MARK Darlington’s last-gasp try saw Chinnor claim a memorable 43-40 victory over local rivals Rams.

In front of a bumper Friday night crowd of 877, the hooker drove over in virtually the last play to mark his 50th cap with a moment to savour.

It was a fabulous advert for National League 1, as the lead changed hands eight times in a 13-try classic.

Sandwiching Robbie Stapley’s score, Chinnor led 12-7 after 17 minutes, thanks to two virtually identical tries through Jason Worrall and Ben Manning after their ball carriers did the damage through the middle.

It was an end-to-end contest and Henry Bird’s 60 metre interception try put Rams two points in front, but the hosts led 19-14 at the break as Willie Ryan crashed over.

There was more drama to come and Bird touched down twice in the first six minutes of the second half to complete his hat-trick.

Those scores sandwiched Josh Hodson’s fantastic individual try for Chinnor as the visitors led 28-26.

Rams then opened up a nine-point advantage when Stevie Bryant stretched over, but Chinnor replied through Fred Tuilagi.

Drew Humberstone finished off another counter as the visitors again opened up a nine-point lead with 14 minutes to go, however there was to be late drama.

Luke Carter’s try moved Chinnor to within two points, before Darlington drove over with only seconds remaining to spark jubilant celebrations.

The Thame-based outfit are seventh ahead of Saturday’s season-ending trip to Sale.

Henley Hawks could not sign off in similar fashion at Dry Leas, losing 34-19 to Barnes.

A crowd of 525 turned out for the National 2 South side’s final home game of the season and the hosts went 12-0 up early on, thanks to tries from Toby Gilbey and Alex Bradley and Cail Cookland’s conversion.

Barnes fought back to lead 17-12 and Sam Lunnon’s converted try was only a blip for the visitors as they ended strongly to take victory.