Millbrook continued their chase for the Snows Group Hampshire 1 promotion pack when they defeated Fordingbridge on their own New Forest turf in another compelling contest between the regular rivals.

The 31-25 victory meant Brook moved ten points clear of their Snows Group Hampshire 1 opponents.

Bridge took the lead with a try from prop James Gwynne but were trailing 24-18 at the interval – their other points coming from a touch down by captain and hooker James Greenwood and eight points, including a drop goal, from Mat Norton’s boot.

Brook’s half-time tally came courtesy an opening try from flanker Gary Silverthorne and two more in quick succession from captain Mike Randell and Ratu Degei. Rich Colmer’s kicking accounted for the remainder.

Possession was the key after the break, with both sides failing to get on the scoreboard until the 76th minute when Leo Brito brought up Brook’s bonus point when he crossed the whitewash.

Bridge also claimed a losing point for their efforts when back row Mark Price went over and Norton converted.

Fordingbridge team manager Ian Brown said: “We had chances and with a little more composure would have taken them.

“However, we take nothing away from Millbrook, who deserved their win. It was good to see the mutual respect between the two sets of players, which has been built up over the close battles of this and the past few seasons.”

Brook skipper Mike Randell said: “We showed a mature, controlled performance today. To beat Fordingbridge at home is always a result to be proud of.”

Leaders US Portsmouth put another five points on their season’s total with a 46-0 win at Alton while battling Romsey picked up a losing bonus point at home to mid-table Fareham Heathens who won 25-20.