Poole RFC narrowly missed out on a long run in the counties 3 south plate.
The Dolphins faced Southsea Nomads RFC last Saturday in what was a strong test before the league season.
The home side started strong, taking a 3-0 lead after dominating the first ten minutes.
However, Poole's resilient defence and strong attacking lines paid off, with Ben Spowart scoring the first try, and Nath Vallory converting to make it 3-7.
The match was closely contested, with both sides having their successes but failing to cross the try line.
Due to Poole's indiscipline, the Nomads managed to close the gap, leaving the score at 9-10 at half-time.
The second half mirrored the first, with committed rugby from both sides.
The home team retook the lead with a fourth penalty, but Poole found a breakthrough with a stunning solo try from Antonio Hidalgo-Souto.
Vallory's successful conversion gave the Dolphins a 12-17 lead with less than ten minutes left.
However, the Nomads refused to lose on their home patch and rumbled over the line just as the referee was about to blow the final whistle.
The conversion was the last kick of the game, leaving the Nomads victorious at 19-17.
