In-form Royal Wootton Bassett defeated second-placed Banbury in South West One East, but Chippenham lose to Old Patesians

The Oxfordshire side arrived second in the table and their hefty forward pack started the game on the offensive, gaining momentum to push over for a try in the 10th minute.

But Bassett started to show signs of their own and 10 minutes later home number eight Kyle Lovell drew defenders before popping the ball to second row and skipper Dave Hogg, who pirouetted over for a neat touch down and landed the long-range conversion.

A super break from winger Josh McCafferty was held up by some desperate Banbury defending but influential prop Chris Rowland seized the ball and forced his way over the line for the second Bassett try.

Banbury responded before the interval to reduce their arrears to just two points.

Bassett's forwards began to assert their authority after the break, while neat running lines centre Elye Darragh also drove them forward.

They were rewarded midway through the half as sustained forward pressure saw Rowland score his second of the match following a huge drive.

Bassett continued to push for the crucial fourth try and replacement forward Chris Patterson made the perfect impact when a drive was rewarded with a try under the posts.

Skipper Hogg slotted the conversion, meaning Banbury's late third try and conversion proved merely a consolation.

Bassett team boss George Loughlin, whose side go to Bicester this coming weekend, said: "After a disastrous start to the season losing the first five matches, we have turned things around in emphatic style with some great rugby.

"However, with a small squad we are vulnerable to injury or unavailability of key players.''

Chippenham's five-match winning run in South West One East was brought to a shuddering halt as they were thumped 53-22 at leaders Old Patesians.

The visitors scored tries through Andy Rossiter, Lewis Surry and Brad Doggett, while Dom Riccio added two conversions and a drop goal.