The last four matches between Alton and Overton have resulted in two wins for each side and a points difference of only six in the visitors' favour.

Alton's previous two league matches had been against sides above them in the table and following last week's results, Overton had leapfrogged Alton, so the home team knew that they had a big task on their hands.

Overton started the better side using their solid pack of forwards to knock at Alton's defensive door, although the first scoring opportunity was presented to Alton in the form of a penalty on the 10-metre line. Unfortunately, Joe Gwyther's mammoth effort slipped just outside the left-hand post. Overton increased the pressure and were held up over the Alton goal some six minutes later. The visitors maintained their position in Alton's 22 and eventually converted a penalty for off-side in front of the posts, score 0 - 3. Alton struck back within five minutes when Gwyther slotted over a similar penalty, score 3 - 3. An Overton breakaway try was stopped by a last-ditch tackle.  Overton were then caught off-guard when Alton were awarded a penalty within five metres of their own line, which enabled Alton winger, Tom Burgess, to break free and gallop the whole length of the pitch to put the home side in front. The conversion was missed, score 8 - 3. Alton were then caught offside at a lineout and the resultant penalty took the score to 8 - 8. Late in the first half, Overton increased their lead with a converted try from a rehearsed line-out move; this they followed up with two penalties, both being awarded for not releasing and the score rose to 8 - 21.

In the second half Overton played but through their own mishandling and Alton's stoic defence, they failed to score again despite Alton appearing to be intent on giving them a number of penalty opportunities! However, it was Overton who finally saw the referee's yellow card for repeated offences reducing them to fourteen towards the end. Alton made the best use of the numerical superiority when following a well drilled passing session by both the backs and forwards with full back, Fran Williams, gratefully accepting the responsibility for the resultant try. Unfortunately, the difficult conversion kick just missed preventing the home side from claiming a hoped for losing bonus point. The final score was 13 -21.

With the result of this match Overton rise to first place and are the only side in this league to remain unbeaten having now won five from five, although Alton gave then a close tussle this time.

Referee - Jason Bradley (HRURS)

Alton visit Southsea Nomads for another Hampshire Two league match next Saturday, 5^th November.  Nomads currently lie fourth in the table while Alton lie just below in fifth place. The game kicks off 2:30 p.m. at the Portsmouth University Ground in Furze Lane, Milton, when a close encounter is anticipated.

Alton is a friendly and welcoming club, now regularly fielding two senior sides plus a Vets squad. Senior training takes place every Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. If you fancy playing just turn up and join in!