Match Report

By Harry Jones at Crook Log Sports Centre, London

The Argonauts showed their overall class and showcased just why they’re the defending champions, controlling all but three minutes of their 78-4 win over Hereford Harriers.

Youngster Edward Fields showcased his speed and agility as he raced through on three occasions in the first half.

Richard Carver, Fred Nye and Rick Rodgers also crossed before half-time with Keiron Hammond scoring twice.

Goals veterans from Nye and Pete Johnston Jnr gave Argonauts a 42-0 lead.

The Harriers tested the home side’s line defence on of occasions but were held out every time, with the only exception coming when Jacob Robinson was able squeeze over in the corner to put the score at 42-4 at the break.

The second half started with both teams exchanging sets, strong defence by both teams meant it took until the seventh minute for the first score as Pete Johnston was over once again, successfully adding the extras.

The Harriers were not able to forge some attacking momentum as they were penalised just two tackles in when the Argonauts took full advantage of as Johnston was once again able to cross between the uprights to extend his sides lead even further.

Former Wales International Alan Caron tried to rally his team but some strong defence by the Argonauts showed just why they are the defending champions and surely one of the favourites to regain the trophy come seasons end.

Once again there was a patch of some strong defence by both teams as it took until 23rd minute as some passing play by the Argonauts led to Fields crossing for another in the corner and after some confusion by the match officials, the conversion attempt was eventually ruled out.

After an error strung phase, Fields was once again able to cross in the corner and after some errors by both sides Ellie Cockerton was over in the corner after some great handling. The home side were able to go back-to-back after a Fred Nye break from kick-off led to a Kieron Hammond try under the sticks, Nye able to add the extras taking the score to 72-4 with little under two minutes to play.

With just 30 seconds on the clock, after some fantastic interchange rugby between Cockerton and Hammond led to Nye crossing in the corner. However in the middle of all the play Hereford were dealt a blow as Toni Woof got injured.

Nye’s conversion attempt was perfect which led to a final score of 78-4 in favour of the home team.