VENTNOR 25, ALTON 0

ALTON, after a good run of results, had no joy from their longest trip of the season last Saturday – away to Ventnor on the Isle of Wight.

Ventnor, the Hampshire 2 leaders, had players that were bigger, fitter and much more experienced, while Alton included a number of their colts.

But the visitors gave an excellent account of themselves and the opening half-hour was very competitive, with Alex Hayward making a couple of strong runs and Adam Hoxey saving a try with a brave boot-level interception.

Eventually, Alton were penalised for offside, having broken up an attack, and Ventnor took a hard-earned lead.

The islanders then scored two tries, one converted, and had a 15-0 lead to show for the wind advantage at half-time.

The strong breeze turned into a awkward cross-wind in the second half and with heavy hail at times, Alton were in danger of being blown away.

But the awful weather seemed to increase Alton’s tenacity and they restricted Ventnor to a further ten points in the second half.

The highlight of the half for Alton was a dazzling 40-metre run by centre David Shepherd. It deserved a score at the very least.

The win guarantees Ventnor’s promotion to Hampshire 1, while Alton are assured of at least sixth place in the table.

Alton face another testing league game on March 19 when they host Romsey at Anstey Park (ko 3pm). Romsey are unbeaten – 15 games, 15 wins – and should return to the top of the table after playing a re-arranged match against Nomads.