Chichester 26 - Salisbury 8
6th. April 2024 - The 1st XV travelled to Chichester for the final league game of the season. Chichester had visited Salisbury for the season opener back in September, which we narrowly won after a scrappy and low-scoring game.
Saturday's game was similar. Conditions were difficult with strong gusty winds, and both teams were frequently penalised which meant there was little continuity. Salisbury were first on the scoreboard with a try from centre Joe Paden. Fly-half Ollie's Bate's conversion attempt was blown off course by the wind. Chichester hit back with a converted try, then Bate was successful with a penalty and at half-time Salisbury led by 8 points to 7.
Midway through the second half Chichester scored another unconverted try to regain the lead. The sides were well matched, with both defences holding firm against the other's attacks. Late in the half Chichester were camped on Salisbury's line and were held out for a long time, but Salisbury were unable to get the ball back up the pitch to safety.
When Chichester decided to move it wide their centre spotted a gap in Salisbury's defensive line and sprinted through to score behind the posts. With a minute remaining, Chichester claimed the ball from the kick-off and ran it straight back and caught Salisbury napping to score their fourth try.
With both tries converted the final score was a rather unflattering 26-8 win for Chichester, and Salisbury ended up a disappointing second from bottom in the league.
The season is not yet over. This Saturday we are due to host Reading in the national Papa John's Men's Community Cup competition at Castle Road.
Report and photos: John Palmer
