Tottonians were on the back foot for much of their battle with Winchester – but dogged defending and a couple of timely breaks netted them an opening day victory.

Hosts Winchester enjoyed the lion’s share of possession throughout the London 2 South-West clash.

But it was Totts who showed what to do with the ball when they got it – leaving with a 19-8 win.

The sides cancelled out each others’ efforts for the first 25 minutes as they both looked to dominate – even Robbie Searle’s reliable boot failed to affect the scoreboard from the game’s first penalty.

However, that opportunity came from increased pressure by the visitors and it was not long before Gareth Allen touched down for Totts.

They doubled their advantage just after half-time when Searle broke through the defence and fed supporting Scott Rogers before making the conversion.

Winchester finally got on the scoreboard with a Johnny Morris penalty.

Their incessant attacks were rewarded when they pushed their way through Totts’ defence in the corner, flanker Chris Keegan getting the final touch.

Winch looked as though they were capable of crossing the line once more to claim victory, but Totts’ defiant defence always had an answer.

And it was the visitors who struck the final blow – captain Robbie Searle received the ball from a ruck after a line-out and evaded a couple of desperate tackles to place under the posts.

The conversion was the final kick of the match – which was more closely contested than the 19-8 scoreline suggested.

Tottonians coach Gavin Williams said: “I’m delighted to get off to a winning start.

“Defensively we were outstanding.

“In attack we showed some positive things but made some simple errors, but nothing that we can’t work on.

“Winchester are a good side and will beat some quality teams this year.”

Disappointed Winchester counterpart Andy Fields said: “We need to look after the ball a bit better.

“At 12-8 it looked as if we were going to sneak a win, but the thing about Totts is that they never, ever, ever give up.

“They defend their line and work for each other.”

Next weekend Winchester head for Tadley, who lost to KCS on the opening day, while Tottonians host Portsmouth who edged out Old Alleynians by the odd point on Saturday.