Two Matthew Muirhead tries set up Royston’s first Herts/Middlesex 1 win of the season with victory on Saturday.

The home side defended resiliently despite the winds and carried with intent, stringing together sequences of direct, close-knit phases. However, lack of field position eventually left Royston exposed, when a line-out caught the breeze and was snatched by an opposition pack member who crashed over from yards out.

This inability to maintain territory saw Streetonians capitalise on Royston infringements, kicking two penalties and a further drop goal.

Royston responded, banking a rare opportunity in opposition territory, with Jon Brain finishing a plethora of pick-and-goes to score. Will Dacey converted.

Switching sides provided Royston further relief and powerful ball carrying from the pack coupled with shrewd box-kicking from Adam Smith allowed Royston to play in the right area of the field.

In the reverse of Streetonian’s only try, Matthew Muirhead poached a greasy line-out against the head and touched down.

He then secured a quick second, which was converted by Dacey, gracefully falling on the ball as the ferocious Royston scrum drove over the line.

Trailing into the last 15 minutes, Streetonians defied the conditions and played the most expansive football of the day, testing Royston’s unrelenting defence but a number of try- saving tackles, particularly from previously dormant backs secured the morale-boosting win.