DEVIZES slipped to an eighth successive South West One East defeat, but still came away with some positives from a derby defeat by Swindon.

The Saddlebacks started the better with the opening first five minutes or so showcasing their attacking intent.

Good carries from James Gaiger, Lewis Paget and Will Paviour made the ground and winger Jorge Wadman’s break allowed Paget to go over, but the try was disallowed.

Swindon responded with big ball carriers in number eight Tom Mannion, hooker Ollie Wallicker and second row Dave Cox but initially, Devizes’ defence held firm.

Just after the quarter hour mark though,, Mannion carried off the back of a solid scrum and burrowed over with Adam Westall adding the conversion.

From the restart things got worse for the home side as Wadman spent ten minutes in the sin-bin for taking a man out in the air.

Swindon continued to make inroads and extended their lead with a forwards try from close range.

Still in the game, Devizes lost prop Ben Browne and centre Rory Brown to injuries, but responded just after half time.

Nice hands by Andy Thompson into Craig Bryant allowed Chris Barter to make a searing break through the defence.

Mark Carter supported and then found Luke Rapson for a try Thompson converted.

Thompson missed a penalty but the home side continued to press forward and nearly scored again through Gaiger and Jo Alford.

But Swindon held out and a fortuitous bounce from a kick allowed them to touch down again, Westall kicking the conversion.

Two late tries, one from Westall put gloss on the victory for the visitors.