A DETERMINED fightback fell just short for the Rangers in a closely contested match on Saturday.
OVERTON 26, ISLE OF WIGHT 14
Isle of Wight RFC were narrowly defeated away a Overton, despite a late push that nearly earned them a losing bonus point.
The visitors enjoyed a promising start — applying early pressure and showing attacking intent.
However, a string of penalties allowed Overton to gain ground and score.
Isle of Wight continued to threaten, with winger Ted Southgate making several strong runs — but Overton’s defence held firm.
A key moment came when Isle of Wight were reduced to 14 players, following a yellow card for winger Ian Bennett.
Overton capitalised on the numerical advantage — crossing for their second try and taking a 14-0 lead into half-time.
The Islanders began the second half brightly, led by second row and man of the match Kevin Blackburn.
Centre, Harri Jones-Evans, powered over for Isle of Wight’s first try — carrying defenders with him in the process!
Overton replied with another score, before Isle of Wight enjoyed their best spell of the game.
Strong carries from Sam McQueen and Luke Blackman punched holes in the defence, and quick interchange saw George Huish round off a try, to bring the game to within a score.
In the final moments, however, Overton scored in the corner after a missed kick to touch, denying Isle of Wight a losing bonus point.
IWRFC: Young, Southgate, Browne, Jones-Evans, Bennett, Huish, Vickers, Newnham, McQueen, Savill, Blackburn, Bishop, Wynyard-Wright, D. Blackman, L. Blackman (capt), Thorne, Bussell, Evans.
Share