JRFC Saltgate Colts V Haywards Heath

Jersey welcomed Haywards Heath for our first home game of the 25/26 season. It is rare for the Colts to get a home fixture, we always look forward to playing in front of our friends, families and sponsors. The match was well supported by a strong showing of Jersey support as well as great travelling support from Haywards Heath.

Jersey welcomed 17 changes to the team that faced Hove last Sunday, a fantastic show of the depth created within the squad. It was especially pleasing to see some players return from injuries.

The game started like the late rounds of a heavyweight boxing match, both teams throwing heavy carries and tackles into each other. It was a well contested first half. Haywards Heath made the most of attacking chances scoring two quick tries to lead 12-0. The handling between 9 and 10 as well as the pack made for good viewing from the sideline. Jersey ended the half well, constantly pressuring the Haywards Heath line, with the visitors going down to 14 men, as Jersey did 15 minutes prior.

Jersey were unable to turn pressure into points and went into halftime with a 12-0 deficit. Rugby is all about momentum, and this is where Jersey struggled in the second half. Haywards Heath were well organised with slick handling which led to a number of well worked tries.

Whilst it was a tough day for Jersey, elements of the game were even. The set piece was a great contest, as well as the breakdown. It was fantastic to see a number of younger colts players stand up to a tough challenge.

Both coaches felt the final scoreline of 0-36 to the visitors didn’t paint the full picture of what was in essence a very competitive match. Everyone at Jersey Rugby Club thanks Haywards Heath for travelling over and wishes them well for the remainder of the season.

A special thanks to our sponsors Saltgate for attending the match and for their ongoing support of the Colts.

Ashton Planner
Austin Clarke
Dexter Frigot
Harry le Brocq
James Molteno
Jamie White
Joe Griffiths
Jonty O'Sullivan ( Captain )
Joshua Fudge
Louis Pallant
Luke Cadoret
Oliver Cranmer
Oliver Houghton
Oliver Bell
Oliver  Macready
Oliver Treco
Samuel Wood
Sebastian Braunspahn Alcala
Stellan Tonsberg
Thomas Edey
Will Wilson
Ze-Luca Piazza

Coaches:

Ewan Davies , Ben Harvey

Managers:

Stuart Dixon-Smith , Nigel Higginson