A LATE finish from Pete Fletcher settled Downton’s five-goal thriller with last season’s title challengers Tadley Calleva.

The Robins, who were twice pegged back by the Basingstoke-based visitors, got an all-important winner to shoot into third place in Wessex Division One after a 3-2 victory.

In a game in which many surprises were unravelled, Dan Telfer broke the deadlock on 20 minutes after a quick break from his own half before unleashing a rasping drive into the net.

That was cancelled out ten minutes later by Scott Kinge’s firm header.

Tadley then should have sneaked in front when they were awarded a penalty just before half time.

Keeper Charlie Aldridge guessed the right way and saved the spot kick as well as the follow-up to keep the game all square.

The second half continued to be played at a high tempo but it was Downton who took the lead with Declan McGregor arriving at the far post from a Telfer corner.

But it wasn’t long before Tadley pounced again, Kinge completing his brace with an excellent strike from the edge of the box.

The momentum was with Tadley and Aldridge and assistant player/manager Ben Smith were called upon to foil numerous attacks.

Downton were heading for a draw until Fletcher thumped home Craig Tyson’s set piece in the 82nd minute.

Manager Colin Hopkins said: “I told the lads before kick off nothing less than three points would do and they produced an excellent team performance against a very good side who will be in the top half of the table with us this season.”