BASINGSTOKE RFC could not stop Hampshire rivals Eastleigh climbing to the top of London Three South West as they surrendered their five game unbeaten streak.

Stoke made the short trip to their county rivals and took the lead in the contest before going down 31-3.

The visitors made a bright start and thanks to the boot of James Ephraim they took the lead after three minutes.

The home side hit back and thanks to a driving maul scored their first try of the afternoon which was converted.

Stoke defended well, but an Eastleigh penalty extended the lead to 10-3.

Eastleigh was then reduced to 14 men after a stamp on hooker Jamie Folan which saw him need treatment for his injury.

As the half came to a close, the home side, continued to have the better of the game, but was unable to add to their tally.

After the interval, Stoke had an attack which saw Dave Lambert break free down field, but Eastleigh soon replied, as they ran into the corner for their second try of the game which was converted.

The home side added score number three under the posts and the conversion extended their lead to 24-3.

In the final five minutes of the game Eastleigh added the bonus point try to complete the Hampshire derby win.

Despite the loss Stoke remain fourth in the London Three South West table.

They now have a week off to regroup, before they face US Portsmouth at home on Saturday December 10.