U23s Buoyed on by USSG Crowd

In front of a lively crowd of students and sailors at United Services Sports Ground, the Navy Rugby U23s followed up their defeat to Bristol University with a convincing 33 - 10 victory over the University of Portsmouth.

The match was marked by physical intensity and moments of sharp tactical play from both sides, but it was the Navy who emerged victorious, led by a standout performance from George Edson, who not only converted all three first half tries but also crossed the line himself in the second half.

The Navy started strong, asserting their authority early on with a well-worked try by Alex Einchcomb. Shortly after, Rhys Owen capitalized on a breakthrough the University’s defence to extend the lead, and Epeli Tabaka powered over to complete a commanding first half. Edson's pinpoint conversions put the Navy up 21-0 before the University struck back just before the break. In a purple patch, the away side executed a well-drilled driving maul on the right flank, culminating in a try, closing the gap to 21-5.

The second half saw the Navy maintain their control. Edson added to his personal tally by scoring a try and a fourth conversion, with Freddy Elliott also on the score sheet, pushing the Navy further ahead. However, the UoP again found a way through the Navy’s defence with another expertly executed driving maul ten minutes before full time, bringing the score to 33-10. In a surprising paradox, the Navy faltered on both ensuing kick-offs following the University’s tries.

Ultimately, the Navy U23s proved too strong, but the students showed grit and determination in a competitive fixture that kept the crowd entertained from start to finish.

Matt Bowden, U23s ADoR felt there was much more intensity and energy from the team, “...you could tell they are starting to gel which was evident in some really good long-range tries. We looked dangerous from all areas of the field, and this is pleasing to see in only our second game of the season. There are some really tough opponents coming up as we make the approach to IS, but last night’s performance has laid down a marker of what we are capable of.”

“Very happy, said Head Coach Ben Priddey “we got to look at 30 plus players which is huge leading up to IS. Portsmouth [University] were a physical side and the lads stepped up. We need to use this now to keep building and work on the areas that didn't go so well.”

Navy U23s: A Einchcomb (C), ⁠L Evans, ⁠C Davis; T Ashton, ⁠B Loga, ⁠B Smith, ⁠H Friswell, ⁠L Clayton (VC); R Owen, ⁠G Edson, ⁠L Warren, E Tabaka, ⁠H Brown, ⁠J Perry, ⁠F Elliott (VC).

Replacements: J Paterson, ⁠S Brittle, ⁠A McMillan, ⁠J Turnham, ⁠A Garton, ⁠J Donaldson, ⁠M Fullwell, J Lowe, S Boardman, ⁠Z Johns, ⁠C Williams, ⁠St Hughes, ⁠N Anderson, ⁠A Assheton.

Words by J Campbell-Baldwin

Images by K Woodland