Ventnor's first match of 2025 ended in defeat against a strong Millbrook side at Watcombe Bottom.

VENTNOR II 14, MILLBROOK II 35

Ventnor's skipper, Jack Rushton, assembled a 27-strong squad for the side's first clash of 2025.

Ventnor started the game with vigour, with Joe Coghlan and Jack Gilbey making significant early advances.

They dominated the scrums for much of the first half, with Henrik Brown, Chris Skelley and Charlie Magnusson delivering powerful hits.

Ventnor about to put into the scrum. (Image: Sam Frampton) However, Millbrook managed the first try of the game by working the ball wide.

Despite efforts from Louis Wyatt and Nathan Frampton to stem their advance, Millbrook capitalised on space on the wing to secure a second try, taking a 14-0 lead into half-time.

The second half saw a resurgent Ventnor, with Warren Riches and Jake Babbington making substantial progress, with smart kick-and-chase moves.

Fresh legs in the form of Ed Clarke, George Collett and Iain Reeves were introduced to bolster the drive for points.

Their impact was immediate, with Lewy Morton breaking through the Millbrook defence to score Ventnor's first try of the game, converted by Harry Ottley.

Debutants Sean Frampton, Luke Steele and Jack Gibson all showed determination and grit, laying the foundations for their new team.

With one try under their belt, the team pushed for another, which came in the form of a pick-and-go from Will Broomfield.

Ottley once again converted to bring Ventnor's tally to 14.

Despite Ventnor's spirited fightback, Millbrook managed to break through twice more, sealing the home side's defeat.

The team's efforts were acknowledged by Ventnor's coach, who said: "The lads showed great spirit and determination against a strong side.

"We will take the positives from this game and come back stronger for the next match."

Despite the result, Ventnor's performance against the top-of-the-table side has given them a solid platform to build on, as they continue their 2025 campaign.