Hove V Jersey Colts

20 Hove Colts Jersey Colts 21
Tries Jenson Russell , Penalty Try , Jonty O'Sulliavn
Conversions Ollie Treco , Lyle Pritchard

Jersey have progressed into the Semi-Final of the Sussex Cup after narrowly defeating Hove colts by 1 point. This was the third time Jersey have played at Hove this season, although Hove took victory on the last two occasions, both matches were played closely. Three games that have been a great advert for Colts Rugby, all played with huge respect between the players and coaches.

With pitches unavailable at Hove we are thankful to the club for putting the game on in tricky conditions. Jersey started on top by reacting to an unorthodox kick off. Organisation from the forwards led to Jenson Russell going over for an opening score, Ollie Treco converting to make it 0 7 to Jersey . Likewise to Hove, Jersey were unable to deal with the kick off and after great pressure Hove managed to score through a tap and go. 5-7 to Jersey. The remainder of the first half was played with periods of either team being on top. Jersey had a superb 10 minutes but ultimately were unable to turn pressure into points. Hove regained possession and battered the Jersey line until a score followed again by a 3 point penalty. Hove were on top at half time with a 15-7 lead.

Jersey regrouped and came out strong in the second half, the boot of Jonty O’Sullivan helped us gain distance and ultimately led to a penalty try to jersey, 15-14. 5 minutes later Hove managed to get back on the scoresheet through superb carries from the Number 8 who was awarded Hove's player of the match.

Jersey were now 6 points down with 20 minutes left. The boys managed to pull it from the fire and regroup to take the lead 20-21 via a Jonty O’Sullivan pick and go at the base , converted by Lyle Pritchard.

The final 20 minutes was all about discipline and attitude, both teams played a fantastic final quarter, going at each other constantly with great attack and defence. Jersey held out despite a late scare through a Hove kick at goal. The referee called the final whistle and it was smiles on Jersey faces.

Thank you to Hove for a great match that truly could have gone either way. We have a great relationship between the clubs and look forward to seeing them next season. Jerseys next game is Haywards Heath 11:45 this Saturday at Jersey Rugby Club.

Saltgate continue to sponsor and support the team both on and off the pitch and recently presented the squad with training and playing kit.

Alex Neasham
Alex Edwards
Alexander Powell
Archie Le Maistre
Arthur Mangematin
Ashton Planner
Byron Major
Cole Gueno
George Roberts
Jenson Russell
Jonty O'Sullivan
Joseph Griffiths
Lyle Pritchard
Max Sayers
Oliver Houghton
Oliver Treco
Quentin Fevrier
Thomas Edey
Ze-Luca Piazza

Coach Ewan Davies
Managers Stuart Dixon-Smith Nigel Higginson