Hodgson masterclass seals Sarries win (From Watford Observer)

Charlie Hodgson scores all the points for Saracens as the Men in Black beat London Welsh 28-23

6:21pm Sunday 7th October 2012 in Sport By Tom Allnutt

Charlie Hodgson made sure Gavin Henson's first start for London Welsh was not a happy one as the fly-half scored all of Saracens' points in a 28-23 win.

It wasn't all plain sailing though as the hosts took an early lead when Phil MacKenzie kicked over the top before winning the chase and taking the ball over the line.

Indiscipline though from the home side allowed Hodgson to reduce the deficit from the tee before Saracens took the lead when the fly-half darted under the posts after a pass from Richard Wigglesworth.

It was Saracens' first try in three matches.

Three penalties from Hodgson and two from Henson gave Saracens a narrow 19-13 lead at half time and that was extended to 25-13 soon after the break with two more Hodgson penalties.

Henson kicked over to make it 25-16 and the the hosts pulled themselves back into the match even further when Tom Arscott was on hand to take advantage of Nick Scott's impressive break away to touch down.

Henson converted to make it 25-23 and set up a grand finale but Hodgson extended Saracens' lead with his seventh penalty four minutes from time and the visitors held on for their second consecutive victory.

Up next for Saracens is a trip to Murrayfield next Saturday when they take on  Edinburgh in the Heineken Cup.