PETERSFIELD Rugby Club’s first team head coach James Alder admitted that his team had faced a very hard day against Portsmouth at Penns Place, which was compounded by the number of serious injuries Field suffered.

“I give full credit to my players for digging in and keeping Portsmouth honest,” said Alder.

“Even with long spells in defence we continued to play positive rugby and with changes throughout the team everyone showed that they deserved to wear the shirt.”

Alder now has the challenge of preparing his team for the rescheduled away fixture at New Milton and District.

However, the liberal application of ice and physiotherapy should see Alder’s remaining players fit for duty and, given Saturday’s gutsy performance against Portsmouth, whoever is picked for the squad will give their all for the team.