WOOTTON Bassett battled back from a half-time deficit to clinch victory in their local derby clash with Devizes at the Sports Club ground on Saturday.

The hosts' made a fine start and were three points ahead after just two minutes when Andy Webb converted from 40 metres after Bassett had conceded a penalty from the kick-off.

The visitors then took control of the game with their forwards winning good ball and the Bassett back looked increasingly dangerous with centre Lee Davies in impressive form.

Bassett went ahead when they won a lineout near the Devizes line and from a set play move provided quick ball to scrum half Mike Weeks who fed rampaging prop Dave Mason to crash over the Devizes line to score. The try was converted by player-coach Steve Cunningham.

Bassett continued to press without adding to their score and were punished when Devizes regained the lead following a tap penalty. Skipper Richard Slater slipped between two defenders to cross the line and the try was converted by Webb to give the hosts a three-point advantage.

Devizes went further in front following another Webb penalty just before the break and things got worse for Bassett when influential centre Lee Davies was sin-binned for dissent.

Bassett were reduced to 13 men when Mason joined Davies on the sidelines after incorrect use of his boot in a ruck, but scored their second try of the game when wingers David Parker and Cunningham combined for supporting centre Steve Wiltshire to score.

Cunningham converted from the touchline to give Bassett a one point lead.

Visiting captain Ian Mclellan extended the Bassett advantage when he supported a good move from the backs and took the final pass to score.

Devizes had no option but to take the game to Bassett in the final stages and paid the price when they lost the ball in the Bassett 22. Bassett cleared with a long kick down field and won a penalty, which Cunningham converted.