The first team lost 14-23 at home to Southampton in a Counties 2 league match played in wet, blustery conditions.

The team battled travel disruptions and last-minute squad changes before kick-off, with Jack Gilbey stepping in for Rhys Cole, who dislocated his shoulder during Hampshire trials.

Damien Marriott, Ventnor RFC coach, said: "Losing at home is always going to hurt.

"We knew how much this game meant, and we’re disappointed not to have come away with the result.

"The weather conditions were awful and made it difficult for either side to play rugby, but credit to Southampton, they came with a clear game plan, executed it well and fully deserved their win.

"From our point of view, we know we can be better.

"We’ve worked incredibly hard to get ourselves into this league, and we’re learning that at this level you have to adapt to the conditions and find ways to win ugly."

Ventnor started well, with Jack Rushton scoring the opening try after a strong attacking move, converted by Josh Ford.

Southampton responded with a try of their own before Ed Blake crossed the line for Ventnor’s second, giving the hosts a narrow 14-10 lead at half-time.

During the break, Cody Hayman and Jack Gilbey were brought on to reinforce the defence, but worsening weather made conditions increasingly challenging.

Despite their best efforts, Ventnor were unable to hold off Southampton, who scored unanswered points to claim victory.

There was no fixture for Ventnor 2XV, whose scheduled match against Christchurch was postponed due to travel disruption and will be rescheduled later in the season.

Next up, Ventnor 1XV travel to Fareham Heathens on Saturday, October 31, while Ventnor 2XV will host Forest Force at Watcombe Bottom.

Cody Hayman was named A J Wells Man of the Match, while Harvey Wheeler earned the Red Funnel Moment of the Match.

The squad included J. Rushton, J. Gilbey, A. Robinson, J. Coltham, W. Broomfield, P. Banks, L. Morton, H. Wheeler, B. Bridgeman, J. Ford, E. Blake, L. Butler, A. Bulpitt, B. Westbrook, B. Souter, C. Hayman, J. Pemberton, and E. Smallcombe.