Ventnor Finish Third At Solent 7s Tournament

Ventnor Rugby Club secured a third-place finish at the Solent 7s tournament in Gosport on Saturday after a strong day of competition against experienced opposition.

The Island side progressed through the group stage unbeaten, recording three victories against teams including hosts Gosport and US Buccaneers.

Ventnor's run to the final was halted in the semi-finals by Fordingbridge, before the team bounced back to defeat Gosport in the third-place play-off.

Head coach Damien Marriott praised his players' progress following the tournament.

He said:

"Today was an incredible performance. The growth from where we were at our first tournament to where we are today is a testament to the lads' efforts at training.

"To compete against such strong sides, including teams with proven Counties 1 and Counties 2 experience, should give us huge confidence going into the season.

"We were disappointed not to reach the final, but that disappointment shows how much our expectations have changed.

"Back in May, we were simply excited to enter our first tournament and get the opportunity to play 7s.

"Now we are competing with quality teams and expecting to challenge for trophies."

The tournament forms part of Ventnor's preparations ahead of the new rugby season, with the club hoping to build on the encouraging performances shown throughout the day.