It was on this day that Havant played ROSSLYN PARK at Hooks Lane in the 1^st round proper of the John Player Cup. In those days, Rosslyn Park were one of the top sides in the country and included well known rugby ‘legends’ such as Andy Ripley and Paul Ackford. Havant’s own ‘legend’ (in his own front room), Mick Earley, got a rare selection over his rival Mick Chalk as Hooker for the home team.

Havant’s route to the last 32 was:

Beat Basingstoke 19-10 in the Hampshire Cup

Beat Abbey 9-3

Beat Oxford 7-6

The final score was Havant 0 Rosslyn Park 19

Alister Marshall wrote ‘By goodness Havant you did us proud. The story of the JPC first round match is not in the flattering scoreline, but in the guts, determination and magnificent spirit of the Havant heroes in the rain-lashed quagmire of Hooks Lane on Saturday. Skipper Phil West, who looked as if he had been thrown in at the deep end, then dragged behind a plough (doesn’t he always?), led his valiant team from the field smiling at the end of a cup-tie where the Park’s four tries and one penalty goal victory was more of a tribute to Havant than to the international and county loaded London aces.

April 27 1951   Founding

Sep 29 1951   1st Game

Mar 12 1973   1st Hants Cup Final

Mar 9 1975     1st Hampshire Cup win

Mar 23 1975    New Clubhouse opening

Feb 14 1976    Roundhay

Dec 11 1984    Balcony Collapse   

April 25 1992   Promotion

April 24 1993   Aspatria

Dec 18 1993    London Irish

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