Uxbridge second string into the quarters

RUGBY UNION

A STORMING second half saw Uxbridge seconds book their place in the quarter-finals of the Middlesex Merit Cup at the expense of neighbours Ealing Amateurs on Saturday.

Tries by Nick Guy and Nick Dennis helped overturn a 10-0 half-time deficit into a 12-10 victory and an appointment with Pinner early in the New Year.

The hosts were soon behind to a try fashioned by Ealing’s bigger pack and chances to overturn the deficit were then spurned as Guy missed two presentable penalty opportunities. These looked expensive misses when the visitors capitalised on some frail defence to score a second try.

Ealing started the second half strongly too, but Uxbridge’s defence resisted and were on the board when Guy’s cheeky chip kick bounced over the full-back and stayed in play for him to collect and sprint for the line.

The conversion saw them just three points in arrears and the comeback was completed when Dennis went over with 10 minutes left to complete a flowing move.

Ealing spurned two chances to snatch victory, dropping the ball with the line in sight and missing a last-gasp kick before the final whistle brought relief.

The first XV were without a game as they were already out of the Junior Vase and return to Herts/Middx Two action on Saturday at home to West London.

Other action in this league will see leaders face struggling Quinton and visit Chess Valley. Old Merchant Taylors’ conceded their Intermediate Cup first round tie at Saffron Walden and will return to London Two North West action at home to Old Haberdashers on Saturday.

Meanwhile, in London One North, Ruislip’s early season struggles continued as they were thrashed 34-7 at home by Chingford.

Life is not about to get easier either as Saturday sees them visit unbeaten league leaders Eton Manor.