PETERSFIELD RFC’s senior teams combined to take on the might of the Royal Navy in the third floodlit charity match between the sides.

All three teams, plus the veterans, were represented, and with important league matches scheduled at the coming weekend, this match was never going to be easy for ’Field. So it proved as they were soundly beaten 51-12 by a Navy development squad.

The meaty matelots were imperious in the first half, running in a half-dozen tries courtesy of their powerful and pacey back line. They didn’t have it all their own way and ’Field 3rd XV player Lee Jones, always a pleasure to watch in action, crossed for an unconverted try.

The second half was a much more even affair. Petersfield tightened up their play and enjoyed several lengthy spells of pressure.

The Reds finally converted one sortie into a try, taking the small comfort of ensuring that they were not completely shut out in either half. Ryan Morse essayed a trademark bullocking drive and Josh Haslett added a terrific conversion from wide on the left.

While the score was racking up on the pitch, the money was piling up at the clubhouse, thanks to a handsome turn-out of spectators, some of whom had attended the pre-match charity supper.

They were as generous in their donations as were the players for putting on an entertaining display. The event raised some £2,400 which was split evenly between the Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity and the Rosemary Foundation.

Petersfield RFC also presented a cheque to the Rosemary Foundation for the £4,000 raised in May’s 1664 Yomp – a test of leg and will power that took participants on a 166.4-kilometre hike in just 30 hours. The challenge was completed by just six people this year, including two from Petersfield RFC – Rachel Lewis and Allan McManus.