Watford were at their ruthless best to record the biggest win the club's history on Saturday, running in 18 tries as they trounced Ickenham 114-7 in Herts/Middlesex Two.

After a three week break from league during the Rugby World Cup, Watford returned to action knowing a convincing win was needed in order to stay in touch with leaders Hendon and Saracens Amateurs.

Despite less than favourable conditions, including a strong crosswind, Watford flew out of the blocks and were on the scoreboard within two minutes after a typically powerful burst from Andy Lee, who scored a second almost immediately from the re-start.

Watford were in the ascendancy and a hook against the head within their own half saw Mark Hill break down the blind side. Hill drew the Ickenham cover defence before releasing Richard Yates to score.

Turnover ball at the scrum saw Simon Bram release Andy Lee to complete a first-half hat-trick.

A quickly taken tap penalty after Ickenham collapsed the scrum saw Martin Lee hauled down just short; Ricky Flint picking and driving over.

Luke Bees followed suit soon after, showing a great turn of pace to scythe through and score under the posts.

With the first half nearly up, Watford scored their eighth try after a fine break from James Braun saw the ball recycled to Sean Silver for a simple finish.

Watford continued where they left off after the break, running in another ten tries.

Yates and Silver both showed searing pace to score a second half brace each, in the process completing their hat tricks, whilst Dave Kingsford added a pair of his own to cap a fine performance.

Andy Lee landed his fourth with another strong run from long range, followed by a pair of tries for Paul Dunlop.

In the midst of Watford’s scoring, Ickenham emptied their bench and scored a well deserved try of their own.

With the last play of the game, Ricky Flint was once more in support to pick and drive over the line from close range.

Watford’s victory was not without cost. Winger John Portway departed with a broken ankle, whilst James Braun Luke Hammill and Jon McClennon all left the field with facial injuries.

Reflecting on the win, skipper Martin Lee said: "Despite the three week break from the league there has been no let up in the intensity or numbers at training.

"Competition for places is fierce and we showed today that despite missing a couple of players and having to make some enforced changes we have the squad depth to maintain a challenge this year.

"As well as we played, there are still improvements to make – we left a few tries out there today."

Watford host table-toppers Hendon at Radlett Road on Saturday at 2pm.