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Fordingbridge RFC suffer Hampshire Vase semi-final heartbreak




The Millbrook scrum-half, closely monitored by the the Fordingbridge defence, keeps the play going
The Millbrook scrum-half, closely monitored by the the Fordingbridge defence, keeps the play going

Hampshire Vase: Fordingbridge RFC 9-16 Millbrook Rugby Club

FORDINGBRIDGE RUGBY CLUB endured a disappointing end to their Hampshire Vase run, falling to a 9-16 semi-final home defeat at the hands of Millbrook RFC.

It was the third time the two sides had met this season, with Fordingbridge posting a home win and an away draw in the Hants Premier earlier in the campaign.

‘Bridge knew they were in for a tough fixture, but sadly the game did not quite live up to expectations as both teams struggled to find their rhythm throughout.

Large crowds

In front of a large crowd of supporters, Fordingbridge kicked off with the slight wind and the sun on their backs. They had most of the early territory and were soon awarded a penalty converted by Mat Norton.

Fordingbridge applied further pressure but the Millbrook defence held strong. Finally in the 19th minute, another penalty came Fordingbridge’s way which Norton duly converted for a slender six-point lead.

Shortly before the break Millbrook scored an unconverted try to make it 6-5 with it all to play for in the second half.

With the advantage of the breeze and setting sun behind them, Millbrook controlled the early part of the second period and took the lead with a penalty. They then stretched their advantage further with an unconverted try for a 6-13 lead.

With ten minutes to play Fordingbridge won a penalty and elected to take the three points which closed the gap to four points.

But it was not to be for the home side as a late Millbrook penalty finally decided the outcome and sent the visitors through to the Hants Vase final.

Fordingbridge captain, Harry Hitching, commented: “It has been a long time since Fordingbridge have failed to score a try at home, which just seems to sum up the afternoon for us, but congratulations to Millbrook on making the final.”

Fordingbridge are back in league action this weekend, away to Gosport and Fareham in the Hants Premier.



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