ISLE of Wight’s winning run came to an end on Saturday as an understrength Rangers side slipped to defeat.
ALDERSHOT & FLEET 40, ISLE OF WIGHT 29
With several regulars unavailable, the Islanders used the trip to give valuable game time to younger squad members — who responded with determination, despite the result.
A sluggish start cost them early on.
A dropped kick-off allowed the hosts’ half-back pairing to break through and score inside the first 60 seconds.
That shock jolted IW into action and they dominated territory for the next 20 minutes.
Outside half, George Huish, levelled with a smart chip-and-chase finish, before adding a simple penalty to put his side in front.
Momentum swung when IW received a yellow card for a deliberate knock-on, and Aldershot struck twice, with strong running, to exploit the extra space.
Excellent defensive work from Jacob Wynyard-Wright and Jayme Bishop limited further damage.
Back at full strength, IW twice went close, before sustained pressure saw Sam McQueen release Ben Sanderson to score.
But another yellow on the stroke of half-time led to a penalty try and a sizeable deficit.
Aldershot crossed twice more early in the second half, while IW were still down to 14 players.
Rangers skipper, Luke Blackman, powered over after a quick tap, once numbers were restored, but a third yellow hampered any hopes of a comeback.
Late tries from McQueen and a spirited cameo from returning coach, Neil Evans, reflected the Islanders’ fight, but the home side held firm to secure victory.
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