Griffins out of touch on season's eve

Hendon 21, Hackney 10

THIS was far from the ideal preparation for Hackney RFC 's new campaign in the Herts-Middlesex Div 3, which begins this weekend away at Watford.

The Griffins looked decidedly rusty in this last preparation game and at no time did they re-produce anything like their form at the end of last season, when they clinched the Div 4 title. The wet conditions thwarted any attempts to play the fast running rugby that was the side's hallmark last season.

Nevertheless, Hackney began the game well and used the elements to their advantage. But they made silly mistakes time and again and some poor handling and an inability to keep hold of the ball in almost any circumstances, cost them dearly.

They managed to score first, when from quick ball from a set piece, Shaun Collins collected to help himself to a first score of the season. Debutant Alex O'Hara added the goal points and then landed a penalty soon afterwards to see Hackney 10-nil ahead.

But the Griffins went through a bad patch just before the interval and it was at this point that their hosts really took advantage.

Hendon got back in the game when one of their big props rumbled over under the posts.

In the second-half, Hackney offered little in the way of an attacking threat and it was their hosts who crossed twice midway through to secure the victory.

The north London side's greater experience ensured that they held their advantage fairly comfortably and was probably the difference between the sides.

Hackney had given a better defensive display than against Cheshunt the previous week, but will need to improve if they are to take any reward from the visit to Watford in the season's opener.

HACKNEY: Holgate, Cartwright J, Williams, Young, Cartwright N, Beno, Davis, Hart, Finn, Moore, Wright, Spencer, Collins, Uyanwune, O'Hara. Reserves: Brace, Wilson, Fanning.