Alton’s first league outing of the season did not get off to the best of starts but they turned the match around in the second half.

Within four4 minutes of the kick-off Alton were 7 points down; following the Romsey hooker’s quick heel in the scrum their No. 8 charged down the right-hand side of the pitch creating sufficient room for the home full-back, Rob Stent, to touch down below the posts.

Shortly after the conversion Alton closed the gap when Romsey were adjudged off side, full-back Adam Gallagher collecting his first 3 points of the game.

Despite a couple of very effective charges by Alton No. 8, George Damen, the visitors were unable to close the points gap, unsympathetic passing and careless handling letting them down.  Their efforts though were rewarded when a high tackle gifted Gallagher a further 3 points.

The home side returned to their running game and Alton scrumhalf, Mark Crowther, prevented a certain try with a good tackle on his own 22m line.  Romsey did however benefit from some poor defensive tackling five minutes before half-time which allowed centre Jim Stent to score, again under the posts, and convert his own try.

Three minutes before half time Alton’s centre, Stewart Davies, was sin binned for dissent.

The resultant shortage in numbers seemed to concentrate the Alton players’ minds and they began running with more confidence personified by Gallagher’s mazy run from his own 22m line to score and convert his own try.

Alton were now within one point of the home team and turned up the gas.  Romsey then had a forward sin-binned for tripping; Alton took advantage of this and pressurised the Romsey line.  Alton were unfortunate not to be awarded a penalty try when the home forwards collapsed in a try line scrummage, following an excellent drive by the Alton.  The referee saw an Alton hand in the resultant pile-up and awarded a penalty to the defence.

Alton maintained the pressure and a run of penalties resulted, Gallagher slotting home two of the three to give Alton a well-deserved 14 – 19 lead.

Alton now opened up and a fine move by the backs was only stopped by an excellent home tackle, but Romsey continued to offend and Gallagher added to his penalty toll.

Alton finally finished their task with two further tries; No 8 Damen taking all on from within his own half to give Gallagher yet another chance to add to his points tally; Three minutes later from a lineout move winger Adam Gill was set free and despite a despairing tackle he touched down out on the right; Gallagher though could not add to his personal 24 point tally.

Alton’s Man of the match was George Damen who spent the afternoon creating space and opportunities for others.

Referee - Peter Woodward (HRURS).

Next Saturday Alton are at home to renew their longstanding local rivalry with Farnborough kick-off 3 p.m. in Anstey Park