For the second week running Hitchin travelled to North London to take on one of the top three teams in the league. The visitors flattered to deceive, with the pack more than holding its own, but with attack after attack finishing with poor handing or lack

For the second week running Hitchin travelled to North London to take on one of the top three teams in the league.

The visitors flattered to deceive, with the pack more than holding its own, but with attack after attack finishing with poor handing or lack of ball retention it allowed Haringey to repeatedly lead counter charges up the field.

With Hitchin keeping up the pressure after the early exchanges a penalty was awarded.

Jack Peachey's effort hit the goal post, but as Hitchin players failed to follow up and snatch a try, they allowed a Haringey player to pick up, break through to the 22-metre line and set his backs off to run the length of the field to score in the corner for a converted try.

It was a bitter blow for the visitors and it was essential they didn't let their heads drop.

Hitchin came back but attacking the home side's line Hitchin's No.8 Nick Panton was forced to leave the field with a dislocated thumb to be replaced by Ryan Arbon.

Minutes later the promising Ben Phaiasi received a neck injury, to be replaced by Rob Vivian just before half time.

With Haringey now playing down the slight slope, they broke out of their 22-metre area to kick to the corner.

The visitors set up a maul and crossed the Hitchin line for an unconverted try.

A penalty increased Haringey's lead to 15-0 before Hitchin again made ground to get into the opposition half and Rob Vivian was successful with a penalty attempt.

Ed Bellamy was credited with the touchdown as the Hitchin pack powered their way over the line to bring the score back to 15-8.

Tom Joyce replaced the injured Joe Benucci, but hopes of a recovery were dashed when Haringey again were allowed to escape from their line to launch a counter attack and find touch five metres from the Hitchin line.

An infringement at the resulting lineout gave the visitors a scrum, but the clearance kick failed to find touch and Haringey launched a backs move to cross the line and bring the closing score to 22-8.