Isle of Wight rugby Hurricanes success in season opener

HURRICANES 29, ELLINGHAM & RINGWOOD 22

With less than favourable weather resulting in a challenging, wet field and tricky handling conditions, Sandown and Shanklin were given an early taste of the gritty competition lying ahead this season.

The visitors were the first to put points on the board, taking a 3-0 lead, following a home side infringement that led to a converted penalty.

Their lead, however, was quickly removed when Hurricanes' captain, Sam Rees, decided to take a shot at the posts after an Ellingham infringement, with Anthony Burr successfully levelling.

The Hurricanes started to build momentum and made significant strides with the home team bagged their second score of the afternoon.

Following a fantastic break from Luke Wedderkop, Darren Carew eventually scored the try, though the conversion was narrowly missed by Burr, making the score 15-3.

Ellingham managed to claw their way back, ending the half trailing the hosts 15-9.

As the second half commenced, the visitors seemed set on turning the tide.

Following a few strategically executed phases, Ellingham's prop secured the ball and made a successful try, turning the game on its head.

Another converted penalty extended their lead, making the score 19-15. 

The Hurricanes responded — George Finan managing to grab a score for the home side, successfully converting Burr's perfectly judged cross-field kick into a try.

The home team's momentum did not stop there. Rob Newton made a powerful run to cut through Ellingham's defence, resulting in the afternoon's fourth try.

Burr's successful conversion brought the score to 29-19 for the Hurricanes. 

A late penalty kick by the visiting team reduced the lead, which set up a nervy finish as Ellingham made a final attacking surge.

But the Hurricanes defence held firm, managing to maintain their lead, with relief, at the final whistle.