It was disappointment for the Hornets, who were taught a lesson by the students of Loughborough University in the National 2 West League.

The home team, having won their previous two games at the Nest, faced a tough challenge from the table-toppers, who were unbeaten and in good form.

The speedy, attacking university side initially struggled to penetrate the Hornets' solid defence.

However, a penalty kick to the corner led to a well-executed catch and drive, giving the visitors their first try.

After the restart, the Hornets enjoyed some good possession, with their stronger forwards putting the students under pressure.

Despite a series of attacks and being camped on Loughborough's line, the Hornets were kept at bay by determined defence.

An opportunity was lost when Chris Francis attempted to dive for the line, but the ball spilled, allowing Loughborough to clear.

A scrum on halfway led to Loughborough's winger scoring an excellent try, which was converted, putting the visitors in a comfortable position at 12-0.

Hornets began to find their footing when a loose Loughborough lineout was turned into a surge by Sam Scott, resulting in a penalty.

Jaime Elswood converted the penalty, putting the Hornets on the scoreboard at 3-12.

Another turnover from a Loughborough lineout set up an attack, with Hornets spinning the ball wide to winger Josh Sheppard, who scored in the corner.

With three minutes left in the half, the Hornets had a chance to close the gap further, but a clearance kick found Loughborough's back three, who scored at pace.

This sequence was repeated, and in a flash, Loughborough had a significant lead at half-time, 24-8.

The first 15 minutes after the break saw Hornets regain some form.

After a penalty kick to the corner, a well-worked lineout and pick-and-drive led to Corey Baker scoring, converted by Luke McMullan, narrowing the gap to 24-15.

With Hornets now in the ascendancy, Loughborough's back division scored again from a distance, stretching their lead to 29-15.

With Loughborough's defensive line on the edge of being offside all day, McMullan chipped over the rush defence.

Sheppard collected the kick, and after being stopped just short, Connor Vickery received a pop pass to score.

With six minutes left, the Hornets were close again at 29-20.

Chasing not only the bonus-point try but a losing bonus point, Loughborough snuffed out the Hornets' efforts with a sweeping attack, securing the game with a final try.

The match concluded with a score of Hornets 20, Loughborough University 32.

The disappointed hosts had chances to score but were let down by a final pass or a dropped ball.

Hornets will have another opportunity next week at home against struggling Hinckley, who are just below them in the league.