FORDINGBRIDGE's start to 2017 ended in a 32-18 home defeat to promotion rivals Petersfield in Snows Hampshire One.

Within five minutes of the kick-off, Fordingbridge were seven points down after a converted try from Petersfield at the Recreation Ground.

And within another five minutes, the lead was stretched by a further three points after a well-taken penalty.

Two penalties from Mat Norton saw the half finish 10-6 to the visitors.

Three tries from Petersfield in the first 20 minutes, one of which was converted, meant that the score was pushed to 27-6 and the game was running away from Fordingbridge.

However, in the last 20 minutes the New Forest side started to come alive and a well-taken try from Fordingbridge star man, Ross Bealey, spurred his side on. With the conversion secure, the scoreline started to look a little better for the hosts.

But a further try from Petersfield and one from Mike Parry for Fordingbridge saw the game finish at 32-18 to Petersfield who hold onto second place in the league with Fordingbridge still in third with a game in hand.

'Bridge captain Steve Brown said: “It was tough to win a game with so little possession and that we did not seem to have the same level of intensity and desire than that of Petersfield.

"However, the league is still very much up for grabs and we need to get back on track at Farnborough."

In contrast, Fordingbridge seconds pulled off a last minute win over Salisbury fourths 26-24.

Tom Madgewick's conversion won Fordingbridge the game.