VENTNOR 34, FAWLEY 5

HAVING threatened to do great things since the turn of the year, but without the luck, everything fell into place for Ventnor at windy Watcombe Bottom on Saturday.

The Islanders, up against a traditionally strong Fawley unit, more than matched them with their physical intensity, skill and patience against a resolute defence.

Isle of Wight County Press: Ed Blake crashes over to score his hat-trick of tries against Fawley. Ed Blake crashes over to score his hat-trick of tries against Fawley.

Ventnor got a foothold in the game, thanks to their pack, which comprised an impressive front row of Adam Pratt, skipper Lewis Jones and Ben Savill, who totally dominated the set-piece.

Veteran Ventnorian, Todd Riches, reminded spectators of his power and experience as he returned to the second row.

The back-row of Dominic Marsh, Harry Colson and Chris Hill were at their marauding best, well-supported by Dean Magnurson, who seemed to attract the ball like a magnet.

Isle of Wight County Press: Dominic Marsh catches well during a line-out against Fawley.Dominic Marsh catches well during a line-out against Fawley.

Sam Lines opened the scoring to give Ventnor a deserved lead — bursting onto the ball to slide in after a powerful scrum.

Fawley reacted strongly and it took some stern defence to keep them out.

Rosco Harris was safe under the high ball and Marsh pulled off a try-saving tackle, before Ventnor wrestled back control and won a penalty within kicking range.

Isle of Wight County Press: Ed Blake, in possession, is supported by Adam Pratt during another attack.Ed Blake, in possession, is supported by Adam Pratt during another attack.

Riches lined it up but the ball swept across the face of the posts, straight into the grateful arms of Ed Blake who charged over to score and give the home side a 10-0 lead at the interval.

Ventnor soon extended their lead — Blake again crashing over after another dominant scrummage.

Jake Babington, who had been unlucky not to score earlier, got on the score sheet, with Ventnor earning a vital try bonus.

A typically powerful drive saw the excellent Blake complete a memorable hat-trick.

Fawley scored a consolation try after Ventnor fumbled, but the Islanders responded immediately with a Colson try.

Debutant, Tom Crews and Blake added the extras.

Ventnor line-up: Savill, Jones (capt), Pratt, Magnurson, Riches, Marsh, Colson, Hill, Berry, Edwards, Blake, Babington, Lines, Finan, Harris. Replacements: Noyes, Price, Urbonas, Crews, Fox.