Farnham 2s / 3s Squad 5 – 49 US Portsmouth 1s / 2s Squad

This was a hastily arranged fixture after the original opposition cried off. US also had problems gaining a fixture and had twice failed to secure a game, so in the event, both teams were relieved to be running out in what will surely be the last of the ‘summer’ sunshine.

Despite the final score, Farnham have a lot to look forward to in the upcoming season. With US Portsmouth plying their trade in Hampshire 1 this fixture was never likely to be anything other than an away win but the manner in which Farnham conducted themselves was a credit to the club. Mixing the Hornets and Warriors teams, Farnham had the rare luxury of being able to field a different team for each half of the game, this hampered their competitiveness, but the priority was making sure every one that turned up had a game.

However, the unfamiliarity became evident from the kick off when US ran in a try in the first minute. Farnham composed themselves quickly to limit any further scoring opportunities until the 20 minute mark when a Farnham lineout was tapped back and the loose ball was gathered by Portsmouth. The ball was quickly moved down the back line to outflank Farnham and take the lead to 0-14. The second quarter was a tighter affair as Farnham began to exert some pressure of their own and the home team had all the running for the last ten minutes of the half. Finally, in the dying seconds, Farnham got the try their hard work deserved when Paul Mizzi scored in the corner. Half time and the score was 5-14.

With a complete change of personnel taking the field, against the now established Portsmouth line-up, it was unsurprising that the opposition ran in a number of unanswered tries in the remaining two quarters. Although Farnham had their own forays into opposition territory they were few and far between. The visitors’ combinations, especially in mid-field, were gelling well and an improving offload game saw US break the Farnham line on a number of occasions. Although last ditch defending managed to deny the first assault on a number of occasions there always seemed to be more supporting players waiting in the wings. US Portsmouth eventually ran out 5-49 winners.

This game was a positive start to the season for many reasons and the never say die attitude of the players can only be applauded. And, with a little bit more composure in possession, Farnham could have easily scored more than their solitary try.

Farnham have been working on an expansive game plan in the closed season and will be looking to bring that brand of rugby to their next warm up games. And with more players available for selection next week competition for places will be fierce. The guys that played today have staked their claim for the starting shirts and it’s up to those that missed out to put the effort in during training to try and prise the shirt away. Next weekend, the Hornets face Chobham 3s away with the Warriors looking to confirm their game during the week.