Southampton’s biggest boys returned and despite the tricky task ahead everyone was in good spirits as 12 made the trip to Bournemouth. A fast start saw Bournemouth up by 2 in the first minute, but the boys rallied and as the cobwebs disappeared, we dominated the first quarter scoring 2 quick goals from Alex and Finn before Sam fired in from almost the halfway to take us into the first break ahead.

Another fast start for Bournemouth saw them retake the lead with goals either side of a first ejection of the year for the club, Finn showing what not to do. He quickly tried to make amends by scoring but by halftime it was Bournemouth with a slim lead.

In the second half the ‘summer bodies’ began to shine through, and Bournemouth outswam us to extend their lead. Qi Zhe on debut decided to take it upon himself to turn the tide and, with a tackle any rugby player would be proud of/Red-carded for, earned himself a first kick out as a member of SUWPC. After 5 unanswered goals the third quarter ended 10-4. The
final quarter became scrappy as the boys tide, and Bournemouth took it upon themselves to ensure the freshers never came back, lucky for us they can hold their own and despite blood dripping into the water, Andrej, Ethan, and Qi Zhe battled on with Qi Zhe scoring alongside Sam in between a few more Bournemouth counteraYacks. The game ended 16-6 to Bournemouth in a game of 2 halves that no doubt convinced the boys to come to Thursday Swimming sessions.

Man of the Match: Big well done to all the Freshers on debut but Man of the Match goes to Ben Lynch for giving 100% in everything.

Dick of the Day: Qi Zhe for forgetting he isn’t on the rugby pitch.