OVERTON RFC started 2017 losing their first match of this season away to Alresford 12-0 in a tense Hampshire Two top of the table clash.

Both sides showed signs of post-Christmas break blues, but clearly Overton had eaten more mince pies.

The visitors could not get into the game in the first half with the first period being played almost entirely in Overton’s half.

Alresford broke the deadlock after 20 minutes and added to this on the stroke of half time when Overton’s wing was left flat footed.

Overton struggled to get their hands on the ball and seemed unable to change a game plan that was not working.

Alresford were competing more at the breakdown, turned over a number of balls and were very good at sealing off the ball in the tackle, as the village side were also struggling to gain lineout possession.

Tom Gough covered a lot of ground at fullback and saving the score being added to on a number of occasions.

Overton started the second half with much more intent with Ryan Cornell putting in a massive tackle straight from the kick-off, this intent followed through the second period with Alresford only managing five minutes in the visitor's half.

The score was not added to despite Cornell crossing the line on three occasions, but each time the referee failed to award the score due to poor positioning on his part.

Whilst playing much better in the second period Overton lacked ambition and were unable to unlock a stubborn Alresford defence.

Overton have to look at the positives from this game and look to play as a team rather than individuals.

It was all starting to come together in the second half but the Laverstoke Park side were unable to find a way through.

The back row was starting to work together as a unit and JJ Inglis was causing the Alresford backs headaches running from centre as was Gough.

Overton remain top by two points from Fawley and Alresford.

Aldershot and Fleet beaten by Fawley last weekend, are the visitors to Laverstoke Park on Saturday (2pm).

Overton's second team travelled to Fareham Heathens and came away with a 32-5 win, this leaves them second in their league. They entertain US Portsmouth on Saturday (2pm).