Verulamians squandered a half-time lead as they lost 15-12 at Old Millhillians on Saturday in a tight encounter. 

Playing against the wind in the first half Vees had territorial possession and within ten minutes saw Tom Crowne muscle his way over after a strong scrum drive for an unconverted try.

Vees stayed camped in the opposition half and and just prior to half time put Joe Baker away on one of his many rampaging runs to score under the posts. Gareth Walters duly converted to give what appeared a comfortable lead of 12-0 at the break.

Unlike previous weeks Vees came out in the second half all guns blazing and virtually ran the whole length of the field only to be denied a sensational try through a mishap in front of the posts. Had they scored, this would have put the game beyond doubt.

However this helped the plucky Millhillians pack to nibble their way back up the field with controlled rugby and with ten minutes of total domination they scored under Vees' posts only to see their kicker have the conversion miraculously charged down.

The hosts continued to exert constant pressure and after ten minutes of resolute Vees defence broke through and levelled the score.

The home side kept the pressure on and gained a penalty which proved crucial in handing them victory.

Vees then sparked into life in the dying minutes and missed three golden opportunities to rescue the match. 

Verulamians will hope to be on the money this weekend when they host the Bank of England. 

Vees seconds played their first ever game against Berkhamsted and narrowly won 20-19.