Match Reports
Eastleigh went top of league for the first time this season with a 12 try, 79-0 victory over second from bottom Nomads. Whilst Nomads made the game a contest, Eastleigh dominated all areas of play. Five trys were scored in the first half with the bonus point secured by the 30th minute. The first half try scorers were Ash Holland, Richie O'Donnell (2), Adam Kidd and Martin Kirby. Phil Baldwin added a penalty and 4 conversions. The score was 36-0 at half time. Eastleigh shuffled the back row and back line in the second half to try some different options and scored a further seven trys. The scorers were Paul Fudio (2), Chris Cove (2), Jack Curtis and Ash Holland (2). John Lynch added 4 conversions.
The Pipestock Man of the Match was Richie O’Donnell.
Coach Andy Boyes said 'I'm really pleased with how the team performed today, we wanted to put in a strong performance. It's great to go top of league but there's still a long way to go until the end of the season. Fordingbridge will push us all the way and United Services Portsmouth will be in the mix.
Congratulations to Ash Holland for his hatrick of trys and Andy Innes for his first team debut.'
Eastleigh's winning ways continued with an away victory over 3rd place Millbrook. After Millbrook's unexpected win over league leaders Fordingbridge before Christmas, Eastleigh needed a strong performance to keep the pressure on Fordingbridge; and that's what they delivered. From the kick off, Eastleigh were on the front foot with a midfield break by flanker Richie O'Donnell. Within 10 minutes an unconverted try scored by Paul Fudio made the score 5-0. Using the kicking game Eastleigh continued to put the pressure on Millbrook but strong defence kept them out. Millbrook tried to gain ground using their forwards and as result Eastleigh conceded a number of penalties at the breakdown. It was no surprise, shortly before half time, that an Eastleigh flanker was shown a yellow card for persistent infringements. Eastleigh stepped up a gear and following an excellent cross field kick by flyhalf Phil Baldwin, Ash Holland scored an unconverted try in the corner, his 6th try in 7 games. It was 10-0 at half time.
After the restart and with 3 minutes remaining on the sin bin Eastleigh nearly scored in the corner following good interplay between the forwards and backs. The second half continued in much the same way as the first, with Millbrook trying to use their pack to gain ground and Eastleigh looking to build the phases and use their backs out wide. As Eastleigh started to take control, Millbrook conceded a number of penalties. Phil Baldwin kicked two to take the score to 16-3. With 5 minutes remaining, following a interception scrum half, Sean Hayes ran the length of the pitch to score an unconverted try in the corner. The final score was 21-3 to Eastleigh. The Pipestock man of the match was loose head prop Paul Taylor, his scrummaging, work at the breakdown and all round play was immense.
Eastleigh coach Andy Boyes said 'We started very well and got an early score which put Millbrook under pressure, they came back at us through their forwards and we conceded too many penalties at the breakdown. At half time we talked about the penalty count and corrected it after the break. The second half was one of our best all round team performances of the season. I was especially pleased how we stepped up a gear and scored when we were down to 14 men.'
Eastleigh kicked off 2012 with comprehensive bonus point victory over Petersfield. Eastleigh dominated all areas of play and could have scored at least a further three tries if the last pass on gone to hand. Eastleigh opened the scoring in the 15th minute with a try from hooker Jason Berry (Pipestock’s Man of the Match), converted by Phil Baldwin to make the score 7 - 0. Within a minute, from a five metre scrum the Eastleigh pack powered over and number 8, John Weatherall scored an unconverted try to take the score to 12 - 0. Eastleigh kept the pressure on with some excellent forward and back play but were unable to covert the opportunities because of minor errors. The score was 12 - 0 at half time.
Eastleigh continued to dominate after the restart and following an excellent cross field kick, flanker Paul Fudio scored a 3rd unconverted try. Winger Ash Holland then scored two tries following good hands in the backs. Phil Baldwin converting one taking the score to 29 - 0. A last try was scored by full back Chris Cove and converted by Phil Baldwin to make the final score 36 - 0.
Coach Andy Boyes said 'I'm really pleased with today's result, after the two week break we needed to put in a good performance to start the 2nd half of the season well. In periods, the game was more open and loose than we wanted but the interplay between all the players was excellent. It was good to see Richie O'Donnell and Arnie Payne back for the first time this season.'
Eastleigh finished 2011 on a high with a 21 - 0 win over Romsey. Eastleigh dominated the game throughout with Romsey only going close once, late in the first half. Eastleigh opened the scoring with a penalty from Phil Baldwin to make it 3 - 0. Chris Cove crossed the line and scored a try following a good backs move, Phil Baldwin converted to take the score to 10 - 0. Another Phil Baldwin penalty made it 13 - 0 at half time.
The second half continued much like the first with Eastleigh pushing hard for more tries. With 20 minutes to go Ash Holland scored the 2nd try following a good break by No 8 Paul Fudio, taking the score to 18 - 0. Phil Baldwin kicked a final penalty to take the score to 21 - 0.
Coach Andy Boyes said 'It was important for us to win today after narrowly losing to Fordingbridge last week. Given the conditions, I'm very pleased with result. It's been a great first half to the season with 11 wins from 12 games, we're looking forward to 2012 and pushing for promotion. Well done to the whole squad. 'Captain Russell Smith said 'it was a good result but the early Christmas present came one week late as Fordingbridge lost to Millbrook’.
Eastleigh narrowly lost out 10 - 16 to top of the table Fordingbridge. Fordingbridge took an early lead with a penalty following an infringement at the breakdown. Eastleigh replied shortly afterwards with a well worked try with Ash Holland scoring in the corner and Phil Baldwin converting to take the score to 7 - 3. Fordingbridge scored another penalty to take the score to 7 - 6 and shortly afterwards a good backs move saw them score a converted try to make it 7 - 13. Eastleigh then applied the pressure and came close to scoring twice but Fordingbridge defended well to keep the score to 7 - 13 at the break. The second half continued as the first half did with both teams attacking and defending well. Both sides traded penalties to take the score to 10 - 16. Eastleigh pushed hard late in the half but Fordingbridge defended well again to take the victory. The Pipestock Man of the Match for Eastleigh was Adam Kidd.
Coach Andy Boyes said 'It was a great game of rugby reflecting the fact that we are the top two teams in Hampshire 1. The boys gave 110%, I couldn't ask for more. I look forward to the return fixture at the end of the season. I pleased we picked up a losing bonus point.'
Eastleigh remain unbeaten in Hampshire 1 after securing their 9th league victory following a hard fought game with 3rd place United Services Portsmouth. USP started the better but strong defence from Eastleigh prevented USP from scoring. Eastleigh opened the scoring with a try by Adam Kidd following a well worked line out and driving maul. Phil Baldwin converted to give Eastleigh a 7 - 0 lead. USP hit back with a penalty to make the score 7 - 3 at half time. From the restart Eastleigh went close but failed to score in the corner. The game continued to be very tight and USP kicked another penalty to take the score to 7 - 6. With 12 minutes to go play was stopped for 15 minutes following an injury to a USP player. Following the restart Eastleigh were the stronger side and a superb drop goal by full back Phil Baldwin, Pipestock’s Man of the Match, from just inside the USP half, sailed through the posts to give Eastleigh a 10 - 6 victory.
Eastleigh had to dig deep to secure a hard fought 19 - 18 victory at New Milton. Eastleigh dominated the first half with winger Ash Holland scoring a try within two minutes on his 1st team debut. Jon Lynch converted to make it 7 - 0. New Milton then scored a penalty following an infringement at the breakdown to make it 7 - 3. Eastleigh then put the pressure on New Milton and Dave Craddock scored an unconverted try taking the score to 12 - 3. Another exciting move saw full back Chris Cove score a try which was covered by Jon Lynch making the score 19 - 3. Eastleigh could have scored a further three tries if the ball had gone to hand before half time but silly mistakes kept the score at 19 - 3.
After half time, New Milton scored another penalty to take the score to 19 - 6. Having been in total control in the first half Eastleigh then switched off and New Milton began to dominate scoring two tries and one conversion to make it a thrilling climax to the game. Having used all their subs Eastleigh had to grind out the last 12 minutes with 14 men because of an injury to flanker Tony Fudio. Coach Andy Boyes said ' It really was a game of two halves, we dominated the first half and New Milton the second. I'm very pleased to come away with a victory. We tried a new look back line with a new fly half and winger both performing very well. We also gave a debut to James Curran as a sub late in the second half.'
Eastleigh travelled to 4th place Isle of Wight and maintained their perfect start to the season with a 45 - 11 win. Playing with the wind and slope of the pitch, Isle of Wight pinned Eastleigh in their half for the first 25 minutes but resolute defence from Eastleigh kept the score to 0 - 6. Some good forward and back work allowed Eastleigh to score two converted tries before half time to make the score 14 - 6. Tries coming Dave Craddock and Paul Fudio, both converted by flyhalf, Phil Baldwin.
Within a minute of the restart, a backs move that started in the Eastleigh 22 resulted in centre, Martin Kirby scoring for Eastleigh to effectively seal the victory. Further tries from Phil Baldwin, Paul Taylor (2) and Jack Curtis and 3 conversions from Phil Baldwin made the score 45 - 11. Eastleigh coach Andy Boyes said 'The Isle of Wight made it difficult for us in the first 25 minutes and I was pleased to only concede 6 points, the guys didn't panic and took control and we 'ground out' a good victory against a strong Isle of Wight team'. Captain Russ Smith added there were great displays in attack and defence with an exceptional performance from “man of the match” Dave Craddock.
Eastleigh's winning ways continued with an eleven try victory over Lytchett Minster. The bonus point was secured within 25 minutes with the four trys coming from Dan Achiles, Steve Jerram and Chris Cove (2). A fifth try from Greg King made it 27-3 at half time. Eastleigh's pressure continued in the second half with a further five trys coming from Martin Kirby, Greg King, Paul Fudio, Russ Smith and Steve Jerram(2) and a penalty from Russ Smith. Lytchett Minster scored a consolation try following a interception. Final score 66 - 8. Captain Russ Smith said “whilst pleased with the result there are plenty of areas to improve on that will be targeted in training in the coming weeks”, Eastleigh coach Andy Boyes added “I'm very pleased with the result, we're scoring from all over the pitch, five from the forwards today and four from the backs”.
Eastleigh ran in six tries to maintain their unbeaten record in Hampshire 1 beating Nomads 39 - 3. Strong defence by Nomads and handling errors by Eastleigh meant it was a start/stop affair with Nomads keeping the score to 12 - 0 at half time, tries coming from Jack Curtis and Micky Holmes.
In the second half Eastleigh opened up and ran in four more tries to ensure the bonus point was gained and keep the pressure on league leaders, Fordingbridge. Tries coming from Heke Buchanan, Paul Fudio and two more from Jack Curtis. Head Coach Andy Boyes said “It wasn't a pretty match but we got the result we wanted, we took the opportunity to rest some players and try a new centre combination. I'm very pleased we remain unbeaten”.
Eastleigh's winning start to the season continued with a confident 26 - 6 win over Millbrook to make it four wins in four games. All four tries coming from the Fudio brothers. Eastleigh took the lead within five minutes with Paul Fudio scoring the first of his three tries to make it 5 - 0. Penalties were then exchanged taking the score to 8 - 3. Millbrook tried to hit back but resolute defence from Eastleigh kept them out and resulted in a yellow card for a Millbrook player.
A second try from Paul Fudio took the score to 16 - 3 at half time. Millbrook raised their game in the first 20 minutes of the second half and earned themselves a penalty to take the score to 16 - 6. Eastleigh’s centre Shaq Willson was then yellow carded for a high tackle but Eastleigh took control while down to 14 men and Paul Fudio scored his 3rd try to make the score 21 - 6. Millbrook were then reduced to 14 men following a second yellow card for their 2nd row. After some good work at the breakdown area, Eastleigh's Tony Fudio scored the 4th try running in from the half way line to claim the bonus point.
Russ Smith said “a scrappy game all in all but pleased with the result considering we had 6 regulars out injured”. Head Coach Andy Boyes commented “We had to make some late changes due to injury and illness which meant we had to play some players out of position, they did a great job and earned us the victory”.
Eastleigh made it three wins from three games with a hard fought victory over Petersfield. Eastleigh started slowly and appeared to be still on the coach when Petersfield scored a converted try within three minutes of the start to make it 0-7. Within five minutes, Russ Smith brought Eastleigh back with a try from a well worked forwards and backs move to make the score 5-7. It was then end to end stuff with Petersfield scoring a second unconverted try to make it 5-12. Russ Smith took Eastleigh ahead with a second converted try, 14-12 but from the restart Petersfield scored a third converted try to make it 14-19 at the break.
Following half time Eastleigh's superior fitness and strength and excellent forward and back interplay play earned them 20 unanswered points. Trys coming from Jack Curtis (2), Tony Fudio and Paul Taylor. Head coach Andy Boyes said “We were caught cold at the start with Petersfield scoring early however at half time we put things right and earned a hard fought victory. With six changes to last weeks team, two through injury, I'm very pleased with the strength of our squad”. Captain and double try scorer Russ Smith said “I didn’t expect to be awarded Man of the Match as every player put in 110% to get the victory but we are all looking forward to our game next week at home against Millbrook”.
In front of their new 1st team sponsor, Pipestock, Eastleigh made it two wins from two with a 46 - 8 win over Romsey at Bishopstoke on Saturday. Eastleigh were 5 - 0 up after 15 minutes following a well worked forwards drive from a lineout with Paul Fudio scoring. A second converted try followed after a good backs move with Pete O'Donnell taking the score to 12 - 0. A Lloyd Bennett penalty made it 15 - 0.
Eastleigh were in control but then went to sleep and conceded a number of penalties which allowed Romsey back into the game. A Romsey penalty made it 15 - 3 and then following a yellow card for an Eastleigh forward for persistent infringements Romsey scored a try. Just before half time, Romsey could have closed the gap with a second try if it was not for Eastleigh's excellent defence. Half time score 15 - 8.
After half time Eastleigh stepped up a gear and Jack Curtis scored within 5 minutes of the restart. The penalties were cut out and Eastleigh delivered 31 unanswered points in the second half with the backs and forwards combining well to score from all over the pitch. The three more trys coming from Paul Fudio, John Lynch and John Weatherall.
Captain Russ Smith said “It’s fantastic to see the player base growing in strength and depth, something we have been waiting for a long time and now we can use it to our full potential”.
Head coach Andy Boyes said “After a mixed first half, I was very pleased how the players reacted after half time and delivered a great result. We gave debuts to two players and they slotted into the team extremely well. We're looking forward to going away to Petersfield next week”.
Eastleigh 1st opened the 2011/2012 season with a well deserved win over an improved and new look Farnborough team. Eastleigh travelled with a strong side, leaving several 1st team regulars at home to play for the 2nds and some unavailable. Eastleigh opened up the score board with a penalty in the opening minutes of the game and followed shortly after with a try from Shaquille Hohipa-Wilson, converted by Lloyd Bennett.
A second try in the first half, scored by Paul Taylor from a pushover scrum against the head on the Farnborough try line. Eastleigh’s forwards continued to dominate the half giving their backs a steady platform for passages of attack and play.
The second half caught Eastleigh with their guard down, allowing Farnborough to score two tries. A wake call for Eastleigh saw them fight back to score two more tries, one from a great line out set piece placed over the line by Paul Fudio (welcomed back from serious injury) and the second a great individual try from John Lynch, securing the bonus point for Eastleigh.
No weaknesses in the Eastleigh side this week, a strong performance throughout with exceptional performances from Dan Achilles and Adam Kidd. Lloyd Bennett’s continued accuracy from his boot saw the score climb.
Final score 12 - 35
Eastleigh lost their play off game against a well drilled Old Blues team 10-32
Eastleigh were denied possession for long spells of the game but never gave up and through a determined effort they were awarded a penalty try, converted by Lloyd Bennett who also kicked a penalty in the first half.
Eastleigh can be proud of their season and look forward to a summer break before recommencing their training for next season.
Eastleigh ended the season on a high note defeating a determined and resolute Fareham Heathens 59 - 0.
In all Eastleigh scored 9 tries with nil against. Tries by:-
First Half
Peter O'Donnell
Peter Noonan
Mark Dunleavy
Richie O'Donnell
3 Conversions by Lloyd Bennett
Second Half
Shaun Hayes
Martin Kirby
Adam Kidd (in his new yellow boots)
Richie O'Donnell
Peter O'Donnell
4 Conversions by Lloyd Bennett
This puts Eastleigh in the right mood for the big game next week against Surrey team Old Blues in the Play Offs to determine who gets promoted next season.
In an exciting game Eastleigh came out on top in their game against Southampton winning 39-28
Southampton scored a try in the first 10 minutes followed by,
First Half
Steve Jerram scored 2 tries, converted by Lloyd Bennett, Russell Smith scored 1 try (unconverted) and Lloyd Bennett scored a penalty.
Half time score 22-5 to Eastleigh
Second Half Southampton managed to get within 1 point of Eastleigh until the following scores,
Lloyd Bennett scored a penalty with both Zen Chong and Peter Noonan scoring 1 try each with both tries being converted by Lloyd Bennett.
It wasn't until the last 10 minutes that Eastleigh made sure the game was theirs but all in all a good all round performance by both teams.
Eastleigh go into their last League game looking for a good performance to gain home advantage in the play offs the following week.
Eastleigh were well beaten by a well drilled New Milton side but it will be remembered more for a serious injury to Paul Fudio who broke his ankle in 3 places. However, Eastleigh never gave up and were rewarded with a try by Greg King. John Palacio Lynch kicked 2 penalties and Mike Holmes was outstanding.
This adds to a long list of injured players for Eastleigh and could impact on the remaining games of the season.
After 2 successive defeats Eastleigh came back with a bang against Millbrook and ran in 7 tries in their 41-14 victory.
From the Kick off they scored an unconverted try by Martin Kirby followed by a converted try from Jack Curtis who had an excellent game. Adam Kidd and Jack Curtis again both scored tries converted by Russell Smith with Millbrook scoring a converted try for a half time score of 26-7.
Millbrook scored first in the second half but Eastleigh defense was superb and they scored tries by Adam Kidd, Peter Noonan and Wayne Rawlings (all unconverted).
Dave Craddock had an excellent game in the centre and this win goes a long way to cement the runners up spot in Hampshire Div 1.
This really was a game of 2 halves. Andover scored a penalty shortly after kick off but from then until half time it was all Eastleigh and they were rewarded with a push over try scored by Paul Fudio (unconverted). Half time score was 5 - 3
In the second half Andover upped their game scoring two converted tries and two penalties. Eastleigh were only able to score a well taken try by Peter O'Donnell which was converted by Lloyd Bennett. Eastleigh forwards dominated the first half with Peter Noonan outstanding behind the scrum creating many opportunities. Man of the match award went to Capt. Russell Smith.
All in all a well fought game by two teams desperate to win. The game was marred by a bad injury to Lloyd Bennett who will be out for the rest of the season which adds to Eastleigh's long list of injured players this season.
Eastleigh were no match for a strong and determined Romsey team who dominated the first half of the match running in 2 tries and a penalty to go 15 up and they continued their domination until the last 20 minutes of the game when Eastleigh finally regained some of their form and were rewarded with a charge down try by Tony Fudio and a penalty try, both converted by Lloyd Bennett.
Eastleigh's cause was not helped by their poor discipline having two yellow cards, a red and a man sent off, ending the game with 14 men.
Romsey were more organised on the day and fully deserved their win but Eastleigh never gave up and will treat this game as a wake up call for the rest of the season.
If Eastleigh are to regain their promotion chances they must work hard on the training fields this week for their forthcoming fixtures.
This was one of the hardest games of the season so far for Eastleigh and after a lot of attacking rugby by both sides the first half ended nil all.
The first to score in the second half were New Milton with an unconverted try after which Eastleigh attacked and were rewarded with a push over try accredited to John Weatherall who had another fine game. The try was converted by Russell Smith which ended the scoring in a tight hard fought game by both sides.
Eastleigh started strong with the wind behind them, dominating in every area on the field especially in the set piece scrums. Eastleigh used their heavy pack to their advantage, mauling the weaker USP all over the park.
3 scores in the 1st half saw Eastleigh setting a high pace game.
Scorers: Paul Fudio
Sean Hayes
Jon Weathrall
2 conversions and x1 penalty scored by skipper Russ Smith.
2nd half saw a lapse in concentration from the Eastleigh players which allowed USP to score 2 converted tries in a short space of time.
The Eastleigh lads new the bonus point was a must but the USP players kept them at bay on their line for 15 minutes before a neat bit of phase play rugby saw Tony Fudio go over the line in the last minute of the game. Try converted by Jon Lynch.
All in all a good game and if Eastleigh can get rid of the 20 minute quiet spell in the 2nd half, they will be a force to be reckoned with and be able to beat anyone who stands in their way.
Man of the Match was Adam (Arnie) Payne.
Eastleigh started off with great determination and scored a penalty (Lloyd Bennett) within the first 10 minutes, followed by a try by David Craddock (unconverted) and a further try by Paul Fudio (unconverted) to lead 13-0 at half time.
After the turn around Ventnor responded by attacking strongly and scored an unconverted try. From then on Ventnor had the best of the second half and Eastleigh made too many mistakes but were unlucky to have a try disallowed in the last segment of the game.
Man of the match for Eastleigh was David Craddock who covered a great deal of ground during the game.
The game was well refereed by Gary Griffin.
In challenging conditions Eastleigh overcame a determined Farnborough team scoring a try late in the first half by Wayne Rawlings (unconverted)
In the second half Eastleigh came out with more determination to master the conditions and scored a try by Adam Kidd, (unconverted) followed by a try and conversion by Tim Liston. Eastleigh pressed hard for their extra bonus point but just failed to reach their target.
Eastleigh's defence was again solid and outstanding for Eastleigh was John Weatherall and Man of the Match was Dan Achilles.
Considering the conditions both team tried to run the ball whenever possible and the final score was 17 - 3 to Eastleigh.
Eastleigh struggled to get going against a much improved resident IOW team. It wasn't until the last minute of the first half that they managed to run the ball and score a well taken try by Wayne Rawlings converted by Lloyd Bennett.
In the second half it was a different story when they ran in tries from:-
Wayne Rawlings 2
Richie O'Donnell 1
Lloyd Bennet 1
Micky Holmes 1
Russell Smith 1
Lloyd Bennet with 3 conversions
Eastleigh were comfortable winners 43-0
It was a good overall performance considering they haven't had a game for the last 4 weeks because of weather and Christmas break.
Eastleigh roared to the top of the League Table with a 39-5 win over a resiliant Southampton.
Tries from:-
Lloyd Bennet 1 + 3 conversations and 1 penalty
Simon Hicks 2
Tony Fudio 1
Jack Curtis 1
Adam Kidd 1
This was a scrappy game in places due to the cold and wintery conditions. Once Eastleigh moved the ball away from the scrum they opened up play for the backs who ran the ball well.
Adam Kidd was prominent in the forwards with Tony Fudio and Simon Hicks took his chances well. All in all a pleasing day for Eastleigh considering the uncertainty that the match would be played due to the weather.
Tries by Simon Hicks (2), Richie O'Donnell and Dan Achilles with 2 Conversions and 1 penalty by Lloyd Bennett gave Eastleigh a crucial win against strong opposition.
As usual the game between these two teams was close and end to end but Eastleigh deserved their win as on the day they were the more determined and stronger team. Outstanding for Eastleigh were Simon Hicks in the centre and Lloyd Bennett with his kicking but man of the match was Paul Taylor for excellent scrummaging with close contender Adam Kidd, whose all round play and line out activity supported the overall performance of Eastleigh.
Final score 19 - 27.
The game was well refereed and controlled by John Holden. This win keeps Eastleigh on track to catch current runaway league leaders Andover.
Even with 8 players not available through injury Eastleigh were too strong for Romsey and roared to a resounding 49-7 win.
Try scorers were:-
Dave Craddock
Richie O'Donnell
Jack Curtis
Lloyd Bennett
Lloyd Bennett converted 3 tries plus a penalty kick before Romsey came back and scored at the end of the first half with the half time score line 29-7.
Second half started with a penalty by Lloyd Bennett followed by tries from:-
Paul Fudio (unconverted)
Jack Curtis (unconverted)
Tim Liston - converted by Lloyd Bennett
This was a good all round performance by Eastleigh. Simon Hicks created some good breaks in the centre and Jack Curtis was prominent throughout the game. Richie O'Donnell and Richard Clark made their presence felt throughout the game.
Quick hands and a strong defense allowed Eastleigh to win 28-10 against a lively US Portsmouth team.
After defending their line for the first 10 minutes Eastleigh broke and Wayne Rawlins went over to score the first try (converted by Lloyd Bennett). Shortly afterwards Gregg King had to leave the field of play due to an injured knee and was replaced by Captain Russell Smith. US Portsmouth capitalised on this change by scoring an unconverted try before some smart handling saw Wayne Rawlins score his second try (converted by Lloyd Bennett). Richie O'Donnell completed the first half score with another try converted by Lloyd Bennett.
Second half US Portsmouth ralied and scored another unconverted try but Eastleigh were too strong and Tim Liston scored a try set up by quick ball, converted by Lloyd Bennett whose kicking was solid and reliable.
Once again Richie O'Donnell had a good game and the forwards got the better of their opponents on the day.
Despite the absence of several senior players Eastleigh’s current strong player squad ensured a comfortable, if not emphatic, 19 - 0 win over Fareham Heathens at Bishopstoke on Saturday. Eastleigh started strongly, containing Fareham within their own half and were awarded a penalty for a Fareham player illegally preventing the ball being released from a ruck. Fullback Lloyd Bennett however narrowly missed with his kick. Immediately from the restart Eastleigh drove back deep into the Fareham half through good runs by forwards Paul Taylor, Rich O’Donnell and Paul Fudio. Eastleigh, through their eagerness, repeatedly gave away the advantage through penalties conceded, which allowed the Fareham side to relieve the near constant pressure. Eventually this pressure resulted in a further penalty for Eastleigh. The Home side chose a running play rather than a kick at goal and this resulted in a try for Paul Fudio, which fullback Lloyd Bennett converted. Fareham eventually drove into Eastleigh territory through a number of powerful drives by their large forwards. Eastleigh, with the best defence record in their league, negated these efforts culminating in a strategic clearance kick by Zen Wai Chung to round off the half.
At half time the Eastleigh players were urged to play a more expansive game during the second period and spurred on by a vociferous crowd sought to do so despite Fareham seeking to play a tight containing game, almost exclusively among their forwards. Pete Noonan, Wayne Rawlings ran a number of attacking moves from the three-quarter line for Eastleigh which initially the Fareham players were able to counter. However a knock on provided Eastleigh with a scrum just outside the Fareham 22 meter line. Eastleigh secured the ball and a final pass to wing Dave Craddock enabled him to beat the defence and score Eastleigh’s second try. Again Lloyd Bennett kicked the conversion. Eastleigh then turned over a Fareham attack and fly half Tim Liston kicked into open space beyond the oncoming Fareham forwards. The following passage of play saw a number of Eastleigh’s moves getting near to the Fareham try line. From one of these, wing Jack Curtis was to benefit from a sharp pass to score Eastleigh’s 3rd try, which was not converted. As the match neared the end Fareham enjoyed some rare time in the Eastleigh 22 meter area. Eastleigh though won a turnover ball and some excellent passing through several pairs of hands swept up the field into the Fareham 22, creating excitement for the home supporters and with the prospect of a bonus point on offer. In the last minute of the game despite wing Dave Craddock touching the ball down over the Fareham try line it was adjudged that his touchdown had been a double movement with no try being awarded.
Eastleigh put in a good all round team performance to defeat a determined Ventnor side 42 - 3.
In the first five minutes of the first half Tim Liston kicked a penalty followed by a penalty from Ventnor but Eastleigh came back strongly with a pushover try credited to Paul Taylor (unconverted). This was quickly followed by good passing by the three quarters with Tim Liston going over in the corner, making the half time score 13-3
After the interval Eastleigh threw the ball around and their superior fitness showed as they scored 5 more tries, 2 converted. Second half scorers were:-
Wayne Rawlins - 1
Richie O'Donnell 1
Pete Noonan 1
Paul Fudio 2
Convertions by Tim Liston
Eastleigh finished on a high thoroughly deserving the final score.
Outstanding were Pete Noonan and John Weatherall, whose son Oscar was the Mascot of the day.
A very scrappy game. Eastleigh managed to overcome a determined Farnborough side with a scoreline of 25-7
Lloyd Bennett opened the scoring in the first five minutes with a penalty and in the last five minutes of the first half Tony Fudio scored a well taken try in the corner (unconverted) making the half time score 8-0
Farnborough came out in the second half with renewed determination and scored a good try (converted) but Lloyd Bennett replied for Eastleigh with another penalty, this was followed by the best move of the game culminating in a try for Richie O'Donnell. This was followed by a further try by sub Tim Liston which was converted by Lloyd Bennett.
The game ended with Eastleigh pressing for a bonus try but were narrowly pipped by the final whistle.
During the game Lloyd Bennett and Steve Shears made good contributions but man of the match was Richie O'Donnell.
Eastleigh proved to themselves that they have strength in depth this week as with 8 regular players out of action they still managed to achieve full bonus points in trouncing IOW 44-10.
IOW never gave up but were outclassed by Eastleigh. First half tries were scored by:-
P Noonan
S Jerram
P Fudio
J Weatherall
S Hayes
Two of which were converted by T Liston
Second half tries:-
R Sutherland (was injured scoring which necessitated the game being moved to pitch 2) where further tries were scored by:-
J Cook
P Fudio
Captain Russell Smith managed to get on for 10 minutes - his first since last season due to injury.
He commented that it was a great win and comforting to know that we have the resources to provide cover for the amount of injured players we are currently carrying.
Eastleigh lost the game they could have won if they hadn't given away so many penalties in the first half. They were on the defensive for most of the first half and defended their line well but gave away 4 penalties, 3 of which were converted, making the score 9-0 to Andover at half time.
Eastleigh came out in the second half with determination and scored an unconverted try by Simon Hicks (debut game). 10 minutes later Hicks again scored from an interception, running from the half way line, finishing in spectacular fashion. This try was converted by Tim Liston.
Eastleigh were unfortunate to have 2 more tries disallowed and from a loose ball on Eastleigh's 22 Andover raced through and scored, which was converted making the final score 16-12.
Eastleigh forwards had the upper hand on their opponents for most of the game and outstanding for Eastleigh were R O'Donnell and Z Wai Chung.
This was Eastleigh's first League game of the season and if they can keep up this performance they can look forward to a successful season.
Eastleigh fully deserved their 20-14 win in their last game against a strong Southampton side.
The amount of territory Eastleigh had in the first half ensured that they scored 2 tries, one from Wayne Rawlins and one for Paul Fudio (Capt of the day) with Southampton scoring a try and two penalties. Half time score was 10-11 to Southampton.
In the second half Eastleigh began by piling on the pressure and were rewarded with 2 tries from Arnie Payne, both unconverted and a late penalty from Southampton completed the scoring at 20-14.
Unfortunately for Eastleigh they lost Russell Smith after 15 minutes of the first half due to injury which weakened Eastleigh's lineout possession and conversion rate.
It was a fitting end to a successful season for Eastleigh and hopefully will lead to better things next season, perhaps even promotion.
Eastleigh probably played their best game of the season with open flowing rugby to see off Romsey 35-12
A penalty from Tim Liston within the first five started the scoring closely followed by a well taken try and conversion from Romsey after which Eastleigh were unstoppable. Tries followed from M Holmes, P O'Donnell and P Fudio, making the score at half time 18-7
Paul Fudio started off the second half with a try converted by Tim Liston quickly followed by a further try by Paul Taylor which Romsey replied with a try of their own followed by another try by Eastleigh's Dale Brenton with his first touch of the game having only been on for a minute.
This was a fast open flowing game by both teams and consolidates Eastleigh's position of third in the League with one game remaining. This was a particularly enjoyable game to watch and well refereed by Ashley Tomlinson.
Happy Easter
Eastleigh playing 15 man flowing rugby completely dominated and fully deserved their win of 34-0 against New Milton.
From the start they ran the ball with Martin Kirby going over in the corner, closely followed by a try by Shaun Hayes after a pushover of 22 yards by the forwards. Russell Smith brought the first half to a close with a try, all of which were unconverted. Half time score 15-0
In the second half they left off where they finished in the first half by two very good tries by Pete O'Donnell, both converted by Tim Liston. Paul Fudio completed the scoring with an unconverted try in the corner.
Final score 34-0
Considering the weather conditions the handling was superb and Stevie Jerram tackled well on the wing and Shaun Hayes shone as scrum half. This team is improving with every game.
This win means Eastleigh stay in third position in the League with only 2 more league games to play.
Eastleigh fully deserved their 28-11 win over US Portsmouth on Saturday. Portsmouth opened the scoring with a penalty but this was soon followed by a penalty from Russell Smith and a good break down the wing from Martin Kirby who then passed to Steve Jerram who scored a try under the posts (converted by Russell Smith). After some good work by the forwards Paul Fudio scored an unconverted try ending the first half with Eastleigh 15-3 up.
US Portsmouth opened the second half in the same fashion as the first with a penalty, followed by a try from Eastleigh's Paul Taylor (unconverted).Tim Liston kicked a penalty but US pressing hard followed this with an unconverted try. A pick up and dash for the line gave Paul Fudio a second well deserved try (unconverted).
The score reflected that Eastleigh is at it's best when it plays as a unified team.
Eastleigh took 20 minutes before they got into their stride by which time Fareham had scored a converted try and a penalty. Added to their problems they lost influential prop and Vice Captain Greg King with a broken knee cap.
However, Eastleigh managed to score a try by Julian King and a further one by Rich O'Donnell, converted by Russell Smith to turn around 13-12 at half time.
In the second half most of the scoring and play was by Eastleigh with a penalty by Russell Smith followed by a try from Jason Berry, converted by Russell Smith with a further penalty by Smith to finish a game which had become a bit scrappy.
Lloyd Attree on his first team debut this season performed well and Shaun Hayes had a powerful game at scrum half.
Eastleigh seconds 52 Fareham Heathens 8 in a merit table game.
Sunday's Cup game against Portsmouth University was a much better performance by a changed Eastleigh side due to injuries. It was a closer game than the score suggests with both sides running the ball at every opportunity. Portsmouth Uni just about deserved to win and the final score was 17 - 7 with Eastleigh's converted try coming from Stevie Jerram, converted by Tim Liston.
What a difference a week makes! Eastleigh came up against a form team in Petersfield on Saturday and were soundly beaten 41-5. They started off well and pressurised the visitors for the first 15 mins and were unfortunate not to score but after that Petersfield scored one converted try and one unconverted, making it 12 - 0 at half time.
In the second half Eastleigh started well and scored a try by Jack Curtis.
After this Eastleigh were on the back foot for the rest of the game, losing their discipline and giving away too many penalties.
At the end of the game they were rather lucky to come second.
Eastleigh gave their best performance yet this season in honour of their President's (Brian Russell-Taylor) birthday yesterday. Farnborough hosted a pre match lunch prior to the game and were generous in their hospitality.
Eastleigh scored a penalty in the first 5 minutes (Russell Smith) which was repeated by Farnborough 5 minutes later. After that Eastleigh went on the rampage playing excellent 15 man rugby. Russell Smith kicked another penalty followed by an excellent try from Dan Achilles, converted by Russell Smith. Rich O'Donnell chased and gathered the ball to score a try (unconverted) and the score at half time was 18 - 3
Eastleigh continued to dominate the second half with a further penalty kicked by Russell Smith followed up by a well worked try from Pete O'Donnell which was converted by Russell Smith. Eastleigh eased off and Farnborough scored a penalty and with some further determination scored a try in the last minute of the game.
This was an outstanding performance by Eastleigh playing excellent rugby with R O'Donnell and Paul Fudio giving outstanding performances and Russell Smith consolidating the scoreline with solid kicking.
The game was well refereed by Bob La Brocq who was over from Jersey.
2nd Team result - Eastleigh 41 Farnborough 34
Eastleigh overcame a determined Millbrook in a hard fought and sometimes scrappy game. Millbrook kicked 2 penalties to lead at half time 0-6
Following half time it was nearly all Eastleigh as they pounded the Millbrook line and from a quick tap penalty Martin Kirby scythed through the Millbrook defense to score an unconverted try. Five minutes before the end Eastleigh were awarded a penalty which Tim Liston kicked, after which they hung on to win 8-6. The Eastleigh forwards were again outstanding with a particularly good performance from the trio Paul Fudio, Dan Achilles and Greg King.
Eastleigh got back to winning ways against a determined Aldershot and Fleet side in a rather scrappy game. They turned round 12-0 due to a try from Paul Fudio, who had a great game, converted by Russell Smith, who also scored an unconverted try.
After the interval they scored two more unconverted tries to Dan Achilles and Pete Noonan to remain in third position in the League.
Aldershot and Fleet kept pounding away at Eastleigh's defence and finally scored an interception try by their centre which was converted and a penalty.
The game finished with a scoreline of 22-10 to Eastleigh. Perhaps Eastleigh were keeping some of their energy for next week when they have two consecutive games on Saturday and Sunday.
After a five week lay off Eastleigh had an unlucky loss 13-6. Alton scored first with an unconverted try in the first half and Eastleigh responded with a penalty from Russell Smith.
The second half was almost all Eastleigh as they attacked relentlessly up the slope. They scored what looked like a push over try but the Referee was the only one who did not see it and it wasn't awarded. They followed up with another penalty from Russell Smith. Alton, after a good move down the pitch, scored an unconverted push over try and although Eastleigh came back strongly they just failed to score again.
Eastleigh forwards were outstanding and Russell Smith was leading from the front.
Eastleigh 2nd fifteen lost 35-8 to Alton (at Alton).
In a scrappy game littered with penalties, mostly against Eastleigh in the tackle area after stopping their visitors. Eastleigh spent most of the first half in Romsey territory but failed to take the chances setup by marauding play by flankers Paul Fudio and Rich O’Donnell. Wayne Hayward made a good break and Wayne Rawlins was away but recalled for a forward pass. Another good move was stopped by crossing but the half was characterised by Romsey clearing their lines from penalties and Eastleigh’s sloppy kicking in return.
Eastleigh took the lead early in the second half when Russ Smith hit the spot after they had run the ball well out of defence. Romsey missed a chance to draw level with a penalty in front of the posts but from their first good attack the centre made a clean break to notch a converted try. As the darkness fell Eastleigh made progress with driving mauls to five metres but when a chance to regain the lead came they were penalised at the line to end a very disappointing game.
Final score was Eastleigh 3 Romsey 7
In a scrappy indiciplined game, Eastleigh deservedly won their game against New Milton to consolidate their position in Hampshire Division 1.
Tim Liston opened the scoring with a drop goal, followed by a penalty. Eastleigh then followed up with a try by P Noonan, converted by Tim Liston. New Milton scored two penalties making the half time score 6 - 13 to Eastleigh.
Early in the second half, perhaps the try of the season for Eastleigh, running the ball through several pairs of hands with Martin Kirby going over in the corner (unconverted).
New Milton followed this with two further unconverted tries but Eastleigh answered with a penalty from Tim Liston.
The game was spoilt by an injury to Tony Fudio and the last 10 minutes of the game had to be finished on the adjoining pitch.
Final score was 21-16 to Eastleigh
Eastleigh took time to settle and were 0-3 down within 15 (Penalty) minutes. They then got themselves together and with a good move by the forwards scored an unconverted try (P O'Donnell). Eastleigh gave away a further penalty in the first half making half time score was 5-6 to Fareham Heathens.
The second half was a dogged affair but after a good run by the three quarters Eastleigh's Tim Liston darted through the middle to score under the posts which he duly converted. From then Eastleigh's defense was tested by a constant barrage from the opposition but the defense was solid enough to keep the opposition from scoring.
The game was well refereed to such an extent that players could have learnt a lot by paying more attention to his advice.
Final score was 12-6 to Eastleigh
Eastleigh Memorial Match for Mike Whitecross.
On Saturday Eastleigh held a memorial match for Mike who was club Treasurer until he died of cancer earlier in the year. Dunvant a club from his native Wales brought a party of veterans who put on a great show of positive attractive rugby. Many of them had played senior rugby in Wales and they were a joy to watch winning by 48 – 19 with 36 points in the first half. Eastleigh put on one or two younger men in the second half and these players would have learnt from the experience. Both sides had a meal after the game and watched the New Zealand game on the big screen, although there was banter as the visitors wanted to see Wales playing Argentina. A great day with a good sum collected for cancer.
Eastleigh were beaten by a well organized team who ran the ball at every opportunity. The game was hampered by a howling gail which made handling difficult and Petersfield scored in the first five minutes with a converted try. Eastleigh rallied and eventually scored a push over try, credited to Andy Kidd (unconverted). Petersfield went on to score a further unconverted try in the first half with a half time score of 12-5.
In the second half Eastleigh pressed hard but bad handling gave the ball to the opposition who took advantage and increased their score to 27. Eastleigh backs found it challenging to cope with the weather conditions but the forwards put up a solid defense but couldn't cope with Petersfield's mobility.
Eastleigh turn it on. Eastleigh staged a tremendous come back in the second half to overturn a 10- 0 Farnborough lead. Both sides played lively rugby but the handling often wiled under the sound tackling. Eastleigh’s attacking kicks were returned with interest by Farnborough’s splendid full back. The visitors looked more dangerous with ball in hand and opened the scoring when their Fijian centre made a powerful outside break. Steve Jerram had a fine game on the wing for Eastleigh running strongly in attack and defence. Peter Noonan made a great break and moves with Paul Fudio and Wayne Rawlins put Eastleigh within range but Tim Liston missed a straightforward penalty. Eastleigh lost the ball in the Farnborough half and their left wing made a great diagonal run, picking up speed as the tacklers floundered to score a 70 m try.
In he second half play continued end to end with the home side more dangerous and they spent much time camped in the Farnborough 22. A moment of brilliance occurred when Sean Hayes kept the ball in play with an amazing touchline catch. Dan Achilles made a couple of powerful bursts and got the touchdown when Eastleigh drove to the line from a line out. Russ Smith converted. Eastleigh’s pack started to dominate their heavier opponents and as the pressure built Farnborough began to concede penalties. Smith was unlucky when a penalty hit the post, bounced onto the bar and was adjudged to have landed on the wrong side. Eastleigh continued to attack and a long penalty shot dropped just short. Smith soon levelled the scores with an easier kick. From the kick off Rich O’Donnell scorched down the left wing, Mick Holmes and Paul Fudio carried on and forced a penalty which Smith converted with an excellent kick to take the lead. With time running out it was anyone’s game. From a fiercely contested ruck in the Eastleigh man of the match Paul Fudio , who had proved he is just as effective at blind side, emerged with the ball and punted it far downfield. The chase started and Eastleigh players swarmed to the breakdown near the line. Sean Hayes tore himself out and fell over the line to the delight of a delirious crowd. The whistle for no side followed shortly. This victory was the reward for a never say die spirit.
Eastleigh 2nd XV went down 65 -10 at Farnborough, scorers Glen Lawrence and Manny Feriera.
Late withdrawals and the early start caused Eastleigh to make the long trip to Uckfield with only two replacements, but skipper Paul Taylor was proud of the way his team played. It was end to end with both teams moving the ball at every chance, but the tackling was excellent and made some of the moves look over ambitious. Without a specialist hooker Eastleigh struggled to get good ball from the scrums against a well drilled pack but they took charge of the line-out with Russ Smith again prominent. From a clean take they set up a driving maul and made 30 m freeing Peter Noonan whose long break set up the position from which Tim Liston opened the score with a penalty.
Uckfield took over the next quarter their kicking in attack and defence giving their visitors a lesson. The Eastleigh defence was equal to it with Paul Fudio and Rich O’Donnell outstanding, but they weren’t able to prevent Uckfield leading at H.T. with two well-struck penalties and a tremendous drop goal.
The second half followed a similar pattern with neither side looking likely to score. One bit of powerful rugby came when an Uckfield centre cleared a dangerous situation with a Lomu like run breaking three tackles before being crashed down by Peter Noonan. With time running out Eastleigh were held in their 22, their tenacious defence held out, but when they did regain the ball a long clearing kick fell just short and the home left wing sprinted down the touch line for a spectacular try, converted with a terrific kick from the edge of touch. Playing now for pride Rich O’Donnell raced from a half way scrum almost to the line. From the line out Eastleigh drove at the line and after three penalties Adam Kidd forced his way over only to have his try disallowed by the badly positioned referee. The final whistle then blew.
Eastleigh scored a comfortable if unconvincing victory. They made a superb start. Having kicked off they turned over the ball from the catcher and slick handling gave winger John Cook space and he raced in from 30 m without a hand laid on him. Despite being on the attack for most of the game Eastleigh were restricted by tenacious tackling by the home side, and missed passes and wayward clearing kicks allowed Aldershot into the game After conceding a penalty Eastleigh were close to scoring when the final pass was intercepted. In a great chase Martin Kirby caught the sprinter but another penalty under the posts put Aldershot ahead. The heavy overnight rain had left a damp surface and made coherent movements difficult but the Eastleigh pack took charge dominating the set scrums and put last week’s line out troubles behind them. Jumping at two Russ Smith got clean possession off his own ball and stole several of theirs. A drive from a line out resulted in the ball being held up over the home line. The 5m scrum was controlled skilfully and no 8 ,John Weatherill
touched down. From a heel against the head in midfield touch was found close to the line. Aldershot got the ball back but the bounce beat the scrum half and Andy Browning was on hand to score an opportunist try.
After HT another forward drive with Tony Fuidio prominent took play well into the home 22 where Dan Achilles broke off and scored near the corner. Tim Liston converted with an excellent kick.
A sloppy kick out of defence was snapped up by the home flyhalf and he dropped a neat goal. This finished the scoring despite Eastleigh’s efforts.to get the backs moving, their handling could escape the clutches of the Aldershot midfield, who appeared suspiciously in front of the rear foot. A tremendous break by flanker P:aul Fudio showed how to breach the defence but sadly he put a toe in touch just before he touched down.
Next week Eastleigh venture in to Sussex to play Uckfield in the Junior Vase.
Eastleigh 7 Alton 10
This was a dour game between two well matched sides,and a desperately disappointing result for Eastleigh who contrived to lose a game they should have put away before HT having had at least 60% territory and possession.. Their backs showed more enterprise but vital passes went down. Peter Noonan made one splendid break but the Alton defence held, and Eastleigh twice had the ball over the line to be called back for knock ons. Throughout the first half Eastleigh wasted field position with flawed tactics and throwing at the line-out. Alton mounted their first real attack after half an hour and opened the scoring with a well struck penalty from near touch.
Soon after HT the home side lost much ground for a late tackle but regained the ball in their 22 and a promising counter attack foundered with a pass to space. Eastleigh had a chance to draw level but the penalty attempt drifted wide. At last Eastleigh got decent line out ball from throws to no 2, and Paul Taylor broke from one and Paul Fudio was on hand to score. Tim Liston converted. With time running out Eastleigh failed to clear their line and the Alton scrummage, which had been solid throughout the game, pinned Eastleigh near their line and turned the screw. After three penalties at 5 m scrums the pressure told and Eastleigh conceded a penalty try, which was converted with the last kick of the game.
In Merit two Alton 34 Eastleigh 2nd XV 10.
10th October 2009
US( Portsmouth) 3 Eastleigh 38
On a lovely afternoon at US Eastleigh put on a display to match the conditions. After an early exchange of penalties(Tim Liston’s from near H/W) Eastleigh’s pack took control and provided a solid platform on which no 8 John Weatherill and scrum half Sean Hayes gave a stream of clean ball for the backs. Pete Noonan placed a grubber perfectly and Peter O’Donnell picked up the rolling ball expertly and sores for the first of five tries, all converted by Liston. A blind side move involving Paul Taylor and Hayes gave Rich O’Donnell a long run down the wing and when held at the line he offloaded to Paul Fudio to score. Fudio was soon in the action again. US kicked a penalty to the corner but threw in too deep, Fudio collected at the end of the line and kicked long and high, caught the ball himself but sadly, when held, did not see the three man overlap outside him. Eastleigh could have doubled the score in the next few minutes. In quick succession Noonan and Peter O’Donnell went through on the burst but failed to hold on the pass and then Rich O’Donnell rounded his man, chipped over the full back but failed to ground the ball. The first half was rounded off by Liston. Weatherill and Hayes again combined well from a scrum on the 22 and gave him room to loop round the centres to score without a hand laid on him.
Eastleigh continued in an enterprising way after the interval with a mazy run by Martin Kirby but the final pass went to ground. US failed to clear and the Eastleigh pack drove them off the ball giving a clear opening from which Noonan scored. Tony Fudio made the final score when he alertly charged down the full back’s kick, Taylor picked up the rebound and drove to the posts to put Noonan over for his second try.
US finished the game with ten minutes attack but the Eastleigh tackling did not falter in their pride to stop their line being crossed. A very satisfying all-round performance.
Eastleigh 2nd XV 34 Ryde 0 Merit Two
Eastleigh went to Farnborough for a friendly and met a freezing gale force wind. With first use of it they spent much of the time in the home half, but passing was made difficult and promising attacks were foiled by stray passes and several interceptions as the ball held up in the wind. Eastleigh controlled the scrums and Mick Holmes at no 8 broke, fed Sean Hayes and the move was stopped by a penalty converted by Russ Smith.
Farnborough tried to run the ball out with their full back prominent and it took one crashing tackle by Pete Noonan to stop him. A clear line out catch by Tony Fudio and a driving run by Paul Taylor set up a spot for a second Smith penalty, 6-0. As HT approached the home side surged into attack held up by a penalty. The clearing kick failed to reach touch and they got on the scoreboard with a well struck penalty. 6-3.
Eastleigh made better use of the ball after the interval an alert move by Rich O'Donnell put Rob Sutherland in at the corner.11-3. Farnborough foozled the drop out and from the midfield scrum Eastleigh went on the attack again. Live wire Zen moved into the back row and Andy Browning came on to hook and play was taken to the right corner. A clean heel and quick hands took the ball to the left corner and Jack Curtis who had just come on scored with his first touch, Tim Liston converted from wide out. 18-3. From the drop out Eastleigh's clearance fell short and the home full back put a superb kick in the corner, where they stole the line-out for the first time and went over wide out. 18-8.
Dan Achilles broke in his 22 and the move carried 60 m by Noonan, Curtis and Wayne Rawlins who cleverly kept the ball alive near touch. A penalty followed kicked by Liston who had another after a fine driving maul. 24-8. Eastleigh kept up the pressure with good clean catching from line-outs, and Steve Jerram was held close to the line.From another good scrum Liam Wood spun his way out of several tackles before crashing over. Liston completed the scoring with a great touchline conversion. 31-8.
Snatching victory from the jaws of defeat never applied more than in this game. Millbrook led until five minutes from the end having been sharper than Eastleigh for much of the game. After five minutes their winger out paced his opponent to score wide out and then after a midfield turnover they took advantage of a friendly bounce with quick backing up to score in the other corner. Eastleigh livened up and after Pete Noonan took play deep into the 22 and forward drive gave Adam Kidd a chance and he crashed over, Russ Smith converted. Millbrook kicked a penalty but as HT approached Eastleigh defence tightened , although some of the clearing kicks failed to find touch and the home side ran the ball back at every opportunity. Half Time score 13-7
Eastleigh drew closer from a Smith penalty and after a long break Peter O'Donnell camped in the home 22 but showed little penetration. Paul Fudio charged down a kick but the rebound eluded him. At this stage Eastleigh's line-out, usually a prolific source of possession, failed to satisfy the referee and free kicks and scrums lost promising positions. Another fine kick by Pete Noonan provided relief and when a drop kick failed to reach touch skipper Paul Taylor rallied his troops from the scrum and with jut five minutes left Eastleigh broke from the scrum and Steve Jerram rounded his man on the outside and raced over in the corner to seal a rather fortunate win.
Eastleigh 2nds were without a game as Millbrook 2nds failed to raise a side.
Eastleigh made a splendid start to the new league season, skipper Paul Taylor reckoned it was an outstanding team performance showing the work done in training. They outplayed and out paced Southampton, playing enterprising rugby the display only marred by the number of penalties conceded. Alignment in the backs was food to give the space for incisive running. Eastleigh opened the scoring after only five minutes, Adam Kidd finishing a move between backs and forwards with man of the match Tony Fudio to the fore. Promising positions were wasted by penalties and when one attack broke down Southampton broke away and only a fine tackle by Peter O'Donnell waved the day. Play was even with the big visitors' pack making it difficult for Eastleigh to get clean line-out ball. With half time approaching Eastleigh forced a scrum deep in the Southampton 22 and Paul Fudio showed skill in breaking and racing wide to make a gap outside the centres to get a pass from which he scored a try, converted by Russ Smith. Half Time score 12-0
The lead was soon increased after good handling, Peter O'Donnell broke near the posts and Sean Hayes was up to score. The drop out went straight and from the half way scrum Eastleigh set up yet another attack for Steve Jerram to score. Skipper Paul Taylor powered through for a try, Smith converted. The pack were now well in charge and after two powerful scrimmage drives the position was set up and Martin Kirby made no mistake, Smith converted 36-0
The last League game of the season couldn't have turned out better as every result went our way, with both East Dorset & New Milton loosing to drop below us in the table. Two great tries by Pete O'Donnell with one conversion and four penalties from Russ Smith saw us safely through to remain in Hampshire One next season.
A poor game marred by some indifferent referring in which we only had two Russ Smith penalties. Southampton scored an unconverted try mid way through the second half, and another one with the very last move of the match, a penalty kick which missed but bounced kindly for the chasing opponent to beat our lads to the touchdown. A win on 18 April at home is needed, but still may not be enough if other results don't go our way.
A game which could have gone either way right up to the last ten minutes, when we were leading 18-16, until we allowed New Milton to score a converted try in the corner. The lads didn't get into the New Milton half for at least 20 minutes when Steve Jerram got over for a good try. A better second half saw a try by Pete O'Donnell converted by Russ smith, who also kicked two penalties. For the last few minutes of the game we were camped on their line but couldn't get over..
A great win to move us up the Hampshire One table thanks to the other relegation teams losing their games. What a difference a week makes, when last week against Romsey we gifted them the points by kicking away good possession. This week we held onto the ball and waited until we were in scoring positions. Two tries came from Paul Taylor and one each from Jack Curtis and Tim Liston, with three conversions and one penalty by Russ Smith. Rich O'Donnell excelled in his new role as flanker.
As half of the First XV squad were out with injury or unavailable, it was a very mixed bunch that took the field in this important League game. However, the Second XV players drafted in took their chance and Ryan Dack barged over for a great try in the first five minutes. Playing well against a strong Romsey side, we increased the lead through a Tim Liston penalty. On top with just a few seconds of the first half to go our usual awful kicking out of hand gifted Romsey a converted try. The second half was more even with Romsey taking the lead through a try and penalty. We continued to kick away good possession and all looked lost till four minutes from the end when Manny Ferreira raced over under the posts, and also converted.
A most welcome win in this very tight League game thanks to a great team try by Martin Kirby, converted by Russ Smith who also hit three penalties. Despite our usual poor kicking out of hand, our defence was massive in holding onto this win, especially in the last fifteen minutes. Every player stood up and was counted, none better than Tony Fudio, Paul Taylor and Wayne Rawlins.
Another defeat in the league now leaves us fighting a relegation battle with only seven more games to play. Our usual problem of being unable to score when in good positions, plus the usual awful chip kicks when in possession, allowed Sandown to run in three tries. Our only points coming from a Russ Smith penalty.
Yet another narrow defeat to Services, yet it looked all up at half time as we turned round 24-7 down. With the wind in the first half Services better backs caused havoc and scored long range tries. Our forwards were easily a match for Services, and Paul Fudio went over for a try converted by Russ Smith. The second half was a different game altogether as our forwards lived in their half but could only manage one try, converted by Smith, with a Smith penalty. Despite losing we moved up a place in the league table on points difference as East Dorset lost away to Southampton.
A disappointing game, marred by some poor decisions by the officials, which the lads should have won by half time. We gave up the opportunity to get three easy points on the board first by running a penalty right in front of the posts, a decision which came back to haunt us at the final whistle. Soton then kicked their penalty and scored an unconverted try. Late in the game the lads scored two converted tries which proved too little too late. The first half of the league season is now over so we approach 2009 with the need to get some early wins under our belts.
A competitive first half, when Russ Smith put over a penalty, turned into a scrappy second half with our lads unable to penetrate the home defence. The only good points of the game coming from the outstanding defence of Paul Taylor, Martin Kirby and Rich O'Donnell.
A vital League game we had won until the very last minute when US were awarded a penalty try. Eight points clear with only five minutes to go we managed to give them a kickable penalty and that last minute penalty try. The ref blew for full time once the conversion had gone over. Rich O'Donnell and Sean Hayes scored tries, with russ Smith putting over three excellent penalties and two conversions. To say the lads were distraught in the dressing room is an understatement.
At last all the hard work came together as the lads played the conditions better than Alton, and made the right decisions when it mattered. A good try by Paul Taylor, converted by Tim Liston was the score at half time. In the second half strong tackling from the whole team, especially John Weatherall in the forwards and all the backs, kept Alton out. Tim Liston added a penalty for the only score in the second half.
Despite scoring two tries to Sandown's one, the lads conceded penalties which Sandown converted. Steve Fuller and Paul Taylor scored our tries in a solid and brave performance all round, especially the tackling, against a strong Sandown outfit.
Yet again the lads had a game for the taking but gave away possession with poor kicking and technical play in the backs. As usual the forwards dominated the game but only had an Adam Payne try to show for it, with Tim Liston putting over two penalties. A chance of tactics , or players, may have to be introduced if we want to avoid a relegation battle at the end of the season.
Despite losing eight members of the First XV squad through unavailability and injury, the lads put on a great display to beat New Milton by five tries to two. The Fudio brothers were outstanding in the pack, both scoring tries, while Tim Liston deputising at scrum half got the backs going well. Due to the depleted players injured captain Dave Craddock played a cameo role on the wing. Tries by Paul Fudio, Tony Fudio, Tim Liston, Mick Holmes and Pete O'Donnell, with two conversions by Tim Liston.
Despite second row Russ Smith dropping out at the last minute through illness, our forwards dominated at the scrum and with their driving play. The backs however carried on from where they left off last week giving away possession with poor kicks, bad passing and loose handling. Rich O'Donnell kicked two penalties, but the team deserved more points from their play. However, a bright spot on the day was the excellent play from all the Second XV backs in beating Fordingbridge 2 by 20-0. This will give the selectors more options for next weeks game at home to New Milton.