New Kiwi scores on losing debut

Tottonians 18, Guernsey 17

A PENALTY two minutes from time sunk Guernsey in the wet at Tottonians on Saturday having led for virtually the entire London Three South West game. After a bright opening with the wind at their backs, Andy Bailey's side led 17-10 at the break, but failed to score in the second period.

Nevertheless, they were 17-15 in front until the decisive late score which lifts Tottonians level with the greens on 19 points, five behind the joint leaders Cobham and Purley John Fisher.

Guernsey stay third on points difference.

Cameron Patten scored two tries for the visitors and new New Zealand centre Blair Campbell also got one, but on a stodgy pitch Tottonians' big-kicking fullback made all the difference in heavy conditions unsuited to Guernsey's game.

'He was probably the diffefrence between the sides,' said a disappointed Guernsey captain.

But the performance of debutant centre Campbell was a bright spot amid the gloom of a fourth defeat in 14 league games.

'He looks a very talented guy and had a very good game,' said Bailey.

Guernsey aim to get back to winning ways at fortress Foote's Lane on Saturday when fifth-placed London Cornish are the visitors. Bailey remains positive.

'We've got to win the rest of our game and see where it puts us at the end of the season.'

Leaders Cobham did not play, which gave Purley John Fisher the opportunity to draw level with the season-long leaders with 19-5 win over Old Wimbledonians.