The Ventnor 2nd XV travelled to Southampton on 3rd October 2026 to face Saint Romsey in Hampshire Counties Six. Despite last-minute player call-offs and a lighter squad, the team put up a spirited performance. The first 20 minutes were evenly contested, played mostly in the midfield. Key contributions came from Max Henley with excellent kicking, and strong runs from Ben Cooper and Ben Westbrook. John Waghorn also caused issues at the breakdowns. Although Saint Romsey eventually secured a comfortable lead and won the match 71-7, Ventnor fought back with determined carries from Harry Colson and Henrick Brown. Brad Francis made a significant run, bringing Ventnor close to the try line, with Iain Reeves and Ewan Castle also making strong efforts. Ewan Castle scored Ventnor's sole try, converted by Warren Riches. Max Henley was named A J Wells Man of the Match, and Ben Westbrook received The Red Funnel Moment of the Match award.
The previous Saturday, 26th September 2026, the Ventnor 1st XV played at home against Tottonians in Hampshire Counties Two, losing 12-29. The team struggled with lineout issues and late-game discipline against a strong kicking game from the visitors. Ventnor started well defensively, and Josh Ford scored an individual try, converting it to lead 7-0. Tottonians responded with a penalty and a converted try to take the lead. Despite defensive efforts from Lewy Morton, Cody Hayman, and Dan Lythgoe, Tottonians extended their lead. In the second half, Alec Bulpitt scored a try for Ventnor after good work from Dan Lythgoe and Arran Robinson. However, a yellow card for Jim Pemberton and subsequent penalties allowed Tottonians to secure their victory. Head coach Damien Marriott noted that the team looked dangerous when in the opposition's twenty-two but failed to create enough opportunities.
The Ventnor 1st XV team included Robinson, Gilbey, D. Lythgoe, L. Morton (capt), Hayman, Banks, Bulpitt, H. Wheeler, J. Ford, H. Ottley, Souter, Graham, Coghlan, H. Lythgoe, and E. Blake, with subs Rushton, Pemberton, and Broomfield. Arran Robinson was named A J Wells Man of the Match, and Jim Pemberton received The Red Funnel Moment of the Match. The Howden Insurance Supporter of the Day was Danny Newbury. Coaches were Damien Marriott, Clive Cardwell-Hill, Andy Teague, and Todd Riches, with physio Sarah Watt.
Looking ahead, the Ventnor 1st XV will play Fordingbridge at Watcombe on 10th October. The Ventnor 2nd XV will play a friendly against The Isle of Wight 2nd XV at Wootton, also with a 3:30 pm kick-off. For further details, James Morton can be contacted at james@ventnorrfc.com or on 07901 938317.
