Rugby Reports Saturday and Sunday 21st and 22nd October 2017
For the full report on the 1st XV, United Xv and A XV matches please read more...
Salisbury 44-27 Swindon
Injuries and non-availabilities again contrived to disrupt Salisbury’s planning but, despite the blustery conditions and an unconvincing performance, a bonus point win was secured. Illness saw Harry Whittington step in at outside half while Jack Sheldrake shifted to full back, Christian Metson returning from injury in the centre. Captain Josh Green and Dominic Porter locked the scrummage producing a solid platform for the backs.
The visitors started brightly but the hosts drew first blood when from a tremendous scrummage Toby Peebles crossed for a score. Swindon replied with a penalty and the hosts seemed to wobble lacking the accuracy that is normally part of their game and as a result failing to extend their lead despite the gale at their backs. Eventually Dan Hammond crossed for a score before Callum McTaggart was rewarded for his industry with his first try in a senior shirt, Sheldrake converting both tries for a 19-3 half time lead.
Playing into the wind Salisbury looked much sharper and dominated after the break, quick hands giving Metson a chance to use his strength and bulk to smash his way under the posts for a score, Sheldrake converting, before Porter rose from a mass of bodies with a smile and the ball following a rolling maul.
Swindon, with veteran Adam Westall pulling the strings, still looked dangerous on the break and duly scored before Whittington capped an impressive display with a deserved score. Salisbury extended their lead when hooker Juan Van der Menwe burst clear and showed the defence a clean pair of heels to touch down, Sheldrake adding a brace of goals for a 45-10 lead.
Sadly the hosts were unable to close the game out and allowed Swindon to run in a further three scores to the disquiet of the crowd. The conditions were difficult, late changes to the selected side have an unsettling effect, but Salisbury still scored seven tries. The coaching team and players are aware that stiffer tasks lie ahead.
Oakmedians 29-15 Salisbury United
Salisbury second string trailed in behind Oakmedians in this Dorset and Wilts Division One clash.
Salisbury A XV 39-15 New Milton 3rd XV
The A XV maintained their unbeaten record with a fine display. Great teamwork enabled Chris Langdon to score four tries, Matt Van Leuven grabbed a brace and Joe Jackson also crossed the line with Joe Jackson kicking a conversion. The side produced a clinical display buoyed by the return of skipper Mark Lerpiniere.
