Farnham have a fine chance of securing third place in the league table after beating in-form Purley John Fisher on Saturday.

A win against Tottonians on April 6 should clinch third spot behind Richmond and Barnes, with just the trip to Old Emanuel on April 13 to follow.

Making a welcome return to the main pitch at Wrecclesham, Farnham gave a gutsy performance against a Purley side who were on the back of a five-game winning run.

For perhaps the first time this season, the Farnham pack was outgunned in the set plays.

Farnham's cause was not helped by the loss of hooker Brendan Conlon at half-time with concussion.

The first half was something of a stalemate. Farnham had more possession, but struggled to create any scoring chances.

Simon Lewis kicked a penalty to put Farnham in front, but their performance was not convincing.

On the half-hour, however, after some sustained pressure, Lewis broke Purley's defences and danced over the line, following up with the conversion.

Purley replied with a penalty and Farnham led 10-3 at the interval.

In the second half, Farnham's point of attack moved from the pack to the three-quarters. The second try was the result of simple, effective play, from lineout ball being won, to mauling, through loose play and excellent back row support and then handling skills in the threes to impress even Richmond.

Richard Doran finally had the glory of the score on the right touchline.

Lewis, who had already kicked another penalty, added the conversion and Farnham had a useful 20-3 lead.

From the kick-off, the Purley full-back fumbled the ball and the Farnham back row passed it between themselves for a while before bowing to the extra gas of Neil Jarrett who whizzed in for the touchdown.

Purley scored in the dying minutes to narrow the deficit, but the visitors really got off lightly. Doran had a try disallowed, and only a missed pass prevented a score when Farnham had a four-man overlap on the right.

Farnham: Debenham, Conlon (Christie 40 mins), Mortimore, Wiltshire, Baker, Doran (Holwill 60 mins), Turnbull, Thompson, Walters, Payne, Jarrett, Symons, Tindall,Southwood, Lewis.

Tottonians' visit to Farnham for the third place showdown. coincides nicely with the FRUFC beer festival on April 6 and 7. For more information, call Adam Christie on 01372 865078.