London New Zealand 15pts Barnet Elizabethans 32pts

This match had been postponed three times whilst LNZ won 33-6 at Byng Road in October - but everything went well for BE, starting from the kick-off. The LNZ receiver released the ball to the backs but the midfield passing was telegraphed and so well read by MATT NICHOLAS that he interecepted the pass and ran in for a try from 70 metres out with GLYN BAYLEY adding the conversion before BAYLEY added a penalty goal a few minutes later. The home side responded and forced a try and penalty so they were trailing only 8-10 before BE replied and put LNZ under pressure which resulted in a penalty award on the home 22. The defenders switched off, thinking BE would kick for goal and had no defence when GLYN BAYLEY tapped to himself and ran through for an easy try to give BE a 15-8 half time lead.

BE were still in control, up front, at the restart although they were equally resolute in defence when LNZ ran the ball at them. Eventually, BE regained control and had plenty of territory and possession which resulted in them being awarded penalty after penalty within kickable distance but BE chose to decline these kicks as they sought the territory and try chances. Unfortunately, they had RICKY STEVENS yellow carded for "persistent offences" but the remaining 14 still held firm and then they scored the try of the game - PETER MOULTON burst through into the LNZ half, was well supported by MATT NICHOLAS who took ball up to the 22: as he was tackled, he released ROBBIE CAMERON-STAFF who ran in BE's third try which GLYN BAYLEY also converted. Further forward pressure saw LLOYD MORGAN score the vital fourth try which gave the team the bonus point. Minutes later, a typical jinking run by GLYN BAYLEY finished off a good personal and team performance even though LNZ squeezed a consolation converted try just before the snow fell. That did not dampen BE's heart as they raced off to the warm changing room and their well deserved Easter eggs.

The 1st XV are at home ths Saturday (6th) to Welwyn - kick-off is 3pm.

PGY