South West 1 East

WITNEY let slip a 21-3 lead to lose 23-21 at Salisbury for their first defeat of the season.

It took a late drop goal from Rory Davis to clinch Salisbury’s victory, but Witney had more than enough chances to have won the game before that.

Witney wing Lewis Collins went close early on, but Davis put Salisbury ahead with a penalty on 14 minutes.

The visitors hit back, with No 8 Jez Hicks piling over for a try, converted by full back Henry Lamb from the touchline.

Witney hit a purple patch as prop Matt Calley stole the ball in a maul and fed flanker Tim Muller, who sent Collins motoring in for try No 2.

Calley and Muller were also involved in Witney’s third try, with centre Carl Strutt this time sending Collins over, Henry Lamb converting.

A slick move saw wing Luke Tunabuna bag Salisbury’s first try on 37 minutes.

Witney started the second half strongly, but seemed to tire and supporting prop Luke Esnouf scored the hosts’ second try.

After 62 minutes, Salisbury were right back in it as Davis scored and converted his own try.

Witney squandered an almost certain try due to crossing and Davis punished them fully.