Match Preview

The penultimate Isle of Wight derby of the season takes place this forthcoming weekend, as Sandown & Shanklin host the visiting Isle of Wight RFC. With virtually two thirds of the season passed, both teams now have their eyes set on the final sprint towards the climax of the season in late April, with both having eyes on silverware in the Hampshire Plate and climbing the league table ahead of next season.

Last time out between the two clubs, the Hurricanes tasted victory with 17-23 over the Wootton based team, in a tight and tasty affair. Despite the hosts on the day taking an early 8-0 lead, the Hurricanes thought back to defeat their local rivals, with thanks to three tries from Harrison Booth, Jacob Jordan and Zak Chiverton, and 8 points from the boot of Tom Borrer.

Now a look ahead to this Saturday, Sandown & Shanklin look to complete a whitewash of victories over their local rivals for this season. With the home side currently sat in 5th position in the league, they are aiming to gun down the sides above them, and this was aided with a brilliant 18-17 victory over 2nd placed Bognor at the start of the year.
The visitors on the other hand, will be looking to get an edge and points to pull them away from the relegation battle developing in Hampshire 1. This fixture could also result in being a prelude to a hotly anticipated (and if both teams win their corresponding Semi-finals) all Island Hampshire Plate final in the end of April.

The Hurricanes are missing two key pieces to their back line this week, with Full back Sam Tyson and back Michael Barrett away. Yet this will open up the opportunity for someone to put their hand up for selection, whilst the pair are away.

Supporters, guests and fans are welcome to the Clubhouse from midday, with kick-off at 1400. Despite the weather coming at the moment, unless there is a very hard frost, this game will go ahead on Saturday.