BASINGSTOKE Griffins kept themselves on course for the Hampshire South West Merit League title, crushing visiting Portsmouth IV 69-3 to extend their winning streak to 10 games.

The home side were out of the blocks quickly as they scored their opening try after 30 seconds from Rob Mooney.

This was followed by a converted try from Dave Wheeler. Mikey Jacobs slotted the conversion.

Portsmouth came back with a drop-goal, but the home side then added two more converted tries from Jacobs and Trevor Swain.

The visitors were reduced to 14 men due to an injury, but in the spirit of the game, ’Stoke gave them a player to carry on.

Portsmouth defended hard, making big tackles, but they were no match for the speed of the ’Stoke backs and by half-time the league leaders had built up a 45-3 advantage.

This was thanks to further tries from Adam Angell, Steve Briggs and Matt Howell, which were converted by Jacobs.

Alex Vine and Kofi Butcher came on in the second half for ’Stoke as they looked to keep the scoreboard ticking over.

The home side were making their set pieces work really well and further scores followed from Howell, Swain and Iain Coles.

With another injury to Portsmouth, they dropped to 13 so ’Stoke again helped them out as Scott Barr joined the Pompey outfit.

The match scoring was completed when Butcher went over for the final try.

l Basingstoke Rugby Club is looking for new players to join them at any level or who just want to start playing again.

Training is on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7.30pm to 9pm. Anyone can come along and talk to coaches Chris Hughes and Steve Parker, or contact the club on 01256 323308.