National League Division 2: In a splendid example of running rugby, Esher and Henley fought out a thrilling 26-26 draw to share the points.

With the referee awarding only eight penalties throughout, one octogenarian spectator told Hawks' coach Nigel Dudding afterwards that it was the finest game of rugby he had ever seen.

Henley will feel miffed, for after recovering from a 19-7 deficit at half-time to lead 26-19 with 15 minutes left, they should have done enough to win.

Esher's first-half advantage came from tries by their Oxford University scrum half Graham Barr, centre Dan Wassell and right wing Nash Shumba, with John Gregory adding two conversions.

Henley's reply came from Nnamdi Obi, who scored his tenth try of the season. Reeves added the conversion.

The league leaders changed their tactics from the restart, the forwards picking up and driving up the middle of the park, with Nick Martin and Ali Mortimore leading the way.

This brought two tries for skipper Jeff Atkinson, and others by winger Pete Davies and centre Russell Osman. Reeves added two conversions for a 26-19 lead.

Esher reponded with centre Jan Bonney scoring in the corner, and Gregory converted with a fine kick to tie the scores.