The 2nd XV faced a demanding test against a big and physical Fawley 1st XV, eventually going down 29 - 5, but the young Salisbury side gained valuable experience from a tough final pre-season outing.

Fawley’s large runners made inroads at times, but Salisbury showed considerable resilience, with some excellent scramble defence keeping the home side under pressure. The visitors’ set-piece also functioned well against a strong Fawley pack.

Fawley took their opportunities well, with a quick back three particularly effective in finishing their chances. Salisbury’s reward came through an excellent piece of team play which resulted in Jake Turner crossing for the visitors’ only try.

The 3rd XV produced an encouraging performance against Fawley’s 2nd XV, recovering from a slow start to secure a 12 - 12 draw.

Salisbury initially conceded two tries, but gradually adapted to the challenge and began to dominate in the forwards. Charlie Paden provided the first breakthrough, showing good awareness and quick thinking to get Salisbury back into the contest.

There was further drama when Gareth Blackborow appeared to have crossed the line to level the scores, only for the decision to subsequently be reversed. Blackborow was not to be denied, however, and crossed the whitewash again following excellent link play with the Salisbury forwards to bring the scores level.

The two matches brought to a close a productive period of preparation for Salisbury’s senior squads, providing valuable game time and an opportunity to develop combinations ahead of the competitive season.

An especially encouraging feature has been the re-emergence of a 3rd XV towards the end of last season. Its continuation into the new campaign is an important indication of the strength and depth developing within Salisbury RFC’s senior playing ranks.

The importance of the 3rd XV, however, goes beyond the playing strength it provides. For a community rugby club, having another senior side creates opportunities for players of different ages, experience and ability to remain involved in the game. It also provides another important social focus within the club, strengthening the connections between players, families, supporters and the wider Salisbury community.

The Fawley performance demonstrated that the 3rd XV is not simply providing additional numbers. After falling two tries behind, the side showed the character and adaptability to recover and earn a deserved draw. Alongside the developing 2nd XV, it provides further evidence of a healthy playing base at Salisbury RFC.

With three senior men’s teams and senior women’s XV now operating, the club enters the 2026–27 season with encouraging strength and depth both on and off the field. For a community club, that represents an important measure of its health and provides a strong foundation for the season ahead. The 1st XV league campaign will commence at home to North Dorset on Saturday 26 September.