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.
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