Alton managed to score only one converted try and a penalty in a match dominated by the defences of both sides - but it was enough to take the points in a dogged Hampshire 1 clash.

With the advantage of the wind in the first half, the Pumas dominated territory, spending plenty of time in the Alton 22, but the home team’s defence stood firm.

It was Alton who opened the scoring on 13 minutes when the backs moved the ball quickly right to winger Ryan Bale who then made a powerful twisting run, from some 30 metres out, to score near the posts, allowing George Pantrey a relatively-easy conversion despite kicking into the teeth of the gale.

On the half hour, Pantrey added a penalty when Locks Heath were penalised for holding on.

Alton had the wind and rain behind them in the second half but a massive defensive performance by the Pumas prevented them taking advantage of the conditions.

Right at the end of the half, as the conditions moderated, Pumas got themselves into Alton’s half and just before the final whistle converted a penalty to earn themselves a well-deserved bonus point.

Last Saturday’s game marked the halfway point of the league. At the beginning of the season Alton’s current record would only have been a dream – played 11, won 10, lost 1, and 10 bonus points.

However, Alton lie second to Farnborough.

Although the teams have amassed the same number of league points, Alton’s points difference is 498 for and 140 against, a difference of plus-353, while Farnborough have scored 476 points and conceded 120, a difference of plus 356.

On Saturday, Alton travel across the Solent to take on the Isle of Wight for the last league game of 2018 and will be endeavouring to repeat their win back in September.

Alton’s first home game after Christmas is on Saturday, January 5, when they will welcome Trojans II to Anstey Park (kick-off 2pm).