Enfield Ignatians coach Emile Hertz was pleased with his side’s performance as they eased into the second round of the Intermediate Cup with a 54-24 victory against Hemel Hempstead.

Last year's beaten London finalists were caught cold in the early stages after falling behind to an early Hemel penalty.

However, Enfield established a lead as Sam Emery and winger Tan Mbonu both crossed the line to score well worked tries.

Hemel continued to battle well and a succession of missed tackles by Ignatians allowed the hosts to score twice in the space of three minutes.

Despite finding themselves again behind, Enfield easserted control to lead 26-17 at the interval following storming efforts from hooker Christo Kasabi and 'flying' winger Dannan O'Meachair.

Following the restart, O'Meachair secured his brace and the power of Mbonu was him cross the line twice to complete his hat-trick, Ignatians were firmly in command and, despite a late consolation for try for Hemel, Wes Warren went over for Ignatians to complete the rout. Jordan Wilson, who was named man-of-the-match, fired over seven of the eight conversions to help Enfield reach their final total.

It turned out to be a comfortable victory for Ignatians and reflecting on the contest, Hertz said: “The spirit in the squad remains very good and it was great see the players enjoy themselves and try new things.

“We made a few changes in order to rest players and because of injuries after the Ipswich game so I have to be pleased.”

Ignatians resume league action on Saturday when they are away to Braintree.

Elsewhere, Ignatians' second team were beaten 53-26 by a strong Hertford Threes side in Herts-Middlesex Merit Table One.

However, Enfield’s Third side continued their impressive form by beating Saracens Amateurs Twos 17-7 in the Herts-Middlesex Merit Table Three clash at Bramley Road.

There was also a win for Ignatians’ fourth string as they overcame a stubborn Eton Manor Threes side 24-12 in a friendly at Donkey Lane.

Meanwhile, Enfield’s Under-15 side got their season off in fine form with a comfortable 73-14 victory against Upper Clapton.

Ignatians ran in a total of 11 tries with Ethan Renny leading the way with four tries and nine conversions.

Jerome Yates, Dillon Adabie, Bledar Ramushi all scored braces and the scoring was rounded off by Nathan Colletta.

The Ignatians' colts had a profitable time in Hertfordshire where they mastered a combined Old Verulamians/Hemel Hempstead side 25-5.

The visitors try scorers were Ryan Browne, Angus Ryan, Conrad Edgar, Delani Green and Paul Duke.