Fullerians 12 – 18 Datchworth

Wednesday 6th April, Harrow RFC. Semi-final of Herts County Cup.

Having already beaten Harpenden (who are the league above) in their quarter final, Datchworth went into their semi-final as huge underdogs against Fullerians, who are flying high top of London North West Two (Datchworth the league below). Not to be deterred, Datchworth came out flying and soon took the lead. Playing into the wind at Harrow RFC under the floodlights, Datchworth took the game to Fullers and defended with intensity. Deep into the Fullerians half, Datchworth charged down a kick. Centre Alex Nolan rushed through onto the ball, only for it to edge past the deadball line so he couldn’t get the score. From the ensuing 22 drop out, Datchworth marched straight back into the Fullerians half, barraging the opposition defence and were soon on their line again. At the back of a ruck, Flanker Marcus Potter sniffed a gap and dived over, fly half & captain Tom Wood handsomely adding the extras.

Continuing the pressure, Datchworth had a second try disallowed and then won a penalty in front of the posts for continual infringements at the breakdown. Wood slotted to give Datchworth a 10 point lead. This seemed to ignite Fullerians and they themselves started to play some impressive rugby. Dominating at scrum time, Fullerians marched up the field and found themselves within 15 metres of Datchworth’s line. A fine backs move saw space out wide for their Winger to crash over and get themselves back in the game. Just before half time, Fullerians had a penalty and kicked for the corner. An impressive lineout drive saw them score their second try of the half and go in after 40 minutes 12-10 up.

The lead changed hands for a third and final time moments after half time. Datchworth straight into Fullerians half set fly-half Wood up for a drop goal which was slotted impressively. After a number of substitutions from both sides, the game lost a bit of momentum, both sides not being able to finish a number of attacks. Then, with 20 minutes to go, Datchworth scored their second try. John Simons, a revelation at second row this year, broke through and demonstrated lightning pace to run in from 50 metres out evading 4 tackles, Wood couldn’t add the extras. There was still time for a few penalty attempts from Datchworth, though again they could not be converted. With time running out and Datchworth under pressure, the yellow card was shown though Fullerians couldn’t make the most of the extra man and Datchworth run out unexpected winners.

The final is to be played at Allianz Park on the 30th April against local rivals Stevenage, who themselves had an impressive result, beating Welwyn 41-37 in the second semi-final.