Trojans still have chance of glory (From Daily Echo)

Trojans still have chance of glory

in Rugby

TROJANS’ quest for promotion is still alive after a brilliant success over champions Guernsey in their final league fixture.

The 16-15 London 2 South- West win put Trojans on equal points with the Channel Island leaders, who claimed the title with a stronger points difference.

But second place was enough to earn Barry Bridgman’s side a playoff slot and another chance to step up a tier.

Trojans were 10-3 down at half-time but battled back to become only the second club to win on the Island this season.

Bridgman, pictured below, said: “It was absolutely marvellous and I am over the moon.

The boys just played so well.

“We turned them over on their own turf. They tried everything they could do to make it their day and we spoilt their party.”

Ben Collins put Trojans 3-0 up with a penalty after a 35-minute stalemate but the home side – who had some 500 spectators enjoying special events and barbecues during the day – retaliated with two tries.

Chris Lynch got Trojans back to 10-6 in arrears with a penalty after the interval and Russell Clarke put them in front by a point with a try half-way through the second period.

Back came Guernsey with a try before prop Mark Greenhalgh went over on the wing.

The visitors then hung on for around half-an-hour as time was added for numerous injuries.

Bridgman added: “Who at Christmas would have put money on us being where we are now?

“We have had 12 straight league wins including against all the top clubs and we are well happy and we are not out of it yet.”

Little did Trojans realise at the time that their second place was safe in any case, after Gosport & Fareham defeated third-placed Guildford 18-12.

Sam Foster nailed a drop goal for Gosport and Alex Duncombe followed up with ten points from a penalty, try and conversion.

Wes Dugan also touched down in the second half.

Gos still have plenty to play for this season with a place in the Gales HSB Hampshire Cup final against Basingstoke at the end of the month.