DRIFTERS defeated local rivals Phoenix for the second time in as many months when they won 62-5 in the Bucks, Berks & Oxon Premier League.

Having knocked them out of the cup last month, the Farnham Common side were confident but still wary of a team with a point to prove.

But Alex Rankin scored four tries on Saturday to maintain Drifters' 100 per cent record after six games.

Phoenix started quickly with a scrum on the five-metre line but Drifters defended well and then took the lead moments later when Rankin sprinted home ahead of three covering defenders.

Five minutes later, Dan Lake scored after breaking away from the back of the ruck, with Mark Bannister getting the extras and then adding a penalty, after a Phoenix forward was sinbinned.

Drifters took advantage of that and Rankin added two further tries in a 10-minute spell that were both converted. Stuart Bullimore touched down the final try of the half to make it 36-0.

Lake then ran in his second of the game with Bannister converting. But Drifters then took their foot off the gas and allowed the hosts to get five points on the scoresheet with an unconverted try.

Good interplay between Bannister and Andrew Milton put the former under the posts while Rankin picked up his fourth of the day with an outrageous interception. Milton then rounded off the victory with a strong run to make the final score 62-5.

Drifters will face their biggest test of the season on Saturday when they take on fellow unbeaten rivals Thatcham in a top-of-the-table clash at One Pin Lane (2.30pm ko).

Thatcham have won all six of their games but are top on points difference thanks to their superior scoring record.

Meanwhile, at the other end of the table, Phoenix face a crucial clash against bottom club and fellow strugglers Hungerford at home (2.30pm ko).

Both teams have yet to register a win this season, with Phoenix performing marginally better having picked up a draw and two bonus points.