Portsmouth 34 Andover 32

Andover started with hopes of building on their much improved performance in the league since the Christmas break.

But a 20-minute period when they pressed the self-destruct button saw victory snatched from their grasp in the last minute of the game.

The HSA-sponsored side had started strongly. The forwards had a good control of the lineout, which eventually lead to a well-worked catch and drive that led to the ball being touched down by Chris "Mastermind" Collins.

Then after a continued period of pressure Andover set up a maul 30 metres from the Portsmouth line. Collins made a break for the line but was brought down by a strong tackle, but Keith Mitchell was in support for the off-load and scored the try, which he then converted. Minutes later Mitchell scored again with a penalty.

After this good start, Andover lost their way, which resulted in Portsmouth scoring a series of tries that brought them into a 24-15 half-time lead.

From the kick-off the visitors made a swift attack on the Andover line and from a lapse in concentration the home side made a clean break with a kick and chase to score close to the posts.

Andover increased their effort, and produced some spectacular rugby. The much-improved Andover scrum with its youthful front row of Cameron, Gardener and Nolan, pushed for the line from five metres, and were awarded a penalty try for Portsmouth coming in from the side.

This lifted the team's spirits and the visiting team continued to press Portsmouth deep in their territory, winning a penalty that was converted by Mitchell. After a series of scrums the ball was left open by the home side, and Alex "The Bear" McNair scored under the posts. With the successful conversion the score sat at 32 -31 to Andover.

There was one minute left to play and all Andover had to do was secure the ball from the restart, but the opposition kicked to the wing and a penalty was awarded to Portsmouth. This they converted, leaving Andover reflecting on what could have been.

Andover's captain, Ewen Cameron, said: "The team's performance was outstanding for an hour, but to beat the top sides it must be maintained for the full period."