Hampstead women’s second string held on for a nailbiting win over Hitchin.
The north London club had the better of the first half play to build a 19-0 lead by the half-time break.
A superb lineout and driving maul led to captain Alexia Troian Gautier going over for the first try, with Lydia Hartridge storming over for a second after some strong running from Carol Evans.
Keshia Evans added a superb conversion and good work by the forwards set up Gautier after a perfectly timed run.
Hitchin hit back from a penalty close to the line after the restart and found space out wide as Hampstead spent a lengthy spell on the back foot.
But some good phases of play saw Hampstead move downfield and new recruit Melissa Roper ran in at the corner to secure a 24-22 victory.
Flanker Alex Bowtell took the forward of the match award, whie Hartridge was named back of the match.
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