St Albans failed to build on last week’s derby win over Harpenden as they were thoroughly beaten by Hampstead in London Two North West.

The Saints moved within three points of Old Merchant Taylors’ after last week but they were unable to leapfrog them, and in turn escape the relegation zone, by putting together back-to-back wins.

It was Hampstead’s second half surge that settled the result after an even opening 40 minutes. In fact, St Albans led 8-6 at the break after Nick Hegarty scored his first try for the club.

The Saints came out fired up for the second half and pinned Hampstead deep in their own territory. Pressure on the hosts’ scrum saw St Albans march over the try line to increase their lead to 13-6.

The good work ended there. St Albans seemed to lose all their composure and authority, allowing Hampstead back into the game. The hosts took full advantage to run in five unanswered tries and win 39-13.

St Albans’ schedule doesn’t get any easier with a visit from league leaders Harrow to Bogggymead on Saturday, February 21.