Former Harlequins centre Mel Deane got his 2010 off to the worst possible start when he broke his hand having come out of retirement for Richmond’s 24-16 defeat to league leaders Ealing.

A crippling injury list forced director of rugby Geoff Richards to call on the Irishman for the first time since he ended his playing career at Connacht to become fitness coach at the Athletic Ground.

Deane, who went under the knife this week to repair the problem, hadn’t planned to pull on his boots again - despite being registered to play for the club at the start of the season.

And Richards admitted the latest injury was a reflection of the luck his struggling squad has had this season in National Division Two South.

“We’ve had so many injuries and illnesses it seemed a bit silly not to use his experience as he is still a fine player,” he said.

“We’ve been really unlucky this year, more than any other than I can remember, and this is just another problem we’ll have to deal with.”

Deane’s exit on 30 minutes came with his side leading 8-7 and his departure would see his side conceded the second of two soft tries that left them trailing 12-8 at the break.

Matt Hart’s early second-half penalty got his side back in touch, but the hosts responded to ensure Jonny Wehbe’s late try was in vain.

“We’re playing well at the moment. We’ve put in too good performances against the top two sides. We felt we should have got a bonus point,” added Richards.

“Once we start playing the rugby we have shown we are capable of on a regular basis I’m sure we’ll climb the table.

“The bad weather doesn’t help, but we need to build on the momentum we have started to generate.”

Richmond’s next three fixtures: Jan 9 Bridgwater & Albion (h), 16 Rosslyn Park (a), 23 Henley (h).