Hammers 3s unlucky against strong London New Zealand
The Hammers headed to London Zealand for an important top of the table clash which could be crucial in deciding the table come the end of the year.
A strong start by the Kiwis and some lack of discipline from the Hammers meant we were soon pinned in our own 22, and after a strong drive off a scrum they were soon over in the corner. Hammersmith responded well and quick ball provided by the forwards, Adam Crompton found a gap in the midfield to score. Despite this solid response, Kiwis made a break down the left to score again, things got worse as Sam Nursey was sent to the bin for a high tackle
Despite being a man down, excellent possession and phase play meant that Hammers kept up the pressure. Quick rucks sucking the defenders and nice hands to spin the ball wide, space opened up for Adam to run in for his second try of game. With Simon ‘Tyson Fury’ Irwin back on the pitch despite being carried off 10 minutes earlier and strong attacking play out wide momentum was with Hammers going into half time
Half Time: London Kiwis 14 – Hammersmith 12
The second half started strongly with both teams playing some good stuff, including number 8 Jacob Lloyd channeling his inner fly-half getting involved with the backs moves meant the Hammers were on the front foot. However, some typical Kiwi offloads and strong running from the number 8 meant London Zealand soon scored to get back in front. The next 10 minutes were pretty tough as LNZ span the ball wide exceptionally well and scored two quickfire tries to take a commanding lead
Hammers never give up though and still we toiled away, eventually with winger Will barging through a couple of tackles to score in the corner, and then Chris Ralph showing his usual speed and step to cross. However it was not to be as the clock went red with Hammers still trailing, but the hard graft at end made sure to secure 2 bonus points meaning its still all to play for at the top of the table
Final Score: London Kiwis 32 – 24 Hammersmith
Motm: Adam Crompton
Dotd: Sam Nursey