ESSEX Spartans made it back-to-back victories with a 36-8 home victory against British American Football’s newest team, the London Hornets.

On a windy but dry day in Billericay, both teams attempted few long passes, instead relying heavily on their run game.

This suited the Spartans, who had already scored nine rushing touchdowns in two games this season, and it was no surprise when Tom Woods and Zach Davies both scored their second touchdowns of the season in the first half, for a 12-0 half time lead.

Davies’ run of 81 yards was the longest play from scrimmage for the Spartans so far this season.

The Spartans stepped up a gear in the second half and the Hornets were unable to live with their hosts.

John Tottman returned two punts for touchdowns, either side of Norris Owusu’s second punt return touchdown of the season.

Billy Swick completed the scoring with a fumble recovery returned for a touchdown for the second straight game.

Head coach Sean Benton said: “Three games into the season and I am pleased with the start we have made.

“We have scored 19 touchdowns and conceded just four.

“Our next opponents are local rivals the Kent Exiles, who made the play-offs last season.

“It promises to be a tough game but after this win we will take a confident and focused team across the Thames.”

The Spartans junior team, for players aged 16 to 19, made a long awaited return to competitive action against South London Renegades.

Despite falling to a 54-12 defeat to more experienced opponents, there were promising signs for the future as the team battled hard and scored two good second half touchdowns.