Isle of Wight weekend rugby roundup...

IW 36-14 Alresford

The Islanders continued their fine form with a stress-free win over a visiting Alresford side who were expected to provide a stern test. The hosts were always in control, and a fast start went a long way toward easing any nerves.

Martin Newnham opened the scoring, and a second try followed soon after through Luke Blackman and George Huish. The Islanders found themselves leading 19-7 at the break, and pressed home their advantage; Blackman bagging a hattrick. 

Ventnor 5 – 33 Romsey

At Watcombe Bottom, a familiar pattern was repeated as Ventnor reached half-time in good shape, only to watch the game slip away in the second.

Ventnor conceded early - a clearing kick returned - and lost fullback Alex Morton to a calf injury.
But the Islanders rallied, driving up the centre of the field, only for the ball to be stripped on the line. 

Romsey extended their lead, then a great break from Ben Cooper threatened.

The Islanders secured a line out close in and, with Lewy Morton ruling the airways, a maul was set up and Ed Blake bravely dived in to snatch a try on the half-hour mark. 

But any momentum the home side generated dissipated when Sam Lines was sidelined before the break. 
Second half, the Islanders struggled, and Romsey scored under the posts following some uncharacteristic missed tackles.

Poor decision making at crucial times cost Ventnor, but there was still plenty to admire and positives to build upon in the weeks to come. 

IW II 83 - 12 US Portsmouth II

IW II enjoyed their first success of the season at Wootton Rec, with an ultimately facile win over a youthful visiting United Services side.

After a closely fought first 40 minutes, the second half was one-way traffic. USP scored first, after six minutes, but IW were soon on terms.

A good run from Jack Sharples set up field position, and slick hands saw captain Stuart Browne glide over in the corner to level.

Guest full-back, Ash Smith, showed his pace soon after, running in a fine individual score and converting another. 

A Jayme Bishop yellow card preceded another USP try, which left IW with a 17-12 lead at half-time.

Karl Davey and debutant George Butler impressed after the break, and Joe Bussell opened the second half scoring with a powerful run from outside the 22.

Smith and Bussell went on to complete hat-tricks.