Hornets scored a late try through Sean Kent to secure a narrow victory over visitors Barton Hill.

HORNETS welcomed Barton Hill to Hutton Moor, a team that had been buoyed by their surprise win against league leaders Chard the previous week.

The first opportunity coming to the visitors, who kicked a penalty for a three point lead following an infringement in the forwards. The lead was short lived though as Sam Lloyd-Jones drew level with the boot from a similar penalty.

Hornets now managed to gain the upper hand and this lead to the first try scoring chance of the game as Chris Disney crashed through the defence to touch down. The conversion was missed, but the try was just reward for the teams efforts.

Barton Hill upped the tempo, but strong defence from the home side kept them out and they only came away with a further penalty to bring the score to 8-6 at half-time.

Having lost Matt Cornish through injury five minutes before the break and forced into reshuffling the back line, Hornets knew that things were going to get tougher in the second period.

This was emphasised early in the half when Barton Hill crossed the whitewash for a try, taking the lead in the process. Fortunately for the hosts the conversion was missed but they were now in a dog fight.

With Hornets’ fourth spot in the league at risk if they lost, everything was thrown at the visitors in an effort to retake the lead, but Barton Hill stood strong and cleared their lines before mounting counter attacks.

Much of the second half continued in this vein and made for edge of the seat viewing from the side lines, but also some nervy moments whenever the guests came within striking distance.

However, things were to turn out in Hornets’ favour, though it took until five minutes from the end for them to get the points. Following good work from the forwards, Sean Kent was driven over from close range and with Lloyd-Jones adding the extras Hornets were four points up. A lead they held to the final whistle to claim the points and strengthen their position.

On Saturday, Hornets travel to Bristol to take on Harlequins, kick-off is at 2.30pm and with Harlequins currently in 10th position, they have everything to play for.