FOR the third time this season, Ellingham & Ringwood bowed out of the Powergen Junior Vase but not without a terrific battle with Sussex Two East outfit Newick, going down by just 8-6.

Ellingham & Ringwood have only reached this stage after twice being reinstated following Vase defeats when it was discovered their opponents had fielded ineligible players.

On Saturday, all the points were scored at the one end of the pitch as the game was dominated by the strong wind cutting through the New Forest wilds.

Despite defending superbly against some sustained periods of pressure, E&R turned around eight points behind having leaked a try and, what proved, the match-deciding penalty from Newick skipper Liam Craig-Davis.

Two penalties from captain Martin Chaldecott cut the deficit, but they couldn't break through the visitors; Newick holding on to book their last 16 place.

Chaldecott was understandably disappointed, but has enjoyed the roller-coaster ride

"It's been a rare chance to play against higher level teams," he said. "We've shown we can compete and must now concentrate our efforts towards the league."

That is, of course, unless another surprise letter lands on secretary Steve Benson's doormat next weekend!