First defeat of season for Watford after National Junior Vase exit

It was Watford who opened the scoring in wet conditions; Andy Lee, Tom McGee and Luke Bees combining before off-loading to Martin Lee to power across the line.

East London were relying on the big boot of their fly-half to pin Watford back in their own half and having resisted for most of the opening period, the home side eventually conceded a converted try and a penalty to trail 10-5 at the break.

With both sides attempting to keep the ball in hand in improved conditions after the break, Watford drew level when Luke Hammill broke through and rode a tap tackle to cross. With the conversion missed, the game was tied at 10-10.

The visitors roared back and pinned Watford in their own 22 to build the pressure until, with ten minutes remaining, the breakthrough finally came.

A penalty put East London back in front and, with Watford pressing to snatch something from the game, the away side were able to drive through several challenges and score under the posts to take the game beyond the hosts.

Fullerians Seconds produced their best display of the season to date to crush Tring Thirds 76-10 on Saturday – leading the way for the club after the First team had been awarded a walkover.

The Firsts had been due to face Billericay in the Senior Vase Cup, but the opposition were unable to field a team.

A bright start was rewarded by an early try and from there Fullers set the tone for the rest of the contest and dictated play.

With the Firsts supporting on the touchline, strong running from Phil Holby, Sean Wall and Ian Fryer paved the way for a big score and captain Robbie Allen praised his side’s performance.

The Second XV skipper said: “It was a great team effort and many players put their hands up for 1st XV spots with great individual displays.”

Fullerians Fourths lost 32-0 to a strong Mill Hill Seconds, and Fullerians Veterans beat Belsize Park 15-0.