Datchworth RFC 29 – 20 Wasps Amateurs RFC

In a muddy affair, Datchworth showed true fighting spirit and the improvement in attitude made over the season as they ran out bonus point winners against high flying Wasps. What was always going to be a boggy affair, Datchworth flew out of the blocks as Centre Henry Mountain charged down an opposition kick, fly-hacked through from the half way line and managed to win the race to touch the ball down. Extras could not be added but Datchworth were quick to double their advantage. A continual barrage of pressure from the Datchworth pack led to the opposition back line exposed and a fine finish from Wing James Watt ensured Datchworth were 10-0 up after only 10 minutes.

It did not take long for Wasps to come back into the game however and after an exchanging of penalty kicks and a quick half time turnaround, Wasps soon ran in a try under the sticks. Pressure on the Wasps scrum (a constant theme throughout the match) oddly enough benefitted the visitors on this occasion, from the scrappy ball Wasps moved the ball efficiently down the back line and the guest’s winger ran over the whitewash unimpeded to bring Wasps back into the game. Converting the try, Wasps managed to score very quickly from the restart, carving the hosts back line open and for the first time in the game, Datchworth found themselves behind – 17-13.

In a situation that may have seen Datchworth fold in recent seasons, this was certainly not the case and they came out all guns blazing. Confidence is apparent throughout this young side and it did not take long for the Greens to reassert themselves. Excellent and well thought out pod-work saw the hosts move into the opposition’s 22 and it was then left for full back Tom Bennett to finish off a well executed back move orchestrated by impressive Scrum Half Sean Nicholson. From the restart, Datchworth’s pack again bombarded the Wasps defence. 11 phases of ‘pick and go’s’ from 30 metres out proved to much for Wasps and Datchworth Flanker Mark Holgate bundled over to secure the bonus point try. A following exchange of penalties left the final score to be 29-20. A game of 'three halves' if you like, a stirring opening 20 minutes followed by a dip in performance levels ended with a exhilarating 20 minutes in which see the hosts move to fourth in the table.

A week of rest this Saturday is followed by a tough match to London New Zealand away for Datchworth, a team growing quickly in both confidence and aptitude.