Tottonians put an uncharacteristic slow start behind them to take another important step towards promotion.

Totts were 10-0 down in as many minutes in their London 2 South-West clash at Tadley – but five tries over the next 20 minutes put them in the driving seat and they never looked back.

With nearest rivals London Cornish failing to pick up an extra bonus point, Totts put a little more daylight between themselves and their chasers.

However they did not have it their own way at Tadley and went behind to a penalty and try.

Hooker Nick Jones then got the visitors on the scoreboard when he went over in the corner after linking up with second row Ali Ramus who scored Totts’ next two tries – one from a catch-and-drive and the other following good work from teammates Harry Dolbear and Richard Buck.

Captain Robbie Searle brought up the fourth try and bonus point and winger Josh Andrews, playing his first senior game of the season, touched down just before half-time for a 32-10 lead.

Tadley did manage to add another 12 points to their total but four more Totts tries – one from lock Sam Cranton a second for Andrews, one for centre Richard Buck and a final score by winger Faisil Mutiti – sewed up a comfortable victory.

Tottonians now have a rest week before entertaining closest rivals Cornish with the comfort of a six-point advantage.

Coach Gavin Williams said: “We just did not concentrate enough in the first few minutes and they took a well-deserved lead but we came good and never looked back.”

He added: “I would be lying if I said we were not pleased that Cornish slipped up a bit.

“It all adds to what could be a mouthwatering game against them in a couple of weeks when we could win it (the title) on that day.”