The HSB Gales Hampshire Plate semi-final will see Sandown & Shanklin travel away to Southampton RFC, with both teams vying for a spot in the final, to played on Saturday 21st April.

The Hurricanes have not been present in Hampshire competitions for the past four years. The last time Sandown & Shanklin played in a Hampshire competition was in 2014, when the side reached this same stage but in the Hampshire Bowl. That day they went down to event winners Eastleigh, who won 12-0. Since then it has been a turbulent time for the Hurricanes, however, with bright new horizons approaching and a much different side since, Sandown & Shanklin are beginning to re-awaken.

The fact that both teams are different league, will be something disregard early on. Southampton RFC currently play their league games in a strong Hampshire 2 league, and are sitting in 3rd place in the leading pack. They will no doubt present a tough task and be a tough nut to crack, despite their recent result going against them, to league leaders Farnborough RFC.

Sandown & Shanklin on the over hand, also sit in a good place at the moment. Currently 4th in Hampshire 1, chasing down the leaders of the league and on a very good winning streak, form may well be with the visitors. Yet, as with any old adage and cliche, you never know what will happen in the cup, let alone rugby!
With regards to team news ahead of the fixture, the Hurricanes are missing a few of their 1st XV players, with Sam Rees , Jack Wedderkop, Harrison Booth, David Graham and Dan Robinson all missing. Nevertheless, this will provide an opportunity for a young Hurricane to make a mark and take ahead of the run in of games, as we now look toward the climax of the season.

We look forward to seeing you all on Saturday, and with those that are coming along on the coach to support the Hurricanes!