Tottonians’ brief time at the top of London 2 South-West came to an end when they were beaten by an in-form Old Alleynians.

Totts held the lead at the start of first half but were pegged back to 13-13 by the break.

The visitors got back in front not long into the second period but back came Alleynians to record their fourth victory on the trot with a 35-27 success.

Centre Mike Searle scored Tottonians’ first half try and Scott Rogers kicked a couple of penalties and a conversion. Oli Northover struck with a try after the break and Searle got his second in injury time – both converted by Rogers.

London Cornish’s task of taking over the leadership was almost a formality – they travelled to basement side Farnham and won 41-3.

And Winchester moved into the top three as they recorded their fourth win on the bounce.

Winch certainly had good reason to be wary of their London opponents – ‘The Mighty Warl’ as their supporters call them, are the only side to have got the better of Cornish so far this season.

Johnny Morris got Winchester off to a good start after a quarter-of-an-hour with a penalty but Warlingham levelled with one of their own.

Winchester were reduced to 14 just before half-time as Jack Tomlinson was yellow carded and the hosts crashed over and converted from the resulting kick to touch.

But Winchester’s weakened side went straight on the attack and captain Jake Hiscock crossed the line to get back to within two points at half time.

Second row Jerry Alfandari – who had to leave the pitch for a time in the opening minutes of the game with a head injury – picked up from a ruck and forced his way over and Morris converted.

Alfandari then left the scene once again with blood pouring from his nose – this time staying on the sidelines.

Warlingham upped the intensity as they battled to get back into the game but a stubborn defence held tight and Winch even denied the home side a losing bonus point when Morris slotted home another penalty for an 18-10 win.

Portsmouth slipped back into the bottom three after losing out 41-19 at home to Weybridge Vandals.