Starting out in driving rain this was something of a game of two halves, Farnham turned around with a 12-5 advantage after playing with the conditions. Alton responded with a 29-0 shut out in the second half during which the rain finally eased.

Both sides played with great ambition in testing and energy sapping underfoot conditions. It was played in great spirit though tackles on both sides could have been lower throughout, referee Steve Tomlinson from Farnham did an excellent job with the whistle.

The match was a big return for ex-Farnham player Adam Stoller who ended with a try under his belt and bragging rights in the Stoller household.

Special mention to Dan Mortara for an exceptional display on debut at second row. Otherwise all 25 of the Alton squad who played put in a great shift and contributed to the final result. As always Alton were supported by a bunch of dedicated parents who passed around the sunblock and kept the barstaff busy after the whistle.

Onwards and upwards, let's hope for a similarly close-fought contest in a return match at Anstey after Christmas. Our thanks to all at Farnham for arranging the fixture at short notice.

Alton points:-
Tries - Ed Simmons (2), Adam Stoller, Kieran Beardsall, Josh Smith, Charlie Hibbert
Conversions - Ed Simmons (2)