First Win for Hove Walking Rugby!

Sunday 19 October – Barns Green Walking Rugby Festival

Wednesday 15 October – League Fixture vs Barns Green

Hove Walking Rugby made history this week, securing their first-ever victory at the Barns Green Festival on Sunday 19 October!

Despite being slightly short on players and with no substitutes, the team showed incredible determination, playing five back-to-back matches against strong sides from Worthing, Burgess Hill, Crowborough, Seaford, and hosts Barns Green.

After a series of closely contested games and near misses, Hove claimed a 3–1 victory over Seaford, with standout tries from Jason Bromfield, Phil Beecham and a borrowed player who slotted in seamlessly. Even in heavy rain and treacherous conditions, the squad showed some fantastic ball handling and flowing passages of play despite Phil B damaging one of his own players!! It was a performance full of heart and teamwork and one that earned Hove its long awaited maiden win.

Post-match hospitality was top-tier, with Barnes Green laying on a much-appreciated curry and cake feast.

Earlier in the week, on Wednesday 15 October, Hove travelled to Barnes Green for a league fixture. It was a hard-fought and good-natured evening of rugby, despite the lack of a referee and a full squad. The three-game series saw Hove tire towards the end, with results as follows:

•⁠ ⁠Game 1: 1–1 draw

•⁠ ⁠Game 2: 2–2 draw

•⁠ ⁠Game 3: 1–4 loss

Congratulations to Tony Gove, who celebrated his first ever walking rugby try a milestone moment for him and the team. While a few decisions didn’t go Hove’s way, the team took it in stride and showed great spirit throughout. The night ended on a high with beer and pizza generously provided by Barnes Green.

A week of progress, camaraderie, and celebration onwards and upwards for Hove Walking Rugby!