There were two conflicting results for Datchworth and Welwyn rugby clubs in Counties One Herts Middlesex but both had a potentially huge impact on their final finishing position.

Welwyn had the expected tough day at the office against high-flying Hemel Hempstead, going 41-5 at Hobbs Way.

The visitors had come into the game sitting second in the table, two points behind leaders Grasshoppers but with a game in hand.

And after both claimed a bonus-point success, Hoppers winning 43-12 at Hampstead, it is as you were.

For Welwyn, they are still sixth but there is now a virtually insurmountable 16-point gap to Hitchin in front of them.

Ruislip, their next opponents, are three points behind but have played a game more.

It was a much-changed Welwyn side that took on the promotion favourites and the home side, try as they might, were unable to stop the juggernaut.

Welwyn conceded three tries in each half and the excellent Jamie Horne kept the scoreboard operator busy with four conversions and a penalty.

Welwyn were rewarded with the last try of the game though, Ryan Saunders crashing over from close range, and one of the few positives that could be taken from the loss was the performance of powerful left winger Alex Omole.

He looked dangerous every time he got the ball and was only denied a try late in the match by an earlier infringement.

Datchworth, however, had a great day out as they won 25-20 away to Enfield Ignatians.

The match was between the sides second and third from bottom of the pile and in danger of relegation.

The Men in Green got the success though, their second on the bounce, and now have a 10-point cushion back to Enfield who have just three games remaining to Datchworth's four.

The village side are on the road this weekend too, playing on Friday evening under the lights at Hitchin.

Kick-off at Old Hale Way is at 7.30pm.