The true challenge of National League rugby was brought home to Gravesend by well-drilled opponents Hertford on Saturday.

After last week’s opening day win in National 3 South East, Gs were given a lesson in possession as they lost 50-7.

Gravesend never let their heads drop, and were constantly looking for the breakthrough, only to see the ball go loose.

Richardson gave Hertford the lead with a well-struck penalty and they added three tries before the end of the first quarter, by the locks, South and Johnson, and No 8 Hardcastle, all converted by Richardson.

Gs were winning many of their own set pieces, with Gary Gray and Ashley Moorey taking the game forward, only to be thwarted by the Hertford centres.

Richardson touched down for the final score of the half and on 50 minutes Storey outpaced the defence to score, Richardson adding the extras for 36-0.

There was a brief sight of what might have been for Gs if more of their hard-won ball had stayed in hand, when Harman crossed on 58 minutes, and Gary Gray converted.

Gs stayed positive, turning down penalty kicking chances to go for the five metre line-out.

But a brace of tries for flanker Wilson, both converted by Richardson, saw the visitors add a further 14 points.