Warlingham claimed two losing bonus points from their long journey to the south coast but couldn’t end the season on a high in changeable weather conditions.

The Hamsey Green side had to cope with nine changes from the side that defeated league champions Cobham last week. Looking to build on the momentum gained, Warlingham took time to settle and find the continuity so evident last week.

Portsmouth survived relegation on the last day of last season but are much improved this term. A narrow victory by Warlingham earlier in the season looked to be being avenged conclusively as the hosts raced out of the traps with two early penalties and a converted try answered by a sole Warlingham penalty goal from captain Bradley Saffrey The hosts camped in Warlingham’s territory, playing it tight and using the forwards to batter the resolute defence into submission. Strong tackling stopped further scores and the visitors began securing more possession and building phases that started to expose Portsmouth’s defence to suggest all was not lost. However, a third Portsmouth try just before half time sent the home side in 20 -3 up at half time

After the break Warlingham, and the back row combination of Dave Thornton, Tom Street and Freddie Hick, started to show Portsmouth they were not going to have it all their own way. New centre combination of Rory Campbell and Brad Kearney started to make forays into the oppositions half with Saffrey pulling the strings at 10..

Whether it was the stirring half time talk or knowing the next 40 minutes were the last of the season, Warlingham started to pin Portsmouth back in there own 22 with Tom Street and captain Brad Saffrey to the fore. It was Saffrey’s clever kicking game that got Warlingham on the front foot and led to two quick tries from Rory Campbell. This was followed up by a flowing move of over ten phases that culminated in Saffrey crossing the line, leveling the scores at 20-20 on the hour mark. Prop Simon Townsend battled his way forward nearly getting on the score sheet but was tackled just a few metres out.

Then Portsmouth fought back, first with another penalty and then with an unconverted try. It would have been cruel for Warlingham to go home empty handed after a stirring second half display and playing from their own 22 they worked up the pitch combining forwards and backs well. Again Simon Townsend broke down the left and after quick recycled ball Number 8 Dave Thornton crashed over in the last minute. The try gave the blue and whites a bonus point for four tries scored and one for losing by less than seven points on the final whistle.

Warlingham showed massive heart and determination to pick themselves up and fight until the end. This spirit and reaction to adversity, despite the defeat, left players, coaches and supporters happy and looking forward to next season. Head Coach Paddy Dennien said, “London Two is a difficult league in which to survive. The next step takes you into the semi professional arena which is a whole different ball game. We’re very proud to be the highest club in the area and we’ll be back next season to aim high.”

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