PROFESSIONAL-minded Dorset and Wilts kept their nerve to seal a slender victory over Essex in the RFU County Shield.

Two late penalties from Dave Hogg proved the difference for the county side in their second successive pool match points’ haul at Trowbridge, as they bagged a 24-20 triumph.

Salisbury RFC’s promotion-winning squad members Tom Scott, Dave Tonge, Rob Larcombe, Luke Esnouf, Tom Ranaboldo and Theo Daniel showcased their talent with consistent performances.

Speaking after the victory, head coach Matt Pallas said: “We went into this game conscious that Essex were a well-drilled and physical team and that was certainly the case. From the off, both sets of forwards battled to set a platform for their backs to attack from. After prolonged pressure, Salisbury RFC’s Tom Scott broke the line with fast feet and awesome pace.

“We managed to keep our nerve through the game and even when Essex went ahead in the final 10 minutes the lads showed real maturity to keep pressing hard in attack and were rewarded with two penalties, which skipper Dave Hogg dispatched with ease.”

Saturday sees Pallas’s side play host to Hampshire at 3pm at Swanage and Wareham’s Bestwall Park in their final pool game.

“We now look forward to hosting Hampshire at Wareham (3pm) this weekend knowing that The job of qualifying is still not complete. So far so good but a massive game awaits us,” added Pallas.

“For this game up to six Salisbury RFC lads are in contention to be selected and we hope to see as many supporters as possible.”