Watford into Semi Final

Despite some confusion over the kick off time, Watford came out of the blocks strongly. The away sides forwards were in particularly fine fettle at the set piece, front rowers Luke Bees, Sanchez Philpott and JR Greyling giving the opposition front row a torrid time. Watford’s back line revelled in the time and space afforded to them by their pack, Luke Diston and Ian Butcher both looking dangerous when in space with the ball in hand. Watford’s first score came as a result of a newfound work ethic amongst the team. A huge kick from Tom McGee into the oppositions 22 was chased hard by Portway, Dunlop and Diston causing a fumble. Watford were able to turnover the ball, and McGee scored one of the easier tries of his career from close range out wide. With the conversion missed the score was 5-0 to Watford. The visitors were soon on the attack again, and a Borehamwood knock on 15 metres out gave Watford the perfect platform to exert their dominance up front. A powerful scrum drove Watford up to the Borehamwood line, and when the scrum was collapsed the referee had no hesitation in awarding a penalty try. With the extras added, Watford had some breathing space however this was to soon change. Paul Dunlop was sent to the bin for an accidental tip tackle, and whilst a man up Borehamwood scored after a quick break around the side of the ruck. The half time score was 12-7 Watford, and the visitors knew they were in a battle.

The second half continued in much the same vein as the first. Having been warned by the referee about their dominance in the scrum being dangerous, Watford were forced to ease off at the set piece and as a result Borehamwood were able to enjoy more territory and possession. It was during these spells that Watford showed their character, Man of the Match Adam Hancock especially impressive with his tackling and work at the breakdown. It was from good work at the breakdown that Watford earned a long range penalty, which was duly converted by McGee. With their lead more than two scores, Watford relaxed and began to play some good rugby. A final score was added when Martin Lee crashed over from close range, making the final score 20-7 in Watford’s favour.

Watford 1st XV: Greyling, Philpott, Bees, Kingsford, Tucker, Reeve, Hancock, M. Lee, Hopkins, McGee, Portway, A. Lee, Dunlop, Diston, Butcher

Subs: Kiely, Braun, G. Wilson