Luton Rugby lose out against Chingford

After controlling most of the first half Luton looked comfortable and their forwards worked well, dominating possession and holding firm in defence.

They moved 8-3 in front at the interval thanks to Brandon Lewsey’s try and Rik Hobbs’ penalty, but the second period started badly with a quick converted score for Chingford.

An off-the-ball scuffle resulted in a yellow card each for Luton and Chingford but, when Nelly returned to the field, he was penalised again for a late tackle and received a second yellow, ending his afternoon.

The red card took the sting out of Luton’s performance allowing Chingford to gain control and move in front with a try.

Luton hit back to trail 17-13 as Steve Ellis went over, and the visitors had several scrums close to the line in the closing stages. Unfortunately, they were held up on two occasions before they ran a penalty and the ball was knocked on, ending the game.

Luton’s director of rugby Paul Allen felt his side paid the price for taking the wrong options with a knock-on at the end, as he said: “Too often we are making poor decisions at crucial times, but that all comes from young players still learning their trade.

“This league is still very open and we are still looking to push towards the top of the table, but we all know what a tough challenge that is.”

This Saturday Luton host Romford & Gidea Park.