London 2 South-West

Eastleigh have hauled themselves off the bottom of London 2 South-West – just reward for their battling performances in recent months.

The Bishopstoke Road side have been anchored to the foot of the table for much of the season, despite putting in performances that make them look comfortable at SW2 level.

They pushed leaders Camberley to within a point at the beginning of the month and secured a bonus point victory at Andover at the weekend – beating them 29-7.

They took advantage of some sloppy defending in the early stages of the game when Aaron Enock raced through under the sticks to put the away side in front. Jon Lynch duly converted.

Eastleigh continued with their fast pick-and-go play to put Andover under pressure and great carries from Terry Papworth and Conor Frain allowed Panos Logothetis to drive over the line.

They moved to 19-0 ahead when strong running from Jack Berry and Tyson Evans took them into the Andover 22 and Will Rigglesford sneaked through the defensive line to touch down, Lynch adding the extras again.

Andover got on the scoreboard at the start of the second half as their Number 8 went over for a converted try.

Eastleigh though were searching for their bonus point try and it came when Martin Kirby and Ricky Gormley pushed the away side closer to the try line and Terry Papworth bulldozed his way over for the score.

Ricky Gormley ran in a fifth try for Eastleigh, who named Panos Logothetis and Will Logothetis as joint man of the match.

Eastleigh’s place at the foot of the table has been taken by fellow Hampshire side Winchester who were beaten 20-17 at London Exiles.