Last minute errors cost St Albans Centurions U12s in a 36-24 loss to Brentwood Eels.

Both sides scored outstanding tries, with momentum swung from one side to the other. Tries from Tom Liddelow, Harry Dean and Isaak Nathan ensured that with eight minutes remaining the game hung in the balance, 26-24 in favour of the Eels.

With only two points separating the sides, the heavens opened and it came down to which team would play the most effective and disciplined rugby in the monsoon like conditions.

As it turned out, a series of unforced handling errors with the wet ball from Centurions meant that these critical minutes were played out in the Saints own quarter. Eels, who had played solid rugby throughout the 50 minutes, took full advantage and a succession of well executed plays ensured that they carried the ball over the Saints try line a further two more times before the game ended.

Commenting on the match afterwards head coach Craig Naylor said: “This was a terrific game which was well supported by parents from both teams. We saw some great rugby being played.

“However, the simple fact is if we want to win we cannot have that number of basic errors occurring in the dying stages of such a closely fought match. I’m sure the boys will reflect on this in preparation for their next game.”

The U12s next game is on June 21 at Rutlish Raiders.