ELLINGHAM and Ringwood won their second consecutive game in 2016, edging a low-scoring affair with Farnborough 8-3.

The Snows Hampshire One game, which was played in wintry conditions, was hotly contested.

Ellingham took the lead when hooker Adam Payn crashed over after a series of rucks. Farnborough came back strongly and were unlucky not to score a try but, shortly before half time, they kicked a penalty to make it 5-3 at the break.

In the second half both sides had chances, but the defence was solid at both ends. With ten minutes left, Ellingham were awarded a penalty, which wing three quarter Josh Butcher kicked to extend the lead to 8-3.

Coach Alan Steel said: “This was a really good performance. It wasn’t pretty, but our young side stood up to a very physical Farnborough side to earn an important away win."

It was also good news for the women, who remain top of National Challenge South West 1 after seeing off North Petherton 24-5.

After soaking up some early pressure, Ellingham played some of their best rugby early in the first half, resulting in wing three quarter Chloe Barrett (pictured) crossing for two tries, one of which was converted by centre Lucy Juffkins.

In the second half, North Petherton came back strongly and scored a well deserved try, but Ellingham finished the stronger with further tries from Lucy Juffkins and wing three quarter Nina Hoadley, with Juffkins adding a further conversion.