What was always going to be a tough finale to the season visiting league winners Harrow, this was made even tougher before kick off with a few last minute dropouts reducing the team to 15 men only.
Datchworth actually took the lead, Sam McBroom catching the high ball, making good ground before releasing Jamie ‘Pumba’ Smith to bundle over in the corner, fly-half Wood could not add the extras. This seemed to spark Harrow into life, and came a barrage of attacks from what is/was undoubtedly the most physical side in the league.
Harrow actually scored a penalty to get them off the mark, soon followed by the first of three tries from their rampaging and very quick number 8. After resilient defending, the 8 found space near the wing, brushed off a last ditch tackle to score in the corner (converted). Datchworth immediately hit back, a well worked forward lineout saw captain and no. 8 Matt Francis score in the corner. Soon after another period of defending, Datchworth dropped to 14 men (as they had no subs) – flanker Rob Lindsey went off with an injured shoulder after an impressive opening 20 minutes. Harrow took full advantage, broke through the Datchworth midfield and scored under the posts (converted). Two more tries, (including 1 from their no. 8) saw the half time score 29-10.
Datchworth came out firing in the second half though were over-awed by Harrow’s physical presence (including the biggest second row in the league, if not the world). Harrow’s number eight secured his hattrick after 50 minutes (36-10), and followed up with three more tries, a conversion and drop goal to put the game out of side. Datchworth weren’t helped by dropping to 13 men after 60 minutes, a second injury cost them dearly.
It was a plucky performance with many positives to take from for the men in green. Strong performances from Nick Moore, John Simons and Rob Lindsey, all of whom stepping up mean there will be stern competition for places next season. That combined with a much more attacking brand of rugby, Datchworth will be looking to convert the 6 games lost in the league this year by less than seven points into wins to make a push for promotion come 2014/15.
Datchworth hold their annual dinner dance and end of season awards this Saturday at their club, details on the website for further info.