Ealing 17 Barnet SEs 14

London League Division Three (North-West)

In a superb advert for London rugby, Barnet Saracens Elizabethans could not quite hold out in the face of a tremendous second-half siege by Ealing.

BSE had established a 14-0 lead after 55 minutes, but at the cost of losing scrum-half Tucker, who landed awkwardly in a tackle.

They were able to switch last year's captain Glenister from fly-half, which was a boost, but somehow the momentum was lost.

It also coincided with a strong fightback by Ealing, though realistically a draw would have been fairer.

Glenister put Barnet ahead with a penalty, and five minutes later an excellent move, begun by Hart with a superb pass, culminated in Tucker going over for a fine try.

Barnet were rampant with their forwards turning over possession in the set and loose play, the backs running deep into Ealing's territory and Glenister gaining yards with his tactical kicks.

This dominance continued in the second half, with Glenister kicking two penalty goals. However, minutes before the second kick, Tucker went off.

Ealing punished the visitors with a try, easily converted. A further penalty reduced the deficit and Ealing suddenly sensed victory.

Ealing's crucial try came when Barnet only just cleared their lines and from the resulting lineout, Ealing's pack drove over.

Barnet will be out to make amends in Saturday's home game with Harpenden.

November 14, 2001 18:06