History was made today as Basingstoke and Hungerford went head-to-head in the inaugural Hungerstoke Games Cup challenge match!
With more than just bragging rights at stake, both teams took to the field knowing that the prize was the honour of holding the brand-new Hungerstoke Games Cup until their next meeting.
Both sides looked strong at kick-off, but it was Basingstoke who struck first, and they certainly weren't hanging around! Just three minutes into the game, our captain made a fantastic break through the Hungerford defensive line, handing off two players before eventually being brought down only 5 metres from their try line. Quick to spot an opportunity, Guy produced a superb pick-and-go from the ruck before popping the ball out to Clayton L, who crossed the line for an excellent opening try!
Nine minutes later, Basingstoke were celebrating again. A powerful run from Leo created the opportunity for Harry G to secure our second try, with Clayton L adding the extras to make it 12–0. Despite being 12 points behind, Hungerford refused to roll over and showed exactly why they were worthy opponents, battling their way back into the game to score their first try shortly before the half-time whistle.
Half-time: Basingstoke 12–5 Hungerford
The second half got off to a flying start, with Basingstoke picking up exactly where they left off. Just two minutes after the restart, Luke P powered his way past two Hungerford defenders, creating the perfect opportunity for a quick pass to Harry G, who finished superbly to claim his second try of the afternoon. There was barely time to catch our breath before Harry G was off again! Around five minutes later, he produced a fantastic break from the centre line, leaving defenders chasing shadows as he raced over the try line to complete a brilliant hat-trick. What a performance!
Hungerford then responded with their second try of the game exposing gaps in our blind side but Basingstoke hadn’t finished.
Fifteen minutes into the second half, it was Daniel B's turn to get in on the action. Taking the ball out on the left wing, he ran a superb straight line and powered his way over the try line between the posts. Clayton L made no mistake with the conversion, extending Basingstoke's lead.
Hungerford still weren't giving up without a fight! Their dogged determination and never-say-die attitude saw them secure their next try after Basingstoke lost valuable ground following a penalty. This time, Hungerford successfully converted, keeping the scoreboard ticking over.
Basingstoke had the final say - A quick-thinking line-out on the left-hand side of the field sparked one last attacking move, with the ball making its way across the pitch and eventually finding Harry G once again on the right. He finished in style, adding another try to an already impressive afternoon and putting the result beyond doubt.
Basingstoke take home the inaugural Hungerstoke Games Cup, securing the bragging rights until the two sides meet again in February 2027.
Congratultions also to Guy for being voted as man of the match by Hungerford.
May the odds be ever in our favour!
Full-time: Basingstoke 34–17 Hungerford.
