Jersey 50 - Salisbury 15
Salisbury travelled to Jersey RFC for the seventh round of fixtures in league Regional 2 Tribute South Central. Salisbury were well aware of the challenge presented by the league leaders and despite losing were competitive throughout, contributing much to a great afternoon of rugby.
It was the hosts who opened the scoring with a try on six minutes but Salisbury responded soon afterwards when Ollie Bate converted a penalty in the 12th minute. Thanks to some expert game management from Bate, it remained close until late into the first half when Jersey stretched their lead to 22 – 3 with three tries in quick succession.
Despite the scoreline, Salisbury were undaunted and continued test the hosts physically, exemplified by Tom Ranaboldo’s numerous turnovers. They were rewarded early the second half with a try from the visitor’s ever present back-rower, James Kennedy. Salisbury were beginning to get back on terms. However, the response from Jersey was emphatic with three further tries. Despite a 43 – 8 scoreline, the visitors remained hungry for points. Their efforts were rewarded with a try from centre Eremasi Ranatora as the match entered the final 10 minutes. Bate added the extras but it was Jersey that had the final word with a converted try in the last minute to end an entertaining afternoon 50 – 15 winners.
Salisbury clearly benefitted from the weekend away on the channel island. It has brought the squad closer together and the experience will serve them well for the remainder of their league campaign.