Petersfield First League Game of the Season

On a warm, dry, October day, where better to pass a leisurely, peaceful and tranquil Sunday afternoon. Definitely not on the touch line of a very dramatic game of colts rugby.

The Hampshire Division 2 (South) Colts league got underway on Sunday and both sides were keen to impress.

The Petersfield lads, under the captaincy of Spencer, were up against Portsmouth in the league opener with all to play for.

Peef got off to a flying start with a try by Ffrench-Lynch after just 5 minutes following a chased down chip kick. Spencer converted to add another 2 points.

Then, the mighty back row from Portsmouth went to town on Petersfield's defence in an awesome show of power. The 'Field lads really had no answer as Portsmouth dominated the next 20 minutes running in 4 tries with 4 conversions. The Petersfield lads we shell-shocked but refused to give in.

Half-time score 28-7

A captain's talk at half-time and some soul-searching hit the spot nicely and Petersfield came out in the second half with renewed vigour and self-belief.

Portsmouth gave away so many penalties during the game and within 4 minutes of the re-start, Spencer had earned 3 points from the tee.

Startup barrelled over the line 5 minutes later. This time, the conversion was just wide of the mark. Petersfield was back in the game and firing on all cylinders.

The Portsmouth back row managed to scramble another try on 69 minutes but failed to convert.

The clock went red and Petersfield had the ball. Some classy footwork and passing moved the ball out to Spencer who went over for Petersfield's 3rd try. It's always important when the try-scorer is also the kicker - pressure on!! Spencer's nerve held and the conversion was awarded.

Final score 33-22

We all hoped that the lads would be able to overturn Portsmouth's run of form over the past couple of years, but it was not to be. That said, the second half was a complete turn-around from the first and the lads grew in confidence and their skill on the pitch started to show. Petersfield won the second half 15-5. The squad just needs to learn how to "turn it on" from the first whistle. Once they can do this, they will be a force to be reckoned with.

Next league game at home vs Trojans 22nd October

(photos: Ffrench-Lynch)