Plucky Hendon bow out in sevens semi
HENDON narrowly missed out on reaching the final of their own Sevens tournament, losing by just two points to Vauxhall Motors in the last four at Copthall on Sunday - writes Pat Mooney. Vauxhall, who were managed by ex-Hendon coach John Brown and included three ex-Hendon
HENDON narrowly missed out on reaching the final of their own Sevens tournament, losing by just two points to Vauxhall Motors in the last four at Copthall on Sunday.
Vauxhall, who were managed by ex-Hendon coach John Brown and included three ex-Hendon players, squeezed through 12-10 in a thrilling semi-final.
The home side opened the scoring with an unconverted try from PJ Cremin before Vauxhall hit back to lead with a goal.
Hendon then regained the lead with a second try from Kosy Mutuma but Vauxhall regained the lead with an unconverted try.
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The home side had a great chance to win the tie in the closing minutes when they were awarded a penalty.
But, instead of running the ball in for a try, they opted for a kick at goal, which was missed by Liam Maughan.
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Hendon (pictured right) had won all of their group matches, including victory over local rivals Hampstead 38-7.
In the other semi-final, UCS Old Boys, fresh from landing promotion in the London Leagues, found holders Chiswick too hot to handle and went down 47-0.
The final saw a repeat of last year's decider and once again Chiswick's superior fitness and stamina were the decisive factors in over-running Vauxhall 41-5 to retain the Teddy Knox Trophy.
The Plate Competition - for second-placed teams - was won by Hammersmith & Fulham, who beat Enfield Ignatians 31-5 in the decider.
Hammersmith thrashed Fullerians 43-0 in the semi-final while Enfield overpowered Barnet 26-14 in the other semi.
Old Ashmolians collected the Seamus Lavelle Bowl - for third placed teams - with a 17-5 victory over Worth Old Boys in the final.
In the semis, Ashmolians overpowered Vauxhall Motors seconds 47-5 while Worth defeated Hampstead 33-19.
"The standard of rugby was again of the highest order," said tournament organiser Craig Silver. "A total of 16 teams took part in four pools of four teams. Finchley were the only 'no show' club on the day and were replaced by Fullerians."
On Saturday the Middlesex Club Sevens tournament takes place at Richmond RFC.
l Hendon beat UCS Old Boys 33-17 to reach the final of the North Group Floodlight Cup last Wednesday. They meet Mill Hill at Finchley RFC next Wednesday.
pat.mooney@hamhigh.co.uk
