The unpredictable, often baffling but seldom dull season for Streatham–Croydon continued apace at Frant Road on Saturday as they beat Merton 29-11, writes Ben Alsop.

To even the most charitable observer the first half was a turgid, messy affair in which the odd flash of direction and composure shone like a beacon amidst the constant drizzle.

It began terribly for the home side, conceding a try within the first three minutes of the game. Immediately from the kick off confusion reigned and the resulting scrum from a Streatham knock on led to persistent pressure on a defence that eventually buckled to allow a simple away try.

A Merton penalty minutes later meant that the visitors enjoyed an 8-0 advantage even before a number of supporters had ventured from the relative comfort of the club bar.

This seemingly immediate deficit did at least force Streatham to venture out from their self imposed stupor.

Penalties and territory were exchanged between the two sides who struggled to conquer the wet conditions from both above and below.

Amongst the slips and mistakes it was the quick hands of flanker Tim Riley who ensured Streatham went into the break on level terms, taking and giving a pass which allowed James Park to cross in the corner.

The second half for Streatham was as dominant and direct as the first had been scatter-gun and fruitless with the home pack exerting pressure both in the tight and loose.

Of particular pride to coach Bob Dean were a number of driving mauls from line outs in the Merton half which seemed destined to leave the playing field altogether and rumble their way up Frant Road and beyond.

In difficult conditions it is often the goal kicker that can be the difference between success and ignominy and so it was the boot of Park proved itself vital all afternoon.

It’s surety alleviated pressure on the Streatham pack as well as kept the scoreboard moving inexorably away from the visiting side.

Late tries from the towering James Batty and top try scorer Aaron Brown meant that Streatham eventually opened up a comfortable lead over their opponents, one which they were not about to relinquish.