Former captain Rob Wyer played his final home game for Enfield Ignatians in their 29-12 defeat to HAC at Donkey Lane on Saturday.

The 6ft 4in second row has spent 18 seasons with the club but is bringing his time with Ignatians to an end.

Wyer said: “I’ve had to step down a little earlier than planned but family and work commitments have dictated otherwise.

“Originally, I had planned to see the whole season out but my wife Laura is expecting our second child in April, and it only seems fair that I dedicate the time to my family.”

He boasts Middlesex B honours and is Ignatians’ most capped second row at level seven.

Wyer said: “Ever since I joined the club, I’ve always wanted to captain the first team. I made my first team debut in 1997 and captained the team from 2005 to 2010. It’s been very enjoyable and the club has been a huge chunk of my life.

“I’ve had many happy memories and not least the Middlesex Cup final when Ignatians were runners up to the Civil Service in 2008. The build-up to the final was very frenetic as I had to travel to Las Vegas to attend my sister’s wedding, and only got back the day before.”

The forward has not ruled out a return to action in the future on an occasional basis.

He said: “After this season, it will be no more first team rugby. I will probably take a bit of a break as the commitment has been pretty full-on, but I haven’t excluded making the odd appearance at second or third team level.”

Ignatians’ first team struggled to get to grips with the all-round pace of the Honourable Artillery Company in London Two North-West during the 29-12 defeat.

However, they did manufacture a try in each half via Wes Warren and Matt Georgiou – the latter converted by Jake Bates – and it was an improved effort compared to the last time the sides met.

Ignatians Seconds continued their rich vein of form after taking the scalp of Welwyn Seconds 19-12 in Herts-Middlesex Merit Table Two.

Tries by Caolan Davey, Seyi Adeosun and Frank Antwi, and two conversions from the boot of Paul Duke, secured the win.

Ignatians Thirds’ promotion hopes from Herts-Middlesex Merit Table Five took a knock following a disappointing 35-5 loss to visiting Old Grammarians.

James Rawlinson scored the blue and golds’ try late in the first half.