Semi Final Action.
Last night 18/03/2026, Humberside travelled to Huntingdon RUFC to take on Kent in the semi-final of the PSUK Cup. It was a fiercely physical, end to end contest, with both sides battling hard throughout. In the end, Kent edged ahead in the closing stages to secure their place in the final, with a final score of 41–35.
Despite the result, Humberside continue to build a reputation as tough, physical opponents. The team’s grit and determination were evident from start to finish, and I’m proud of every single person that makes up this team.
Now, focus turns to preparing for the end of season friendly against Yorkshire Ambulance on the 29th April at Hullensians at Anlaby. Sam Farrow
Match report;
The long awaited semi final of the PSUK Cup kicked off at 1900hrs on 18 March at Huntingdon RUFC. With both Humberside and Kent facing long journeys, the neutral venue set the stage for a fierce encounter which certainly delivered.
The intensity was clear from the outset. Kent’s powerful forward pack claimed the opening kick off and immediately applied pressure, driving hard into the Humberside defence. Despite a resilient stand, the sustained barrage eventually led to the opening try for Kent.
The game continued with relentless physicality. Humberside responded well, and within the first quarter Captain Josh Taylor crossed the line for their opening try, levelling the score at 7–7.
However, Kent’s strength in set pieces soon told, and by the 30-minute mark they had added two more converted tries to lead 21–7.
At this stage, Kent looked poised to take control, but Humberside had other ideas. Just before half-time, Jude Spensely showcased his pace and power with a superb run down the wing to score, narrowing the gap to 21–14 at the break.
The second half maintained the same high tempo. Luis Wright produced a sharp break, using his footwork and speed to cross the line and bring the scores level at 21–21.
What followed was a brutal, end-to-end contest, with both sides trading heavy collisions and testing each other’s defensive resolve.
Humberside’s defensive effort forced Kent into taking points from the tee, opting for a penalty kick to edge ahead 24–21.
Kent continued to utilise their structured play effectively, and another well-worked try extended their lead to 31–21.
Yet again, Humberside refused to back down. In a remarkable spell, Captain Josh Taylor operating at fly half scored two tries in quick succession, demonstrating outstanding individual skill to put Humberside ahead for the first time at 35–31 in the 66th minute.
With the game finely balanced, a turning point followed. An unlucky high tackle resulted in a yellow card for Al Young, leaving Humberside down to 14 players.
Kent capitalised on the numerical advantage, mauling over from a line out to regain the lead at 38–35, before adding a late penalty to seal the match at 41–35.
Humberside fought until the final whistle with determination and grit, but it was not to be on this occasion.
Kent proved worthy opponents and pushed all the way in a hard fought contest.
The match was played in excellent spirit, with both teams sharing respect for one another after a fiercely competitive game.
For a side still in its infancy, reaching the semi-final and competing strongly throughout the campaign is a significant achievement for Humberside as we continue to build a reputation as a passionate, physical team and will look ahead with confidence to the next PSUK season.
A special mention goes to Man of the Match Captain Josh Taylor for an outstanding performance, and to Cal Reddin for his 100% kicking record keeping Humberside in the game until the very end.