London New Zealand 14 Datchworth 9 DEFIANT Datchworth pushed the unbeaten league leaders all the way in this top of the table clash. Scoring a try in each half, the Kiwis ran out narrow winners by five points and look unstoppable in the London Four North

London New Zealand 14 Datchworth 9

DEFIANT Datchworth pushed the unbeaten league leaders all the way in this top of the table clash.

Scoring a try in each half, the Kiwis ran out narrow winners by five points and look unstoppable in the London Four North West title race.

To add to the intensity of the game, London New Zealand performed their club Haka before kick-off.

Playing with the wind in the first half, they had the lion's share of territory in the opening minutes.

Datchworth fly-half Tom Morton had a drop goal attempt drift just wide before back came the Kiwis to open the scoring and convert the try.

Richie Howells did kick a penalty before half time.

Datchworth, with the wind in their favour in the second period, started on the offensive but great defence made it difficult for the visitors to mount any sustained periods of attack.

The New Zealanders then had the better of the next 20 minutes as they attacked the blindside to good effect and it was only a couple of last-ditch tackles by Andrew Tarsey on the wing that prevented a score.

They did however add a second try. From a lineout five yards out, the ball was caught cleanly and the driving maul set up.

The maul inched its way forward and the converted try was eventually scored.

Datchworth were awarded a penalty for a technical offence in the Kiwis' half which Richie Howells slotted. Another penalty opportunity saw Howells step up and slot the kick from 40 yards out.

With only a score between the sides, Datchworth pressed hard but were unable to get any ball to work with.

This result still means that if Datchworth win their remaining six league games, promotion will be theirs.