Datchworth RFC 3 – 41 Twickenham RFC

The men in green had high hopes going into their post new year match with league leaders Twickenham, high in confidence on a five match winning streak. However it was not to be as the impressive South West outfit showed superior fitness levels and ability in the closing quarter of the game.

The first half was a tight affair, having scored an early penalty Twickenham pressed hard but outstanding Datchworth defence meant they could not find away through. It was only the 30th minute that saw them score their opening try and an exciting one at that. Consistent phase play and quick ball lead to an overlap on the wing, adept hands seeing the visitor’s Winger crossing the line, Twickenham’s Fly Half could not add the extras. Datchworth took it straight back to Twickenham, firstly Mark Holgate blazing through the guests defence, making 50 metres, only to botch the try scoring pass when one on one with the full-back. Five minutes later a break from centre Henry Mountain led to an opening for centre partner Rob Campbell-Davis, though he fell agonisingly short of the line following an outstanding last ditch tackle from Twickenham’s full back. With fast time fast approaching, the visitors had one last attack which saw them pick apart the Datchworth back line and score a second try, leaving the half time score 13-0.

Very much still in the game, Datchworth came out firing, Tom Wood immediately slotting a long distance drop goal. Devastating runs from front-row compatriots Sam McBroom & Nick Gudgin saw Datchworth make great yardage, only again to find themselves coming up just short of the line. In the 55th minute, having impressively soaked up the host’s pressure, Twickenham intercepted, scored from the interception and converted to put the game effectively out of site at 20-3. Datchworth weren’t as fit as their opponents, few too many Christmas drinks taking their toll and Twickenham scored three more tries to leave the game with a deceptively one sided scoreline. An admission from Twickenham that this had been their hardest game of the season is testament to a much improved Datchworth side and confidence will still be strong as they visit high flying Old Priorians this Saturday.