Heathens Academy 25 - 3 Jersey

Jersey took the long and unenviable journey to Cams Alders for the Academy's first ever match in Hampshire Division One. A warm welcome was offered, with a hearty breakfast waiting for them. There was a scary moment when it appeared Heathens' tight five had devoured their weight in sausages but there was still plenty to go round!

The players felt they were finally where they belonged, and were desperate to prove it – no motivating words were needed, they had a job to do and wanted to get on with it. Heathens dominated the early exchanges, totally dominant in the lineout and scrum they amassed an 18-0 half time lead. It wasn't easy, but they had fought hard to get to this position.

A change of tactic by Jersey in the second half caused the home side no end of problems, and what should have been practice in closing out games became a matter of survival. Jersey picked up three early points as Heathens gave away penalties all over the place as a result of the constant pressure. Strong, inspired play kept the visitors out however and as the clock ticked down the pressure transferred as Jersey were forced to be ever more inventive in hope of a breakthrough. It was not to come, and the game came to an end with Heathens consolidating the result with a late score.

All in all, it was perhaps harder than it needed to be but credit to Jersey who never gave in and asked questions right up until the final whistle.

Tries: Snell, Harrod, Hiron, Clark
Cons: Dawes
Pens: Dawes