Worthing's inconsistent form resurfaced as their dreams of reaching Twickenham were ended by holders Hertford in the third round of the Powergen Intermediate Cup.

Having lost to the same opposition just two weeks before, Worthing knew they needed to produce a big performance and were almost given the perfect start when Raynn Bruce squandered a golden try-scoring opportunity by trying to go along when he had a two-man overlap.

Despite being under intense pressure in the early exchanges the home side did take the when John Firkin kicked a long-range penalty but from the restart Hertford took the game by the scruff of the neck.

A mix-up allowed the Hertford to secure possession deep in the home team's half and quick recycling of the ball saw winger Neil Barella score in the corner. Barella then converted to give the away team a four-point lead.

Almost immediatley Worthing found themselves further behind when they were caught on the counter attack and Richard Justice scored in the right hand corner. Although Barella missed the conversion he added a penalty before half time to give the visitors a 15-3 lead.

Worthing started the second half with a bang and good recycling by the forwards allowed Firkin to pass wide for Mark Adams to beat three defenders and score wide in the left hand corner.

But instead of waking the home side from their lethargy Worthing went back to sleep and Hertford made them pay when another Barella penalty and a try from hooker Harris put them out of sight.

Firkin and Barella traded penalties in the closing stages as Worthing went down 11-23.

Burgess Hill returned to winning ways in Sussex One with a 7-5 victory over visitors Pulborough.

Dave Webb's try, which was converted by Jon Maple, proved decisive.