In a PSUK opener which marked the sad anniversary of Met officer Matt Ratana’s murder, the Met just failed to sneak home with a victory.
Following a poignant minute to remember the Croydon Sergeant, shot dead four years ago, the now annual clash between the two Police teams was a fitting tribute. The Met took an early lead through a Sam Druce penalty but were soon struggling to contain a powerful, well drilled, team who were making full use of their home advantage. Powerful first phase play and crisp handling established the hosts’ superiority and although the the Met once again showed their valiant resilience, they were never able to recover from the first half onslaught.
The narrow margin of defeat against a Welsh team who were far more acquainted with each other, yet again demonstrated what the Met could achieve if only the squad could train together on a regular basis. Rather than leaving their game plan on the bus, as is the old adage, the Met discovered theirs in the heartland of Welsh rugby.
The Met entertain South Wales Police in four weeks time, a match they must win to give themselves any hope of progressing to the knock-out rounds.