Hornets come off second best in clash with Exeter University

Hornets welcomed Exeter University to the Nest for the last home National League 2 West match of the season, and it was Exeter who came out on top in a high-tempo game.

Being able to draw on their vast reserves from their player pool, Exeter showed that they could play better than their league position would suggest, as they are in a relegation battle with the other university team, Loughborough.

At least one of these teams, and possibly both, could get relegated and are fighting for their survival.

It didn't start well for Hornets as the visitors started at pace, caught the hosts off guard, and rattled to a 19-point lead after only 11 minutes.

Hornets, through their No. 8 Corey Baker, got one back to settle the ship, and a conversion by Jack Gapper made it 7-19.

Both sides then had a player sent to the bin, but it was Exeter who dealt with it better, as hooker Alex Osborne got his hat-trick try.

Half time score was 7-24.

Exeter continued the second half as they finished the first, and asserted pressure and were rewarded with another try. 7-31.

Hornets, in the last throes of the game, managed to get a foothold and duly scored some tries to at least get a try bonus point through Mua Inoke and two more to the fantastic No. 8 Corey Baker to get his own personal hat-trick.

Final score: Hornets 24, Exeter University 36.

Hornets now look forward to finishing the season away at Hinkley on Saturday, bringing the curtain down on the season, which has proved to be another hugely successful one.

Hornets currently sit in 5th spot in the National League and look forward to another season at level 4 next year.