FARNHAM 16, TEDDINGTON 15 (London 3 SW)

MIKE Salmon’s long-range penalty clinched a thrilling victory for Farnham by the narrowest possible margin.

With Teddington leading 15-13 going into the last few moments, skipper Salmon took responsibility and thumped the ball between the posts from 45 metres, much to the delight of the many spectators at Wilkinson Way.

Teddington, serious promotion contenders, had their sights set on victory, having won the earlier encounter 30-23, but Farnham began strongly and two solid scrums put them in the ascendancy.

They surged forward through Jemi Akin Olugbade and Toby Salmon and the pressured visitors yielded a penalty – an easy kick for Michael Salmon.

The Antlers responded through their backs and slick handling freed up the three-quarters who had pace to burn. With Toby Comley penalised, Teddington went for the corner.

Farnham’s defence was superb and repeated drives for the line were thwarted. But the pressure was unrelenting, gaps appeared and Jon Harte scored wide out.

A fierce battle for territory ensued and the breakdown became an issue. Tempers began to fray and Andrew Bond, on for Comley, lasted all of three minutes before being yellow-carded for a politically incorrect sobriquet in response to a mild head-butt.

Teddington seized the initiative with a catch-and-drive from a lineout 15 metres and were unstoppable. Dom Stone claimed the touch-down and Bob Beevers’ conversion stretched the lead to 12-3.

Farnham, after repulsing further attacks, replied with a beefy drive of their own and great work by Dan Williams and Will Markham released Jonny Davidson, the ball then passing to Olugbade and Toby Salmon who went over for an excellent try. Michael Salmon converted and Farnham trailed by just 10-12 at half-time.

It was turning into another tight encounter, with the outcome impossible to predict.

A turnover resulted in a penalty – slotted over by Beevers – and a five-point cushion for Teddington.

Back came the host side, with the back row of Bond, Fran Meagher and Markham beginning to gain the upper hand and Dan Williams and ‘podium winner’ Jordan Frost now making inroads.

Another penalty brought Farnham within two points going into the last quarter.

Teddington, scenting victory, strove to put the game to bed, only to be forced back by more valiant defence.

The finish was truly dramatic. Farnham were penalised at a lineout, but Teddington’s tactics backfired when the ball was turned over. Bond and Ed Weeks got the ball to Comley who was held, but Teddington had strayed offside.

Mike Salmon stepped up and his kick, sweet and straight, bisected the uprights.

Credit to both teams for putting on such a fine advertisement for their division.

Farnham’s next league match is on?March 19 when they visit Eastleigh side Trojans.