BASINGSTOKE RFC’S third string made an excellent start to their game against Gosport and Fareham III, but they were unable to prevent their opponents staging a second-half fight back.

Ed Mellish touched down twice and Brent Evans also crossed the line as ’Stoke dominated the first half in all areas to take a commanding lead into the break.

However, Gosport fought back in the second half, attacking a weakened Basingstoke backline to run in four tries and win the game 24-17.

Coach Chris Hughes said: “It was a difficult pill to swallow.

“We were outstanding in the first half, but in the second half we switched off.

“The boys will learn that lesson and come back stronger for it.”

The fourths played a tough local derby against a strong Overton second string but emerged convincing winners.

The game ebbed and flowed, but Sean Pritchard claimed a hat-trick of tries to help ’Stoke to victory.

Joe Newbold, Dave Ashford and Michael Jacob also crossed the line for the Down Grange club.

Coach Steve Parker said: “It was a cracking hard-fought win.

“We played some fantastic rugby out there today.

“Our backline made lots of gains off a solid platform from the forwards.

“Team spirit is high and we are looking forward to each game.”