Verulamians claimed a 31-19 home win over Welwyn in their friendly game.

With Vees' injured skipper Sam Richmond still watching from the touchline this match again gave him the opportunity to blood some new players.

This proved very successful as the talented XV provided the crowd with an entertaining game in which Joe Baker ran in three storming tries from his number eight position from 40 metres out.

Experienced fly-half Simon McCulloch produced a determined display and took advantage of the necessary conversions and penalties for Vees.

Welwyn were always alert to pounce on any midfield errors offered by the home side, who mysteriously continued to deny their effective wingers with sufficient ball.

Verulamians return to their league programme on Saturday with an away match at Old Millhillians RFC as they hope to renew their quest to maintain their improving record towards the top end of the Herts/Middlesex One table.