Rosslyn Park closed two points on league leaders Ealing Trailfinders, despite failing to land the four-try bonus point at Old Albanian last Saturday.

Ealing surprisingly lost to relegation-threatened Cinderford to throw the title race wide open, while Park won 19-10 on the road.

Park head coach Alex Codling decided to give a start at scrum half to Alex Davies – on loan from London Welsh – so when fly half Scott Sneddon called in ill, Park were left with a new half back partnership.

Tom Whelan took over the number 10 shirt, returning after a nagging injury.

But a fitful Park performance could not be laid at the door of the half-backs.

There were just too many errors in execution having established good field position.

However, Park still managed to record an away win against fired-up opposition despite a poor day by the standards they set themselves.

Pictures and words from Rosslyn Park v Old Albanian

Codling said: “Our performance in the first half lacked intensity and accuracy, but credit to players who came out and controlled the second 40 minutes.

“This Saturday, we face a huge physical challenge in the form of Blaydon so it will be key that we have the right intensity from the off."

Park won a tight match at Blaydon by 38-29 earlier in the season, but the Tyneside club are as good as anyone on their day.

Park will be hoping to have Will Bowley, skipper Hugo Ellis and Scott Sneddon – none of whom played at Old Albanian – fit for Saturday’s match.

With the title race now open again, Park cannot afford to settle for less than the full five points.

Supporters should note that Saturday’s kick off is at 2.30 rather then 3pm, to assist Blaydon with their travel arrangements.