Witney were pipped by South West I leaders leaders Coney Hill’s late fightback to lose 21-20 at Hailey Road.

The Gloucester side, who had taken 30 points from 30 beforehand, needed a try and touchline conversion to seal the win two minutes from time.

Playing on their new pitch, Witney took the lead with a penalty from fly half Pierre Dubost following centre Tom Harper’s run.

Coney Hill’s defence was strong, so Witney had to work hard for their chances, although prop Jamie Burke raised a big cheer with a 50-metre sprint down field.

Dubost was well wide with an ambitious drop-goal attempt, but just before half-time, wing James Monks charged down a clearance to score, Dubost converting for 10-0.

Coney Hill hit back with a converted try.

A great tackle from flanker Carl Campbell saw Witney gain possession and good handling sent Dubost over for a try, which he converted.

Dubost then slotted a penalty, but Witney put themslves under pressure by failing to clear the ball.

The visitors created a slick converted try with ten minutes to go.

Witney had lock Richard Haire sin-binned for not retreating ten metres and then suffered their late heartache.