Motors stay in neutral

Datchworth 36
Vauxhall Motors 0
Sat 19/04/2008 - London 3 NW

In the final match of the season which saw bottom of the league play second from bottom, most spectators would be forgiven for thinking this would be a tight affair.

From the off it was obvious that the villagers wanted to put on a united display and replicate some of the fluency witnessed earlier on in the season.

Datchworth made the sensible decision of keeping the ball tight throughout the game and utilising their forward threat. As Vauxhall Motors started to fatigue, Datchworth started to put points on the board. 5 of the villagers 6 tries came from their forwards.

Datchworth were 29-0 up at half time having played down hill with a try from Richard Elvery, winger Marc Bush, Anthony Stone, as well as a pick-and-go at the base of the scrum, from No 8 Matthew Francis.

Second half the villagers defence was solid giving away little or no penalties, and it wasn't long before Datchworth's hooker, Elvery, powered through to score his second try of the afternoon.

Datchworth were dominant in all areas but special mention has to be paid to the home team's lineout. With Matthew Francis in fine form and jumping at the front, Datch didn't lose a lineout all day and constantly ruined opposition ball.

In a game that saw Datchworth dominate possession and territory, they were able to play some 'young guns' straight from the Colt academy. Particular mention is due for debutant Greg Childs who came on at Second Row against a big Luton pack.

Although Datchworth are now moving down a division, and despite a season of poor results, the villagers are clearly looking forward to some serious regrouping over the summer. With a mixture of very talented young players and the experience of a few older heads, Datchworth have the makings of a successful and exciting team next year.

Datchworth can take a lot of heart from this week's display and with the last two home games bringing clean sheets, the desire to remain competitive and successful has never been greater.