SOUTHERN COUNTIES NORTH

ALCHESTER held on to defeat morning leaders Bletchley 17-15 at their Fritwell ground.

As a result of their fourth victory in five matches, Alchester overtook Wallingford to go ten points clear of the relegation zone.

Fly half Tom Miles kicked Alchester ahead with a penalty, but Bletchley exploited mistakes by the hosts to score two tries for a 10-3 lead at the break.

Alchester had two tries disallowed when the referee was unsure over the grounding, but openside flanker Matt Flegg forced his way over for Miles to convert.

Hooker James Hay scampered over for Alchester’s second try, Miles converting for 17-10.

Bletchley managed a third try, but Alchester closed out a memorable victory.

Wallingford lost 34-5 at home to Aylesbury, who replaced Bletchley at the top.

Aylesbury outplayed Wallingford to lead 27-0 at half-time, with James Woodfall, Liam Moloney, Chris Lidington and Andy Blacklock scoring tries.

Woodfall kicked seven first-half points and converted Adam Moore’s try after the break.

Wallingford were much improved in the second period, despite having captain Antony Marris sin-binned, and were rewarded with a late try from James Norris via a catch-and-drive move.