Andover 62 Southampton 0.

Oakwood sponsored Andover were singing in the rain last Saturday after their final league game of the season ended in a 12 try soaking of a brave but outclassed Southampton side.

On a pitch more reminiscent of a swimming pool in places, Andover produced some scintilating rugby and only the conditions prevented an even bigger win.

In a game well handelled by referee Ian Pennell, Andover's young side showed what a talented group they can be and sent a clear message that if they can find more consistency they will be a real promotion threat next year.

Welcoming back Marc Wilding and Sam Froggett, returning from the USA, to the bench, they took the game to the visitors and when young back row Matt Moore scored a superb early try the scene was set.

Aaron Hatcher had a fine match all round at number eight and he soon burst from a scrum to extend the lead before giant lock Graham Campbell grabbed his first senior try from a catch and drive at a lineout. Before the break Tom Waite provided the first of his five assists from open play, to feed skipper James Dawson for a lovely try.

In the second half Andover turned the screw further and behind a dominant scrum and solid lineout, Alex Kane and Jack Stott kicked and ran intelligently, terrorising their opponents.

Stand off Todd O’Malley added a superb individual try followed by a second soon after with his trademark kick and chase.

Wilding then grabbed two almost indentical scores sliding in spectacularly through the surface water before Hatcher completed his brace and there was a popular score for young full back Josh Gibbs.

As Southampton finally wilted Elliott Copestake showed tremendous pace to go over and just before the end Campbell went over for his second career try after a 50m dash from Waite was halted just short.

Afterwards coach Andy Waite reflected: “Despite the conditions this was a clinical performance from a bunch of lads who are getting better and better all of the time.'

‘We have a week off followed by the cup semi-final against Fordingbridge and with everyone available I see no reason why we can’t finish on a high.”

Andover were bouyed further after the game when former skipper and coach Wilding confirmed he will still be very much around next season.

“These youngsters gain so much from someone like Marc, both as a player and mentor, that this is a real lift as we look to take another step next year.” said Waite.

There was further celebration as Alex Kane received the coveted Vice President’s Player of the Year Award and he too then committed his future to the club.

“Again this is massive for us' said Waite. “Alex is a key part of our squad and it is vital we hang onto our best players if we are to develop further.

Keeping this squad together and improving it is essential if we are to go for promotion next year and Marc and Alex have sent out all the right messages to our youngsters.”