Stevenage Town 52

Hendon 24

Despite a spirited second half fight-back and some fine rugby, Hendon look doomed to relegation after this defeat.

Once again their defensive pattern was up in the air early on, with missed tackles from the back row and three-quarters allowing Stevenage to build a sizeable first half lead.

And yet again John Ryan's men showed they have the ability to do so much better with some stunning pieces of play in the second half.

If only they could play like that for 80 minutes, Hendon would be a long way from the predicament they now face.

Two tries down inside 15 minutes, winger Michael Beard hit back for Hendon with an interception inside his own 22 and run to the line, Paul Charlton converting to make it 14-7.

A penalty after good work from the pack put Hendon well in contention at 14-10, but Stevenage proceeded to run in three tries, to lead 38-10 at the interval.

Hendon hit back after the break, Mickey Harber putting Ryan in from a short penalty and Charlton converting.

Stevenage extended their lead to 52-17, but Hendon kept on attacking and were rewarded with the try of the match, Beard and Ryan sending in winger Damian Morris under the posts, with Charlton again converting.

But for all their efforts, Hendon look doomed to relegation with three games left to play.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000.Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.