AN unexpectedly comfortable victory by 28-6 away to Sutton and Epsom allowed Richmond Rugby Club to move to second in London 1 on Saturday.

Despite regular fixtures over the last five years, this was the first time the two sides have met in the league and it was all over by half time.

The visiting side went ahead in the third minute, with Ben Sullivan crossing after the ball was released quickly from the lineout and Lewis Gunn converted.

Sutton pulled themselves back into the game by kicking two quick penalties before Richmond regained control.

Dan Taberner squeezed over the line for the visiting side's second converted try.

With half an hour played, Neil Piggot was put over by Tom Stokes for Richmond's third and as half time drew closer Jonathan Farmer was driven over the line for Richmond's final try of the game. Gunn converted both.

Richmond camped on their opponents line for long periods in the second half but failed to break the home side's defence.

Scorers for Richmond: tries- Sullivan, Taberner, Piggot, Farmer Convs - Gunn (4)

Richmond team: Piggot, O'Shea, MacLennan, Sullivan (Ajuwa), Stokes, Gunn, Taberner (C), Lodder, Bolton, Gregory (Yeldham), Dixon (Bamford), Wilson, Farmer, Barlow, Evans.

Richmond have a week off before returning to league action at home to Old Colfeians on December 4.

l Extensive reports appear in the Richmond and Twickenham Times - out tomorrow!