AFTER a superb season of rugby — consistently staying in the top two of the Hampshire Premiership — the Hurricanes are just a step away from promotion.

The Hurricanes' whirlwind season, with only three defeats to their name, will conclude as runners-up after their final match against Portsmouth II tomorrow (Saturday) — whatever the outcome.

Isle of Wight County Press: The Hurricanes' Jack Wedderkop will be a vital player in the play-offs against Weybridge Vandals. FILEThe Hurricanes' Jack Wedderkop will be a vital player in the play-offs against Weybridge Vandals. FILE

But next Saturday, Sandown and Shanklin have a tough play-off at home to Surrey 1 runners-up Weybridge Vandals, with a big Fairway crowd expected.

The Isle of Wight's top team will be wanting to go into the play-off game in great form and with a selection headache from having plenty of in-form players — giving tomorrow's match much greater significance.

The winners have the prize of playing in London South West (LSW) 3 — the eighth level in the national league structure.

Isle of Wight County Press: Hurricanes flanker Harry Hooper, an important player this season, catches in the line-out. FILEHurricanes flanker Harry Hooper, an important player this season, catches in the line-out. FILE

The Islanders earned a home tie because of their better record than the Vandals — two less defeats all season.

The club has had quite a history of making the play-offs, having appeared in three previously since its inception in 2000 — losing to London Cornish in the 2004-05 season, then Old Alleynians by a point in 2007-08, but, a season later, beating Old Whitgiftians 17-10.

The Hurricanes were also promoted to the former LSW 4 in the 2005-06 season as champions.

Isle of Wight County Press: Hurricanes skipper Sam Flux, with the ball, has kicked superbly all season. FILEHurricanes skipper Sam Flux, with the ball, has kicked superbly all season. FILE

The club, which has gone through turbulent times, has developed on and off the pitch, notably in achieving RFU accreditation this season.

After a fifth-placed finish last season in Hampshire 1, with league restructure seeing them join the new Premiership and recruiting former Ventnor coach Damien Marriott as director of rugby, the Hurricanes have gone from strength-to-strength.

Under Marriott, numerous players have stepped up to the plate this season, such as flanker Harry Hopper, prop Ben Shannon, back-rower Damian Seder, back, Jack Wedderkop, vastly experienced tighthead prop Martin Richomme, hooker Zak Chiverton, the leading try scorer this season, and inspirational skipper, Sam Flux, who has kicked superbly.

Hurricanes chairman, Bill McPherson, said he was immensely proud of the club and what its two sides have achieved this season.

“This is not an anomaly or luck, but a result of a strategic aim, delivered by a committed team, on and off the pitch.

“We intend to win convincingly on April 13 — blood, sweat and tears, whatever it takes. I have complete and utter faith in this squad and have seen them when their backs are against the wall.”

“We intend for both teams to go up, maintain and build our squad base and succeed in LSW 3. It’s not going to be easy, but we’re up for the challenge.

“The Hurricanes aim to succeed and progress — representing the best in Island sport.

“However, there is still much to do in this journey of excellence.”