Jersey RFC stand-off Dan Hawkes puts his team back on the attack during another big victory away to Basingstoke on Saturday Picture: Andrew McCargow/Basingstoke Gazette

JERSEY Rugby Club secured an historic 53-19 victory away to old rivals Basingstoke on Saturday but, far more importantly, moved seven points clear at the top of National III South East.

It is believed to be the first time the St Peter club have beaten Basingstoke in a competitive fixture in their long, long history, but it could hardly have been more emphatic – or quickly sealed.

Jersey, who have now won eight league games in a row, stayed in their rich vein of scoring form to virtually secure a bonus-point victory within the opening 20 minutes, with tries from Sam Tuia, Ross Allan, Ashley Maggs, Kern Yates and captain Ross Kenwright.

With stand off Dan Hawkes kicking points as well it is difficult not to overplay the result – against a side who clearly fancied their chances of toppling the league leaders before kick-off – though demanding coach Ben Harvey will be certain to have, at the very least, words to say this week over the first-half defending which resulted in the uncharacteristic leaking of points.