After defeating Dorchester in the semi-final last week Salisbury Colts made the trip to North Dorset on Sunday afternoon to face Wimborne in the U17s Cup Final. The game had the makings of a classic contest with both sides having performed well in their progress to the final and both starting with high expectations. From the kick off both sides showed their intentions, Salisbury pressed Wimborne hard leading to a penalty after five minutes which was kicked wide by Captain Marcus Beer. From the restart Wimborne attacked well and after some hard work by their forwards they released the ball to their backs who used their pace broke through the Salisbury defence for their first try.  The game then settled down into an even contest across the park with both Teams alternatively attacking and defending.  The Salisbury pack worked well in both the scrum and line outs winning their share of both. Where Wimborne had the edge was in the ruck and where they really punished Salisbury on the Wings. Despite their best efforts Salisbury leaked another three unanswered tries and gave away a penalty to go in at half time 25:0 down.

Salisbury started the second half with a strong and furious attack from the kick off that ended with Beer beating four players to score Salisbury’s first try.  Wimborne countered quickly and scored their fourth try a few minutes later. The game came to a halt not long after that due to an injury to Salisbury player Alex McGoldrick who was carried off with an ankle injury that will see him out until the New Year.  That wasn’t the last injury for Salisbury as not long after Will Powell went down in a ruck and play was halted whilst he was treated. The Teams switched pitches to carry on and enable the Air Ambulance to pick up Will and take him to Salisbury Hospital where later the news was good for his injury and we hope to see him back soon.

The game restarted and with Salisbury flanker Jonny Eden Hamilton scoring a good try after hard work by the forwards.  Wimborne from the restart broke through Salisbury’s defence to score and answering try and again shortly after. Salisbury played valiantly fighting right down to the final whistle ending the game 44:10 down. The game was played in a great spirit with Salisbury never giving up despite the pressure and score line. Special mention goes to Ollie Miller, Tom Vaughan Edwards ands Adam Wookey who all played out of position and to Jamie Eden-Hamilton who played up a year. Despite the defeat Salisbury can be proud of their performance and move on the play Swanage and Wareham in the Merit Table next Sunday.