Chichester students back in BUCS action - with mixed results

After an impressive 2011-12 season that saw six promotions and an overall ranking of 55th out of 155 in the British University College Sport standings, hopes are high for a successful 2012 season.

Five of the highest Chichester teams were in early action.

Off campus the women’s football first team, after an extensive pre-season, can count themselves unlucky to have taken just a point at Bath University.

Sarah Kempson’s impressive two long-range strikes looked to have secured the win but they were denied by a controversial late penalty.

Chichester also had two goals disallowed in the 3-3 draw.

Both men’s rugby teams travelled to Brighton and they experienced contrasting fortunes and results.

The second team showed huge character and resolve in turning a second-half deficit around with a last-minute match-winning try to secure a 36-33 win. The first team endured a frustrating afternoon losing 29-21.

On the Bishop Otter Campus the women’s rugby team put in an impressive performance defeating newly-promoted UCL 28-10, securing an additional bonus point for four tries.

Before the match a minute’s silence was held for former Sussex rugby referee appointments secretary David Maconachie, who passed away recently. He was a huge supporter of University and Women’s Rugby.

A youthful netball first team featuring a number of freshers comprehensively defeated Hertfordshire University 36-22.

See www.bucs.org.uk for results and tables.