WESTCLIFF could not put together more than a few minutes of their open rugby style as Hertford eased to a 28-14 victory.

But it was certainly not for want of trying that Westcliff did not get more points.

And several times they were up to the Hertford line without scoring. Hertford drew first blood with a penalty but this was quickly cancelled out by one from Ben McKeith.

The visitors then upped the power and the Westcliff defence was hard pressed for a time but excellent tackling kept the Hertford out.

However, Hertford then forced a line out near the Westcliff line, took the ball and forced their way over.

The conversion attempt hit the post, but they still led 8-3. Westcliff came back hard and McKeith soon added another penalty.

But Hertford then rode their luck when Westcliff failed to control a loose ball and they got through for a try which was converted to make it 15-6.

Hertford now had their tails up and forced Westcliff into an error which saw their kicker land a penalty from 40 metres out.

However, McKeith landed his third penalty to cut Hertford’s lead to 19-8 at the break. Westcliff started the second half full of fire and gave heart to their supporters.

Once more it was Hertford’s turn to defend and they clung on to keep their line clear, went upfield and worked another try which went unconverted as did another one to make it 28-9.

Westcliff started again and at last one of their forward efforts brought a reward with Jack Smith going over for the try.

The conversion attempt was off target and Hertford were in no mood to let their lead slip and they kept all further Westcliff attacks in check to send the hosts to third from bottom in the table.