelled out by a score from the dancing feet of Huish, and IW led 19-7 at the break. They pressed home their advantage in the third quarter, as the irrepressible Blackman completed his hat-trick, while replacement Keith Wallace weighed in with the team's sixth try. Alresford finished in the ascendancy, being rewarded for some late pressure with the final score of a sportingly contested match. IW were overall satisfied with their performance, and pleased to welcome back returning flanker Ryan Tulloch.
IW now move up to third in the league table, and next Saturday travel to Romsey.
IW: Young, Wynyard-Wright, Webster, Huish, Rolfe, Le Grange, Blyth, Newnham, McQueen, Keyes, Blackburn, D Bishop, Puzey, Tulloch, Blackman. Reps: Wallace, Hanson, J Bishop.
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