FARNHAM Vets (O35) 41, Sutton & Epsom Vets 21. This Friday evening fixture was a first for L’Escargot and victory under lights sent them to third in Surrey Vets 1, their highest ever league position.

With three fixtures to go, the veterans hope to stay there and book a home tie in the play-offs.

Sutton & Epsom had won the first encounter quite comfortably and Farnham needed their A game to avenge that defeat.

Despite the valiant work of the Wilkinson Way ground staff, there was standing water on parts of the pitch, but both teams were keen to play a passing game.

Making a welcome return from 1st XV duty, Jemi Akin-Olugbade scored Farnham’s first try and, soon afterwards, the middle of the three Brookers added another.

Sutton were in no mood to roll over and came straight back with a converted try, only for Akin-Olugbade to touch down under the sticks and make it 17-7 at half-time.

A replacement spree followed in the second half and Farnham, now playing against the wind, doubled the size (and age) of their front row to provide a steady set-piece platform for the backs to attack.

Akin-Olugbade went over for his hat-trick, but back came Sutton & Epsom and they were right back in contention at 21-22.

Farnham’s spirits were lifted by the eight-point cushion and two charge-downs enabled the middle Brooker to complete his own hat-trick.

Beer and curry followed on a successful evening for the club and a special mention for team manager Terry Whitear who managed the logistically challenging task of getting 25-plus players out for the 70-minute game.