Old Whitgiftian 49 Petersfield 31: PETERSFIELD’S first team travelled to Croydon knowing that only a bonus-point win against Old Whitgiftian would be good enough to give them the faintest hope of holding on to London 3 South West rugby at the end of this season.

Field’s defensive frailties were exposed within five minutes of kick-off as the hosts cut through to score wide out on their left. A fine conversion secured the two extra points. The hosts then scored a second try in similar circumstances just before the end of the first quarter.

Field scored their first try on 25 minutes when Jordan Allan and Nick Blumlein played a one-two down the right wing before Allan crossed in the corner. Toby Sydenham barrelled over from close range five minutes later and Field were back in contention at 14-12.

The hosts scored their third try just a few minutes later, before sealing their four-try bonus point to lead 28-12 at half time.

Old Whitgiftian took their try total to seven in the first 15 minutes of the second half and looked good for more.

Field responded well and the hosts conceded a penalty and received a yellow card for a deliberate knock on.

Field made their numerical advantage count when Blumlein flicked a no-look pass behind his back to the onrushing Matt Momber, who reached across the line for his side’s third try. Blumlein then added the extras.

The visitors secured their four-try bonus point when Carl Sharrock muscled his way over to score, and Eryn Eales scored Field’s final try.