Despite a brief spell of dry weather just two hours before kick-off, the black clouds rolled into Ganger Farm and ruined what could have been an enjoyable afternoon of running rugby.

Romsey welcomed Isle of Wight and with an almost full-strength side, head coach, David Grosse, was confident of a victory. 

Another bonus point win was forthcoming following another four try victory. The score finished 20-13. However, the win felt hollow no thanks to the awful weather conditions.

With the ball resembling a bar of soap, both teams struggled to maintain many phases of play and possession was hard to maintain. 

Both sides were armed with a good kicker, therefore the key decision was to use the wind to secure some kind of territorial advantage. This mindset favoured Romsey best as they we able to utilise their pace to ensure that the game was played mostly in the opposition half. However, after a period of good territory play from the opposition, they were awarded a penalty and took a 0-3 lead 20 minutes in the game. 

That lead lasted for just over 10 minutes. Romsey were awarded a penalty just 5m from the line and Penn-Newman opted for a quick tap and go, that resulted in a short range unconverted try from vice captain, Harrison Scott.

Romsey’s error and penalty count was disappointing, but their attitude to ensure their defence stayed strong and their energy levels stayed high, paid dividends in the final minutes of the 1st half. Jim Lamont burst through the Islander’s defence. With one defender to beat and the wet conditions to consider, Lamont chipped the ball over and, thanks to a fortunate bounce, was able to dot down for Romsey’s 2nd unconverted try. The half-time score was 10-3.

The 2nd half started well for Romsey and a try from winger, Ollie Soundy, came in the 54th minute. Despite the wet conditions, the home side were able to quickly move the ball through the hands and leaving Soundy with a classic score into the corner.

The opposition responded almost immediately and were awarded a well-deserved try on five minutes later that made the score line close at 15-8.

Romsey score again following another outstanding sole effort from the Romsey centre, Sam Adam’s. Running from his own 22-meter line, broke through four tackles before ending with a glorious chip and chase to secure Romsey the bonus point try.

Despite another try from the Isle of Wight and a well-deserved losing bonus point, the win for Romsey was secured.

The league now enjoys a much-needed break. Romsey’s next match is away to Andover on November 4. The next home game will be against Alresford on November 11.