Old Merchant Taylors' tenth successive win boosted their promotion hopes after thrashing Old Streetonians 71-6 in London Three North West.

The hosts ran in 11 tries which leaves them third in the table but with a game in hand on leaders Grasshoppers. OMTs also have the best bonus-point record and the highest points difference in the league.

Although Streetonians opened the scoring with two early penalties, OMTs soon took control and with four tries and the bonus-point achieved within 30 minutes, it was an opportunity for coach Francois Lombard to look at new signings and returning players in new combinations.

Joe White and James Gregory both scored hat-tricks, while new signing Tuks Soko, playing alongside his brother, scored on his debut. Pete Sinderberry’s boots were in good order and he contributed 14 points to add to Streets' misery.

This was the sixth successive league match where the side denied an opposing team a single try. Johnny Rabo, loose-head prop, was awarded man-of-the-match for his aggressive play and commitment.

OMTs now face Harrow RFC in crucial back-to-back matches against the title contenders. This weekend is a league match before hosting them in the London final of the Senior Vase.

Manager Gordon Brown said: "This was another good win, and although we had previously beaten Streets away, it is always a nervous time until you secure the bonus point.

"Full credit however to Streets as they never gave up and played in great spirit. Now the hard work starts as we face Harrow for two consecutive weeks and the intensity steps up, with several players pushing for places.

"We are looking forward to it immensely and would encourage all our supporters to put the next two Saturdays firmly into their diaries."