SALISBURY were defeated 27-10 by old rivals Wimborne in the Dorset & Wilts Senior Cup final.

Salisbury were quickest out of the blocks and early pressure resulted in an early penalty for Sam Waters.

Both sides were battling for physical supremacy up front and using speed and flair in the back line, but the first half moved relentlessly in Wimborne’s favour with three tries for a half-time lead of 17-3 to the Minstermen.

Wimborne further increased their lead after the break, but Salisbury powered their way over the line for a morale-boosting score from try machine Gareth Blackborow, duly converted by Waters.

The Salisbury set-piece continued to work well, the dominant scrum resulting in three opportunities to score but on each occasion were deemed held up over the line.

Good work from the backs stretched the Dorset side’s defence but never quite breached the defensive line. Wimborne continued to utilise their big ball carrying forwards and sealed victory with a final score to complete a 27-10 win.

Salisbury have had a strong campaign and will look to build further over the close season with senior men’s pre-season training due to commence in July.

New players will be welcome at the Castle Road training ground.

Meanwhile, Salisbury hosted a 10-team walking rugby tournament with visiting sides coming from all over the South.

Under clear blue skies each side completed six matches before joining the barbecue and enjoying a spot of refreshment before the journey home.

Gosport and Fareham’s Gold side won the tournament and Broad Plain Pioneers from Bristol won the Fair Play League.

Salisbury entered two sides who both put up commendable showings on the day.