Despite the side showing several changes from the previous weeks efforts against Saracens, the home team started brightly and were immediately on the front foot. Strong carries from Sam Holloway and Josh Wilkinson made yardage for Watford, the pressure resulting in a 5 metre scrum. The pack showed the form they have done all season and drove Martin Lee over the whitewash for the games opening try, extras added by Simon Bram for a 7-0 lead.

Whilst Watford were in control, West London were proving difficult to break down and looked threatening themselves with the ball in hand. The home sides set piece was narrowly on top, Paul Dunlop enjoying a great deal of success on opposition lineouts as well as providing secure ball for his own side whilst the scrum was its usual reliable self.

Solid foundations allowed the back line to thrive, Sam Holloway showing his power to burst through in the middle of the park and score a fine try under the sticks. Bram’s alien head failed to spot the three people charging at him as he lined up his kick, being charged down to leave the score 12-0.

Unfortunately for Watford, a back line already missing a number of players was further depleted when Richard Yates and Josh Wilkinson both departed with injuries leading to a further reshuffle. This slowed the home sides progress, West London scoring after a kick through before Holloway added his second with a typically powerful run. Within touching distance of the bonus point, Watford switched off and allowed the visitors two unanswered tried to bring the score to 19-17 at half time. West London finished the half in the ascendency, Watford lucky to be in the lead.

After a stern talking to at half time, Watford went back to basics in search of the fourth try and a bonus point which was soon secured after Luke Diston scored in the corner on his return to the 1st XV. West London however were not willing to let Watford out of their sight, and dug deep to score a deserved fourth try of their own.

With the next score sure to prove crucial, the visitors missed a straightforward penalty before Bram slotted one to extend the home sides lead. With time running out, Diston scored his second try in an almost carbon copy of his first to give Watford a hard fought win.

Man of the Match: Sam Holloway / Simon Bram. Sam for his excellent home debut, two powerful runs resulting in two tries (and not going off injured). Simon for showing excellent decision making and game management when under pressure.

WotW: Pete Nelson for throwing a temper tantrum Betsan would have been proud of when being subbed off.