Alton 84 – Alresford 28 [14th December 2024]
A much-changed Alresford travelled to Alton on a brisk, yet sunny December afternoon, to face the top team in our division.
The home team kicked off, and it became apparent that their position in the table was not a false one as three converted tries in the first 13 minutes, left Alresford 21-0 down right at the start of the match.
However, powered by a ferocious performance from our pack, and a forwards-based game plan that would prove effective throughout the match, Alresford responded soon after with their first try of the afternoon, reducing the deficit to 21-7.
Two further converted tries from the home team increased their lead to 35-7, but Alresford stuck to what was working and scored a second converted try; 35-14.
But an impressive display from Alton’s back line brought two further converted tries, making the half time score; Alton 49 – Alresford 14.
Alresford kicked off the second half with a rash of injuries and a small squad meaning that for the second half, we would be playing with 13 men.
But despite this, and an increasingly rampant Alton attack, we refused to lie down, and despite regular home tries throughout the half, we remained focused on the two tries we needed for a bonus point, and through relentless pressure, and an unwillingness to give up, we managed this before the final whistle, with the final score being;
Alton 84 – Alresford 28
Whilst the scoreline may show the perception of a heavy defeat, the fact that a makeshift side, playing with 13 men for 40 minutes, managed a four try bonus point against a team that have only lost once all season, should be rightfully recognised as a superb team performance. Every man in that Alresford side today put their hand up, gave their all, and should be praised for their endeavours. It was even acknowledged by the home team that our performance was exponentially better than our first meeting in September.
Our thanks to Alton, and we wish them well for the remainder of this season.
Our next fixture on 11th January 2025 when we welcome Winchester 3’s to the Arlebury.