Locks Heath Pumas have opened up a gap at the top of Snows Group Hampshire 2 after a bruising battle against Southampton.

The 27-24 victory at Test Park – and Ventnor’s first defeat of the season at home to Chineham – means Pumas now have a six-point lead at the head of the table.

But the visitors were made to fight for every point from a home side who also want to get back into Hampshire 1.

Saints dominated the opening minutes of the game and went ahead through an Arron Enock penalty and try from Maika Burenivalu.

Pumas hit back to lead the contest 17-8 at the break – flanker Gareth Mansfield and wing Damien Sambrook crossing the line, and Nick DeStefano kicking a couple of conversions and a penalty.

Saints were always in the game but a string of penalties were cancelled out by touchdowns from Liam Moggeridge and full back Matt Newton.

Pumas were forced to hold on in the close encounter as Southampton dominated the final stages and were awarded a penalty try which left them three points short of their opponents.

Pumas coach Jim Pearce said: “It was a very, very tough and physical game. Southampton are a big bunch of boys and a well-drilled side.

“They did not let us get into our pattern of play but when we did we managed to take advantage and score our tries.”