Dorset & Wilts Colts Cup Final
14th April 2024: Salisbury Colts narrowly lost the Dorset & Wilts Colts Cup final to Oldfield RFC 24 to 20, but they should be very proud of their performance.
Oldfield RFC, having the wind with them, started the game with more intensity at the contact area and scored two well worked converted tries within 14 minutes. Some sides may have succumbed at this point, but not Salisbury, who pulled together, becoming more assertive at both tackle and ruck areas, leading to a try by Christian Barrett.
More pressure was applied causing Oldfield problems, but they managed to survive, conceding a number of penalties, one of which was converted by Will Barnard, giving a half time score of 14 – 8.
The second half started at the same high pace and intensity, but perhaps Salisbury tried to play too much rugby instead of using the wind, allowing Oldfield to attack again, leading to a try, making it 19 to 8. Once again Salisbury did not give up, fighting their way back, using the wind and trapping Oldfield in their 22, hammering the line leading to a try from Jitoko Junior Makasial, now it was 19 – 13.
The momentum was swinging Salisbury’s way, but a yellow card against Salisbury allowed Oldfield to gain field position down the right wing, scoring a try from a well-executed cross kick to the left wing to take an 11 point lead. With time running out, Salisbury increased the ferocity of their attack, putting Oldfield under pressure, allowing a tap and go from a penalty, ending with a converted try from by Manasa Tai Caqusau.
Could Salisbury repeat their semi-final comeback? Well they did their best, but time just ran out for them. Full credit should be given to Salisbury Colts and their coaches for their style of play and never give up attitude.
Report: Simon Hedges
Photos: John Palmer
