THIS grafted victory in difficult conditions was enough to keep Chippenham top of the league, but it wasn't easy against the powerful visitors.

Earlier in the season, Chippenham had only just scraped a win away at Aylesbury and against a big, powerful team and a big effort was required from all 15 players to keep the winning habit going in the New Year.

The weather played a part in the dour style of rugby displayed and heavy overnight rain meant that the pitch was heavy and a swirling, driving wind did not help kicking.

The early exchanges were fairly even with both sides giving nothing away, but it was Chippenham who made the most of their opportunities.

A break from the halfway line saw full-back David Spiers take the ball and sprint in unchallenged for the opening try. The conversion attempt from scrum-half Andy Williamson was missed and from the restart Aylesbury went on the attack.

The defence held and eventually the home side were able to clear their line.

It was then the turn of the home side to take the iniative and a penalty was given and then marched forward 10 metres as Aylesbury questioned its validity too vehemently.

The attempt on goal was ignored however, and the rest of the first half was a dour struggle as both teams tried to gain the upper hand. Both were guilt of securing possession and then giving it away too easily.

Chippenham were awarded another penalty in first half injury time which was again advanced 10 metres by the referee, and decided to run the ball.

The decision paid off as prop Karl Parry-Curtis barged over to score Chippenham's second try. Andy Williamson this time converted and gave the home side a 12-0 lead at oranges.

Coach Rob Alford made a couple of tactical substitutions in the second half to try and break the game open. Jim Pratt was replaced by Mark Livesey, Alex Fereday was replaced by Dave Martin and Ben Shuker was also brought on, but Aylesbury remained as stubborn as ever.

Chippenham created chances, as did Aylesbury, but neither side could convert them into points. Aylesbury to their credit did not give up and gave Chippenham a few scares with some forceful, driving runs at the defence.

Towards the end of the half, Chippenham were awarded another penalty which was duly converted by Williamson to make it 15-0.

The win and the points will have been welcomed by the coaching staff but the manner and method shown will need some work on during training.

Afterwards head coach Rob Alford was philosophical about the result.

He said: "Sticking with our stated youth policy means that at times we will be out muscled up front but what we lose in bulk we more than make up for in tenacity.

"Whether or not we can stay top of the league for the rest of the season remains to be seen but one things for sure, the foundations laid this season will hold the club in good stead for many seasons to come.

"On Saturday (including replacements) we fielded 10 players aged 23 or under, I doubt that there's another club at this level who will get anywhere near that."