BASINGSTOKE RFC continued their build-up to their forthcoming season in London Two South West with an excellent work-out against new head coach Gareth Hatherley-Hurford's former side Hackney at Down Grange on Saturday.

The two sides played 80 minutes of rugby split between four 20 minutes quarters and used it to mix and match up their line-ups, so they could learn more about their players ahead of the new season.

Basingstoke RFC's chairman of playing Steve Parker said: "It was good work out for everyone and a lot of positives came out it. Moral is good in the camp and it is nice to see everyone enjoying playing their rugby."

Basingstoke complete their pre-season with a visit from Tunbridge Wells on September 12, ahead of their league opener away at Weybridge Vandals a week later.