Datchworth 12 – 24 Belsize Park

On a blustery afternoon, Datchworth were looking to make amends for a poor result against Hemel Hempstead last time out, though it wasn’t to be. Normally quick out of the blocks, Datchworth started the slower of the two teams and soon found themselves two tries down. The first saw Datchworth attacking their opponent’s 22, though a strong counter-ruck saw Belsize turnover the ball. From there they moved down the pitch with blistering pace, a few well worked offloads and they were under the posts. From the restart, Belsize Park managed to bust through the Datchworth ruck in the guard area and again broke down the pitch. Datchworth’s defence scrambled well, though three phases later Belsize sniffed another gap in the defence and soon found themselves 12-0 up. Still time for a third try before half time, a quickly taken penalty saw Datchworth trudge in at half time 19-0 down.

The hosts changed things for the second half, bringing Wing Craig Rowlinson on & hooker Tom Blackwell. Initially though it didn’t make too much difference as Belsize secured their fourth try of the game securing the bonus point. Ruthless efficiency at the breakdown saw them work their way into Datchworth’s 22, from there they bust the guard defence again and took a 24 point lead. Datchworth to their credit, came back fighting. Having strengthened the scrum, they were now using it as a platform to attack with more impetus and were rewarded with a try of their own. The ball quickly worked it’s way down the backline finding it’s way to Rowlinson who scored in the corner. With 15 minutes to go Datchworth scored their second, captain Tom Wood sniping excellently at the breakdown to bundle over. With their tails up, Datchworth started to apply real pressure though the resolute Belsize Park defence stood firm and a third try wasn’t to be.

This Saturday sees Datchworth visit bottom of the league Wasps where they’ll be looking to get their season back on track.