The start of Snows Group Hampshire 1 came a week too early for Team Solent who were forced to hand opponents Millbrook their opening game.

The students, who had a major say at the top of the table for much of last season, were unable to field a front row, despite desperate efforts from secretary Matt Bishop.

He said: “I’m really disappointed, I did everything I could think of to put a side together.”

Bishop said Solent lost four of their front row at the end of last season as players graduated, but two, who were going to stay, moved to other clubs and left it late to inform him.

The club is almost certain to be docked five points for the cancellation.

He added: “I’m not very happy with it. It’s our fault. We want to apologise to everyone that we need to and want to get out there and get started.”

Team Solent also lost the services of their head coach during the summer, but are interviewing for the post while fly half Tom Morton continues as player/coach.

The students host Fareham Heathens tomorrow.

Heathens were Hampshire 2 runners-up last term and kicked off with a win last week, beating Bognor 20-13.

There are no such selection problems for Fordingbridge who have a couple of players ready to step in for two who are unavailable.

Seconds captain James Gwynne will be propping for the firsts at Romsey while colt Jake Kostelyk makes his second appearance for the seniors.

Bridge’s 57-12 win over the Isle of Wight a week ago put them in their familiar first place inHampshire 1.

Fordingbridge chairman and first XV manager Ian Brown said: “The Isle of Wight made it difficult for us at times but we did play well.

“We don’t take any game for granted. We take each game seriously and will have to against Romsey.”