SOME mooted the analogy of 'men against boys', some 'lambs to the slaughter'. But whichever way you look at this latest League embarrassment, Romsey were never even 'at the races'!

The meeting between these two former London South West 4 outfits earlier in the season had been called off at the last moment as Romsey could not field a front row.

As a consequence the Sports Centre side find themselves cemented to the foot of the league table with a minus two points tally and, on this showing, they'll be lucky to end the season with such a lofty total!

The home side were only once given the opportunity to register a score by a hyper-efficient US Portsmouth side. Already two tries to the good, the travellers conceded a penalty within kicking range and just to the left of the posts.

But full-back Nick Creal, who is normally Mr Consistency with the boot, sent his attempt wide - not that it would have made an iota of difference to the result, such was the Servicemen's dominance.

There were some positives that Romsey could take from this game. Scrum-half Graham Lusty produced a Herculean effort, and performed above and beyond the call of duty.

There was a gritty and determined showing by youngster Craig Humber who, playing out of position, showed a confidence and drive lacking in some of his more senior colleagues.

Finally, the match featured a collectively dogged performance of the starting back-row, Dan Simpson, Jamie Glanville and Ben Savage. All three put their bodies on the line in defence but were unable to stem the flood-tide of attacks.

There's a break in league action this weekend. However, Romsey's Vets XV will be in action, ironically against their US Portsmouth counterparts. Kick-off at the Sports Centre on Saturday has been brought forward to 1.30pm to accommodate those wishing to watch the opening Six Nations international on TV in the clubhouse afterwards.

Spectators are welcome for both matches - although the earlier may be the more entertaining!