FAWLEY 29, ALTON 10

THIS was a very similar game to the same fixture last year, but failed to show the quality expected of a top-of-the-table clash between two unbeaten sides lying first and second in Hampshire 2.

Fawley, a more experienced and streetwise side, dominated the first quarter, while Alton appeared to be still stuck in the traffic queues caused by an accident on the M27.

The visitors did not shape up too well against thrusting attacks from the Southampton side who scored three tries in the first 20 minutes, two of which were converted, to lead 17-0.

On 23 minutes, Alton were awarded a penalty, which Joe Gwyther slotted neatly over. Realising they could be competitive, Alton contested the game more aggressively, at times forcing the hosts back on desperate defence.

However, right on half-time, Fawley broke free and scored a converted try to effectively settle the match at 24-3.

Honours were shared in the second half, with both sides scoring tries. For Alton, Tom Smethurst finished off a forward drive from a penalty, giving Gwyther a fairly simple conversion. Fawley added an unconverted try and closed out the game to remain undefeated, earning their fourth successive bonus-point victory.

Alton, now fourth in the table, entertain old friends Overton at Anstey Park this Saturday. Overton thrashed lowly Southampton 104-0 last weekend and, like Fawley, have reeled off four straight wins. On a neighbouring pitch, Alton’s ‘Super 2s’ will host Ventnor II in a Solent League 4 fixture. Both matches kick off at 3pm.

Alton will welcome new players for senior training on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7-9pm.