London Scottish fell to local rivals in the penultimate round of the season as Richmond closed out an incredibly tight game to come away winners before the two sides lock horns again in a fortnight’s time in the first round of the relegation play offs.

The day started perfectly for Scottish, controlling proceedings and working their way down into the 22. Throwing all their backs into a driving maul, Harry Clayton flopped over the line for an opening score which put Scottish on the front foot.

Things got even better just minutes later as Seb Driscoll, poached the ball at the bottom of the ruck, set Hayden Hyde free down the left wing and he streaked away for an 80m score. Scottish 12-0 and looking comfortable.

However, that’s when the game turned, Richmond’s scrum got on top and Scottish faltered. Letting their opponents back into the game. This resulted in Richmond scoring before the break from short range to cut the deficit.

After the half time oranges, Richmond hit back again to draw the scores level. However, Murray Bellis would dive in the corner just minutes later for Scottish to retake the lead.

That would be the last time Scottish got on the scoreboard however. Richmond dominated the final quarter of the game, keeping Scottish pinned in their own 22 and coming way with the two crucial scores to win the game.

It was a serious marker laid down by Richmond as they got revenge for their defeat in January. However, Scottish will have the chance to right the wrongs in a fortnight’s time when the two side’s lock horns again in a match with much higher stakes.