Herts/Middlesex One: Hendon 10 Barnet Elizabethans 17

Hendon continue to look over their shoulders in Herts/Middlesex One after losing 17-10 at home to Barnet Elizabethans.

The hosts started the game playing up the slope, but spent much of the opening exchanges inside the opposition half.

After being awarded a series of penalties, Hendon finally made their pressure tell in the 15th minute.

Flanker Chris Kiyingi strode forward for the hosts and though he was tackled on the line, his long reach was enough for him to dot the ball down over the whitewash.

Hendon could have added to that try with a string of other chances, but were unable to make the most of them.

Just before half time, Barnet scored a try of their own when one of their wingers latched on to a long kick from defence to tie the game at 5-5.

The visitors began the second half brightly, but were unable to find a way through a resolute Hendon defence.

However, a well worked move eventually saw Barnet move through the defence to cross for a converted try.

The match was still there for Hendon’s taking, though, and they went over for a second try soon after.

After applying plenty of pressure, Kiyingi crossed for his second try, though the conversion was missed, meaning the hosts trailed 12-10 with 10 minutes remaining.

Hendon continued their offensive as they looked for what would be a match-winning scored, but were unable to come up with one.

Barnet were then able to extend their lead with another fine backline move that split the home defence with five minutes to go.

There was still a chance for Hendon to claim a draw from the match, but they could not muster the converted try they needed.

However, the hosts were able to claim a losing bonus point for their efforts against Barnet.

Hendon currently sit 10th in the table, though are currently eight points clear of the relegation zone, which currently contains Watford and London French.

Hendon are now without a match until January 27 when they make the trip to Saracens Amateurs.