LONDON WELSH have been cleared of any wrongdoing in controversially postponing their original EDF Energy Cup tie with Cambridge.

Both Cambridge and Esher, who Welsh would have been playing last weekend if not for the rearranged cup tie, kicked up a fuss over the postponement.

They were annoyed that a ladies' international was played on the Old Deer Park pitch the day after Welsh declared it unplayable.

But Welsh have been cleared, despite being found guilty of not following proper postponement procedures.

They did, however, have to pay Cambridge's travel costs for the rear-ranged game, which Welsh won 23-22 on Sunday.

AN RFU spokesman said: "The organising committee of the EDF Energy National Trophy has found that London Welsh did not comply with game regulations in postponing the fifth round tie against Cambridge due to be held on February 8.

"The committee believes London Welsh acted in good faith given the health and safety concerns, weather forecast and a desire to minimise disruption for spectators.

"But the club failed to comply with Game Regulation 18 in that they did not request a pitch inspection on the day preceding the match.

"London Welsh will pay 100 per cent of Cambridge's costs for travel to the rearranged tie on Saturday, February 14.

"If they breach Game Regulation 18 in the EDF Energy National Trophy again this season, the committee reserves the right to impose a further sanction that may include disqualification."

Meanwhile, head coach Danny Wilson has warned his London Welsh troops they face a thrashing on Saturday if they approach Exeter the same way they did Cambridge.

Welsh just avoided an upset as they laboured to victory over the National Two side.

But boss Wilson had made clear Exeter, who would top National One if not for runaway leaders Leeds, will punish their mistakes more clinically.

He said: "Our first-half performance showed we were impatient - we didn't go through five, six or seven phases to try and score as we usually would.

"We tried to force the game off the second and third phase, and that played in to their hands.

"We're disappointed with our defence but relieved to have come away from what could have been a potential banana skin with a win.

"We are a side that seems to be able to raise its game for the bigger occasions - against sides such as Leeds and Exeter.

"Exeter on Saturday will be a big occasion, and our boys will be working hard to raise their game.

"If we try and force the game against Exeter we know we'll be looking down the barrel of a heavy defeat - we've got to be more professional and clinical."

Mark Harris kicked the winning penalty six minutes from time to cap a superb display for Welsh, which included a stunning solo 40 metre try.

His personal tally of 18, plus a Paul Sampson try, was just enough for the Exiles.