St Albans RFC ran runaway London 2 North West leaders Harrow mighty close in a 24-18 home defeat on Saturday.

The imperious table-toppers flew out of the blocks, slicing through the host’s defence like a knife through butter, taking a fourth minute lead from a fluid team move.

Mark Kentish’s penalty made it 7-3 but despite the quagmire conditions, the irrepressible Harrow were exhibiting some superb running rugby and increased their lead to 14-3 with a sumptuous finish.

The Saints’, who had the upper hand in the pack, brilliantly won a scrum against the head and the ball squirted out for flanker Ross Taylor who bounded over for an unconverted try.

Undaunted, Harrow continued their free-flowing style and, after a barrage of swift attacks, their winger touched down to make it 21-8.

Belying their lowly league position, St Albans were giving Harrow all sorts of problems and when prop Fraser Morris galloped 50m for a converted try, Harrow looked nervy.

A penalty apiece from both sides brought the scores to 24-18 but the plucky hosts came up just short in an encouraging performance which will give them confidence for next week’s match against Old Haberdashers.