Tottonians slipped to seventh in London 1 South but still finished the season as Hampshire’s highest placed club.

They made such an impact in the early stages of the season that they changed their ambition of ‘establishing themselves’ in the league to a possible fifth or sixth place finish.

That goal slipped through their hands with defeat by second-placed Guildford – and Maidstone walloping Charlton Park – but it was still a hugely successful season for the Water Lane club.

Totts held the upper hand against Guildford at half time with Harry Dolbear scoring the opening try and captain Robbie Searle converting before nailing three penalties.

However, the visitors showed why they finished as runners-up by hitting back to end the contest 31-19 winners – Totts striking with another penalty after the break.

Chairman Paul Searle said: “Overall, I’m extremely pleased. It’s been a very successful season at a new level so it’s upwards and onwards. There’s a real good feel to the club. We have beaten the best team in the league and only been beaten twice by two teams – Medway and Guildford.”

Totts seconds, who claimed their Merit League, also came close to bringing some endof-season silverware home but lost out 30-26 to Havant in the final of the John Collins Cup.

Gosport & Fareham were well and truly beaten, 81-19, on their home turf by midtable Chobham.

But Gos avoided the drop back into SW2 courtesy of third-placed Medway being relegated for infringing RFU laws over the registration of professional players. The Kent club will be relegated with Charlton Park and Twickenham.

Havant finished their campaign with 43-12 win at Dover.