A BRIGHT spring afternoon set the perfect stage as a youthful and ambitious Jersey side kicked off against a strong Worthing outfit — potential opponents again in next month’s cup final.
Worthing 38 – 19 JRFC Colts
Tries: Braunspahn, Roberts, White
Conversions: Pallant x2
Jersey knew they faced a stern test, and early on it showed. Worthing came out of the blocks quickly, punishing a couple of errors to open up a 19–0 lead by the break.
Despite the scoreline, Jersey’s defensive effort in the first half was full of commitment, with the home side showing real resolve under pressure. Limited possession made attacking opportunities scarce, but their organisation ensured the deficit remained one that could still be challenged.
The response after half-time was emphatic.
Jersey returned to the field with renewed energy and intent, matching Worthing score for score in an entertaining second half that finished 19–19. Tries from Seb Braunspahn, George Roberts and Jamie White highlighted a far sharper attacking edge, while Louis Pallant added two well-taken conversions.
With greater possession and confidence, Jersey began to stretch the Worthing defence and play with a fluency that underlined the side’s growing potential.
Although the final score read 38–19 in Worthing’s favour, the second-half performance told a very different story. Jersey’s ability to respond, regroup and compete evenly against a physically strong side will give coaches plenty of encouragement.
There were impressive individual displays, with Ollie Houghton, Alex Edwards and George Roberts all catching the eye, while several U17 players stepped up confidently to show they are more than capable at this level.
With the cup final, the Siam Cup and next season fast approaching, Jersey can take significant positives from this outing — not least a second-half showing that suggests this young squad is firmly moving in the right direction.
JRFC Saltgate Colts would like to thank Saltgate for their continued support.
JRFC Saltgate Colts squad: Alex Edwards, Arthur Mangematin, Ashton Planner, Austin Clarke, Cole Gueno, Ethan Le Maistre, George Roberts, Jamie White, Jenson Russell, Louis Pallant, Luke Cadoret, Lyle Pritchard, Oliver Houghton, Oliver Macready, Oliver Treco, Oscar England, Ramon Francis, Sebastian Braunspahn Alcala, Thomas Edey
Coaches & Management: Ben Harvey, Don Gardener and Nigel Higginson
