Despite a much-improved performance, Barnet Elizabethans went down 18-12 to London Three North West League leaders Old Priorians.

Barnet started strongly and went ahead inside ten minutes when a clever kick by scrum-half Ed Maclennan found left winger Glyn Bayley, who raced in for a try. Jonny Hart converted the extras.

Elizabethans continued to attack and they pushed forward through strong runs by Peter Moulton, Matt Nicholas, Ricky Stevens and Gareth Chapman.

However, midway through the half, Priorians collected a loose ball and quickly countered to score. Hart missed with a penalty attempt before the table toppers scored their second try against the run of play to go in 10-7 ahead at the break.

Elizabethans came back strongly in the second period and a lineout catch and drive saw Matt Greenwood force his way over.

The game was evenly poised but the visitors squeezed through for another try, while Barnet dug deep to score again.

However, it didn’t prove to be enough and Old Priorians took victory.

Barnet are away to Finchley at Summers Lane on Saturday.