Richmond director of rugby Steve Hill slammed his side’s poor discipline after watching their lead at the top of the National Division Two South table cut to six points.

Tries from on-loan Quins prop Kyle Sinckler and Will Browne gave Richmond a 14-5 lead at second-placed Old Albanians on Saturday, but the hosts hit back for a 20-17 win.

Richmond’s defence had been impressive throughout, but a soft penalty in front of the posts with 17 minutes remaining proved decisive.

And Hill insisted his men must address their disciplinary shortcomings.

“It was frustrating to lose given the amount of positive rugby we played,” he said.

“The way we defended close to our line was tremendous.

“The difference was the number of penalties we conceded and this is an area in which we must improve.”

Hartpury’s defeat at Clifton will make tomorrow’s visit of the latter a tricky test and Hill wants a response.

“Our game against Clifton will be just as tough a test. How we respond will indicate how much steel this squad contains,” he added.