JOE Desmond’s double-try haul proved not enough as Swanage & Wareham fell to a 19-15 home defeat to league leaders Grove.

Nick Audley also crossed for Swans, who picked up a losing Southern Counties South bonus point for their efforts.

Swans got off to a super start when number eight Joe Desmond went over the try line after five minutes.

Seven minutes later, Desmond crossed once more to put the hosts 10-0 ahead.

But leaders Grove rallied and a slick move got the visitors into Swans’ 22.

From a scrum, the ball was moved to the full-back, who sliced through the hosts’ defence to touch down a score which was converted.

Grove took the lead as they drove over from a maul midway through the opening period but Swans continued to attack and skipper Audley powered over to give the hosts a one-point lead at the break.

But as conditions worsened in the second period, Grove found the try they needed to scupper Swans’ efforts and seal victory.