ALTON 25,

FARNBOROUGH 27

ALTON outscored Farnborough by four tries to three at Anstey Park on Saturday, but just failed to beat the league champions who took their final tally to 14 wins in 16 matches.

It’s been a strong finish to the season for Alton who won three of their last four fixtures to secure sixth place in Hampshire 2.

The home side were urged on by a large crowd following the traditional end-of-season ‘Red Bellies’ pre-match lunch.

Farnborough also brought a coach-load of players and supporters. The players served up a fiercely-contested and vocal contest, with an ending that could not have been foreseen.

At first, there was only one team in it as Farnborough cruised ahead with tries from Greg Wood and captain Harry Brewer, both converted.

Alton then pulled themselves together and winger Cameron Hamer forced his way over in the corner, following good pressure play by the forwards; 5-14.

The champions scored again, Alex Gibson finishing with a flamboyant dive after fine work by James Windle and Kyle Wilkinson, the conversion stretching the lead to 21-5.

But this was to be the last try of the match for Farnborough.

Just before half-time, Luke Parratt hooked against the head and the ball moved quickly across the park. Farnborough’s defence initially held firm, but the Alton forwards forced their way towards the goal-line and scrum-half George Pantrey got the touch-down. Cameron Wicks converted and Alton trailed 12-21 at the interval.

On the restart, more good pressure from the home forwards pinned Farnborough in their own 22. The visitors won the resulting lineout, but poor ball presentation allowed Pantrey to steal his second try.

On the hour-mark, Alton scented victory as they drove for the line from another lineout and number 8 Tony Hopkin grounded the ball. Alton in front, 22-21.

But there was high drama in the last five minutes. First, Farnborough won a penalty for not releasing and top points scorer James Windle kicked his side back in front.

With two minutes to go, Alton were themselves awarded a penalty and Joe Gwyther restored the lead, 25-24. The game was into the final 60 seconds, but there was heartbreak for Alton as they were penalised in front of the uprights and a simple kick for Windle snatched victory away from them.

Farnborough themselves admitted on their website: ‘To give Alton credit, it was an honourable draw on the field.’