Hampshire U15 v Middlesex U15
23rd April 2017
The game was played at Winchester RFC on a sunny afternoon. Hampshire kicked off and after a scrappy first 5 minutes started to dominate the game. Hampshire’s efforts were rewarded after 16 minutes with a try for George Prentice. Middlesex then came straight back. The kick off was knocked on and from the following scrum Middlesex backs punched a hole through Hampshire’s defence to go over under the posts.
Having taken the lead 5-7 Middlesex then put Hampshire under a lot of pressure. Although conceding a lot of penalties Hampshire’s defence held and in the last minute of the half Hampshire broke out and Jamie Cook scored a try which was converted by George Prentice. This made it 12-7 at half time.
The second half started well for Hampshire and after 5 minutes of sustained pressure Harvey King went over in the corner to give Hampshire a 10 point lead. Hampshire continued to pressure and after several penalties near the line the ref issued a yellow card to Middlesex. Hampshire took advantage of the extra man and 3 minutes later after a good backs move Ben Voase went over to give Hampshire a 22-7 lead.
With 10 minutes to go and the game looking won some sloppy play in the Hampshire back field allowed Middlesex to strike back with a breakaway try. This gave Middlesex renewed hope and they finished the game keeping Hampshire pinned in their own 22. Middlesex finally scored a converted try with the last play of the game.
A very hard fought game with both sides showing periods of fast flowing rugby. Both sides can be proud of the efforts they put in.
Final Score Hampshire 22 Middlesex 19
