The Army Masters began their 2023-24 Season campaign with a hard-fought 25-7 win against Pacific Islanders at Haslemere RFC last weekend.
Red Shirts skipper WO2 Vasa Bai chose to play up the hill on a sodden pitch, and it was the Islanders who started strongly, pinning their opponents in their own 22 in the early stages.
However, some superb defence came to the fore and eventually Maj Robert Mitchell (RLC) was able to clear the Army lines.
Both sides cancelled each other out until the 29th minute, at which point it looked like scrum half WO2 Chris Harris (R Welsh) had put the Masters in front with a drop goal.
However, it was deemed the referee had already blown up for a penalty – Mitchell making no mistake with the three points.
He doubled the tally with another penalty shortly afterwards, and then added the extras after replacement WO2 Tuvita Tamatawale (RLC) crossed the whitewash for a 13-0 interval lead.
The Pacific Islanders again came out of the blocks fast in the second half, this time taking their opportunity by scoring a converted try following some poor tackling in midfield.
However, the Masters’ scrum – a big weapon throughout the contest – continued to remain on top and the Red Shirts regained control with a sumptuous try, a cheeky through-the-legs pass freeing Sgt Muskwe (RAPTC) to touch down on the left wing.
Mitchell converted for 20-7, and a further gloss was put on the scoreline late on as LCpl Brown hoovered up a 30-metre Harris grubber kick to cross on the right.
The reigning Inter-Services champions Army Masters are next in action against HM Prison Service at Glamorgan Wanderers RFC on Wednesday, December 6 with kick off scheduled for 1400hrs but may be subject to change.
Words © Richard Ashton
Header and featured images – Alligin Photography © Cat Goryn
