A hard day at the office in the city

The game got off to a good start with the first 5 minutes proving an even contest. Both sides were putting good moves together and gaining good yards from both the scrum and line outs, with Finchley making a break up the wing through Weber.

This even match up was also evident in defence with both sides holding the gain line well, with the back row for Finchley putting in some big shots to put pressure on the opposition. This was coupled by some great three quarters defence from Rogers and Cormack which on a number of occasions throughout the afternoon led to Belsize missing their moves and lines.

Finchley got their first opportunity for points through a penalty which unfortunately was missed by Earl.

This was to prove costly for Finchley Belsize put some good quick patterns of play together to score the games first try. 5-0

This was quickly followed by another well worked try by the home side which was converted, 12-0.

With the first half winding down Finchley registered their first and only points of the afternoon through a penalty slotted by Earl.

Half time: 12-3

The second half mirrored the first for both teams with some good defence forcing mistakes and some attractive quick rugby being played.

During the 2nd half Belsize were able to convert one penalty and score one more try which was converted.

Final score: 22-3

This was a solid performance by Finchley in a hard fought game that took its toll on both sides with some huge collisions on the field. Although this fixture proved that in order for the men from Summers Lane to compete at the top of the league they must take their opportunities when they are on offer, something the home team did well on the day.

Next week sees Finchley welcome bottom side Wasps to Summers Lane and the men in red and grey will be looking to bounce back from a hard day at the office.