The Army Under 23s were edged 16–14 by the Royal Navy in a fiercely contested Inter Service Championship clash at Burnaby Road, Portsmouth, on Wednesday 19th November.
The result means the championship remains finely poised heading into its final round, with the Army set to host the Royal Air Force at Cardiff Arms Park on Friday 5th December.
Tight Opening Forty
A cagey first half produced no tries as both sides battled for territory in blustery conditions. The only points of the opening period came from Navy fly-half George Edson, whose penalty gave the hosts a narrow 3 – 0 advantage at the break.
Momentum Swings in a Dramatic Second Half
The Navy struck first after the interval, tighthead prop Jack Deveraux powering over from close range. Edson added the extras to extend the lead to 10 – 0.
The Army responded superbly, showing the attacking intent that has developed across their challenging preparation period. Tries from Woody Facey and Rowynn Turner, both converted by Mo Waqanidrola, brought the visitors roaring back into the contest and put the Army ahead 14 – 10.
However, the Navy’s discipline and accuracy from the tee ultimately proved decisive. Two further penalties from Edson swung the scoreboard back in the Senior Service’s favour, and despite sustained Army pressure in the closing stages, the hosts held on for a narrow victory.
Army U23s Build Through a Demanding Season
The match capped a demanding series of build-up fixtures for the Army squad, which included:
- QRH – Lost 14 – 35
- RAMs Dev – Lost 21 – 57
- RMAS – Won 48 – 14
- Cambridge 1923s – Lost 21 – 25
- Cardiff Met – Won 28 – 0
These fixtures have helped develop squad depth, combinations, and resilience – qualities that were evident in the spirited comeback at Burnaby Road.
All Eyes on Cardiff
The Inter Service Under-23s Championship concludes on Friday 5th December, when the Army welcome the Royal Air Force to Cardiff Arms Park.
- Kick-off: 1900 hrs
- Entry: Free (capacity limited to 4,500 – early arrival recommended)
The Army will look to finish their campaign on a high in what promises to be an exciting finale.
All images © Army Rugby Union – Alligin Photography – Mark Deller MATCH HIGHLIGHTS
MATCH GALLERY
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