Cobham showed why they are London One South title contenders with a 21-11 win over Wimbledon on Saturday.

Their strong-running backs look a constant threat, the hefty pack is mobile and well-drilled and the team’s defence is excellent.

But Wimbledon, missing a number of key players could, with a couple of kinder bounces and a little more self-belief, have pulled off a surprise win.

Although Cobham scored a pushover try early in the second half to go 8-6 ahead, the game was in the balance until the last ten minutes, when Cobham’s best move of the game brought them a fine converted try.

But when Dons’ pacey prop Pete Wallace touched down moments later to bring the score to 15-11, an upset again looked a real possibility.

Cobham kept their composure though, and two well-struck penalties in the dying minutes saw then home with a slightly flattering margin.

But Wimbledon, missing a number of key players could, with a couple of kinder bounces and a little more self-belief, have pulled off a surprise win.

In a fast and furious game, Wimbledon withstood heavy pressure and somehow emerged from the opening fifteen minutes, three points ahead, courtesy of a Dave Rees penalty.

From then on the game flowed from end to end, with some lovely breaks by Dons’ wing Jonny Rawlinson and fullback Dave Charles – and fine defence from centres Steve Duggan and Mike Willoughby.

Wing Benoit Midot showed the qualities of an extra flanker alongside the ever-present Herman van der Merwe and Julian Callanan, who had another outstanding game. In the lineout Ben Morgan had his best game in a Wimbledon shirt, well supported by fellow lock Nick Sany and number eight Mal English.

The front row of Wallace, Graham Symons and Ben Davies again proved a much for heftier opponents, even gaining the upper hand in the final quarter.

Cobham’s advantage, however, was their pack’s speed to and ability in the rucks, which enabled them to get quick ball for their backs and to slow down Wimbledon’s – so much so that scrum half Alex Pyes and his half back partner Rees did really well to give so much attacking ball to their backs.

Wimbledon host Chichester next Saturday.