They could not have wished for a more encouraging start to their season, but that is what Southampton received as they produced a stunning performance to almost shut out neighbours Tottonians.

In their final preparation game ahead of their London Division Four South-West campaign opener, the Saints shocked last season's league champions and the hosts only scored in the dying minutes to save a whitewash.

Southampton were excellent, snuffing out everything that the green, black and whites threw at them, while countering superbly with new signings Denville Elleston and former Winchester centre Ben Sadowski to the fore in the backs - both getting on the score sheet.

"They were not expecting what we gave them," said an elated Saints captain Tony Cador. "The forwards were excellent and we beat Totts all over the park."

Totts coach Bob Millard was not overly concerned at his team's defeat but will be looking for his charges to be "more careful with the ball when the league season starts as we did not look after it enough".

He added: "I would sound like a football manager, but we created all the chances but did not take them."

But Southampton were thrilled and go into the trip to KCS Old Boys on an immense high.

Another side that have shown their early intentions down are Trojans who defeated much-fancied London Four South-West outfit Petersfield 24-18 - stating their wish to return to this level in double-quick time after dropping down.

It was a perfect start for coaches Russell Clarke and Pete Surtees as their charges showed a strong desire for victory against a side that had defeated them heavily twice last season.

"I am really pleased," said Surtees, "and we can improve on this as well."

While Romsey's match with Bournemouth ended in a 41-20 defeat, there were plenty of signs of encouragement for the newly promoted Sports Centre side, including debut tries for two new players.

Both sides used the outing as chance for rolling substitutions and Romsey coach Bryan Musk saw good commitment from his troops and plenty to fill his mind as 23 players pushed for recognition, with newcomers Dave Cox and back row man Don Cocks among the four try scorers.

Three tries from Fawley's outstanding new wing signing Craig Thomas led the Hampshire One side to a boosting 33-13 victory over Tottonians II, but there was considerably more to raise the expectations of the Watersiders in the months ahead.

Nineteen-year-old Phil Martin and ex-Cranleigh winger Mike Brown have answered the call in the back line and director of rugby Andy Headley has a pleasing selection problem. "There is going to be a quality in depth and it could be a wake-up call to first team regulars," he said.

A nightmare reign of withdrawals hampered Millbrook and they paid the price in going down to an 11-try mauling against a strong Havant Dolphins side 65-5, with first-day skipper Dean Weaver grabbing a late consolation.