Hammersmith and Fulham 66 Hitchin 7 A new coach at Hitchin will hopefully kickstart their season. South African Rico Van Wyk is the man charged with lifting fortunes after six defeats in their opening seven league fixtures. Depleted Hitchin were soundly t

Hammersmith and Fulham 66 Hitchin 7

A new coach at Hitchin will hopefully kickstart their season.

South African Rico Van Wyk is the man charged with lifting fortunes after six defeats in their opening seven league fixtures.

Depleted Hitchin were soundly thrashed in their trip to unbeaten Hammersmith and Fulham.

Skipper Robert Vivian said: "The players, including the replacements, did not let their heads drop against strong opposition.

"With the appointment of the new club coach this week, I'm sure that the spirit in this side can be harnessed, and that we will turn things round in the second half of the season."

Injuries incurred during the week in training had added to the list of players not available for Saturday.

Their revamped side started well, holding their own in the set pieces.

Against the early run of play, the home side forced a penalty and opened the score to lead by three points.

The well-organised home side ran a number of scything moves from the fringes and capitalised on some poor defending and tackling to run in four tries to finish the half 28 points up.

After the interval, Hitchin created some pressure, with number eight Aiden Barnett launching a deep attack in the opposition's half, with good second phase ball quickly moved down the line.

Bruce Harper committed his defender before freeing the ball to Simeon Green who went over in the corner, skipper Vivian converting.

With James Bull joining James Drury on the touchline following injuries, the visitors had to reorganise.

They found themselves under constant pressure but continued to make tentative forays into the Hammersmith half with Chris Davies, Bruce Harper and Vinnie Keevans all making good ground against the host side.

In defence, Chris Martin and Lee Sheldrake performed particularly well putting in a number of good tackles.

But the tide of attacks were too strong to keep at bay.

The home side ran in six tries, four converted, to finish comprehensive winners, maintaining their impressive record in the league.

Despite the heavy defeat, the Hitchin side continued to compete to the end of the game.