Datchworth back in action

A new-look Datchworth 1st XV took the field against newly-promoted London Welsh. With new signing Ed Cockburn making his debut at scrum half, the new centre partnership of Geoff Clapp and Louis Watts was perhaps the biggest change in a side that also saw Alex Nolan introduced as a forward for the first time.

Welsh started well with ball in hand, but a resolute home defence kept the visitors at bay during the initial onslaught; Brunton finally putting the Greens in the Welsh half with a well-struck clearance.

The visitors fought their way back into scoring territory and a dummy run left centre David Gabe with an easy run in. The conversion was a formality putting London Welsh 7 points in front after 10 minutes.

Datchworth had the majority of the possession for the remainder of the half which included three scoring opportunities in quick succession; a break from Clapp and two excellent chances for the forwards to rumble over were turned over by a well drilled Welsh pack.

A fourth chance came from a tap-and-go by Cockburn, who found Jamie Smith on the charge. With yards gained the ball was soon out to Clapp who made further ground and released Tom Bennett down the right wing; his offload back inside inches wide of giving Datchworth their first points.

London Welsh added to their tally with a penalty goal before one last Datchworth attack - a counter by Jack McDonald - was bundled into touch for the half time whistle.

The second half started slowly, neither side allowing the other to play in what continued to be a tight contest. The visitors always looked to be slightly more in control as both teams struggled past two phases. 15 minutes in the deadlock was broken; London Welsh earning a penalty kick which was duly despatched to touch for a 5m line out from which hooker Chris Carns went over for a 15 point cushion.

With their tails up, the visitors looked for more points but Datchworth did well in turning over the ball and earning their fair share of possession. Rare attacking chances for the home side came to nothing as London Welsh pushed for territory.

Another line out, another rolling maul and another try for Carns - with the conversion just side - saw Datchworth 20 points adrift with not long on the clock. Alex Nolan bagged a try as the Greens chased the game, bursting through a tackle to run in unopposed. Brunton added the extras with a fantastic effort from the touchline.

The final try of the day came again from London Welsh, the backs finally working from a solid platform. Despite a crunching tackle in midfield by Geoff Clapp, a 3 man overlap saw Oscar Neme go over out wide. A good conversion attempt made it 7-27 at full time.

Disappointing result, but a promising performance against solid opposition.

Next up; Cheshunt at home on 15th September.