After a long festive mid season break, the mighty Mariners returned to the field of play with all the flair and passion we have grown to expect of this emerging force from leafy Lymington.

During the festive break in fixtures, the Mariners continued their training regime - fitness, individual, unit and team work on the Astro pitch at the recreation centre. This dedication to development has reaped its rewards.

If you would like to join the Mariners train, you will be warmly welcomed at 7.00 pm on Tuesday evenings at the Astro, Lymington Recreation Centre.

The league match against Trojans in the first half of the season, played at Woodside was a close encounter and the mighty Mariners were well drilled and rehearsed for this return fixture in Eastleigh.

The game got underway with an immediate penalty being awarded to Trojans. In times gone by, this would have halted the Mariners stride. No such chance these days. The self belief and confidence oozes from the Mariners. Soon after Max Williams converted a twelve meter penalty to even the score.
Mitchell Sullivan crossed the line for a try that was a direct result of outstanding scrummaging followed by a double pod play from the Mariners pack.
It is difficult for the Mariners' coach to be annoyed by Tom Crisell's lack of off load passing when he has a habit of gliding through the opposition defence, as he did on Saturday to score a glorious try.
Commando man Max Williams converted his own try to bring the score to a healthy 3 - 19 in Lymington's favour.
The Mariners were encouraged to advance into Trojans territory through powerful driving runs by Matt Toms, ably supported by try scoring vice captain Freddie Lawder. Support play has been a key factor in the Mariners' success this season. Improved fitness levels and a more in-depth understanding of tactical play is paying dividends.
In the final quarter of the match, the game was virtually won but credit to the Trojans players, every physical contest was hard fought. The game was refereed to an exceptionally high standard and was played in the true spirit of rugby by all - a credit to every player from both teams who took to the field.

Mikey Jenner is renowned for his courageous and fearless tackling, where as his handling skills at times leaves something to be desired. Oh no, no, no. Not at this game! Mikey, in full flight on the wing, received a pass a meter behind him. Somehow, he trailed his arm behind him, scooped the ball and continued his sprint for the goal line to execute a 'man of the match' try. Brilliant, just brilliant.
Super star Danny Hodnett, playing in a new position for him at outside centre, left it to the last couple of minutes to put his name on the score sheet. Danny has been the find of the season and makes a huge impact whenever he plays. Some may say a tad greedy, others just think it! Nevertheless, Danny Hodnett is a force to be reckoned with when he has ball in hand. A forty meter run, avoiding his own players who stood watching as much as avoiding the opposition tackles, resulted in a sweet try converted by Max Williams to bring the final score to 3 - 38.

On Saturday 23rd January, Lymington Mariners host top of the League, Portsmouth, kick off 2.00 pm. at Woodside. Spectators will be amazed at the exceptionally high standard of play on display.
Mariners team:
Adam Harris, Tim Hinman, Stuart Harvey, Mike Austin, Matt Toms, Simon Green, Steve Wardropper, Ben Vines, Nick Bubb, Phil Jenner, Mitchell Sullivan, Andrew Pink, Max Williams, Ben Rodway, Mikey Jenner, Freddie Lawder, Danny Hodnett, Matthew Truell, Tom Crissel