Breen hails Hampstead’s display as they complete the double over Staines

Hampstead coach Peter Breen hailed Saturday’s 17-7 home win over Staines as one of the best displays of the season as the hosts completed the double over their visitors in London North-West Division Two.

Playing on a bog and into a strong wind, Hampstead had their work cut out to beat a Staines side who were thirsty for revenge after unexpectedly losing the reverse fixture in November.

The opening exchanges were deep in Hampstead territory, with Staines camped on the try line, but the home team’s pack held strong and fly-half Dave Mold was able to unleash his backs.

It was the electric Will Pettit who scored the first try of the game, with a 60m break that bamboozled the entire Staines team, while Dan Dimoline converted from the touchline.

Hampstead started to look more comfortable and defended excellently through the rest of the half, while the backs continued to make breaks.

Dimoline missed a penalty just before half-time but, seconds later, the indefatigable Pete Evans hacked the ball through for winger James Ferguson and the home team were 14-0 up.

The second half was a story of missed opportunities for Hampstead and a pushover try for Staines, who halved the deficit, but Dimoline added a solitary penalty and was part of an incredible defensive effort as the hosts finished 10 points up.

“That’s one of the best performances in my time at the club,” said Breen. “To do the double over Staines, who came down from the division above last year, is a great effort from all concerned.

“What we need now is consistency. We know we can trouble anyone when we play well, but we’re capable of having major lapses in concentration.”