Diss 36 : 7 Epping Upper Clapton - 11th February 2017

Diss maintained top spot in London Two North East with an ultimately comfortable and determined victory against a determined and fully committed Upper Clapton side who certainly proved up for the challenge against the League leaders.

Immediately from the kick off, Diss opened their account when John Laurie broke through the visitors scrambling defence to send Sean McClure over to draw first blood for the home side. McClure converted establishing a period of dominance for the home side. On five minutes a flowing move through the Diss three quarters sent Giles West over in the far corner. McClure stepped up again to convert, thus giving the Mackenders outfit the best possible start in the game. Diss now fell into a malaise of inaccuracy and over confidence. Rather than playing the game in the opposition half, Diss tried to play a far too expansive game in their own twenty two, allowing Upper Clapton the opportunity to capitalise on any crucial errors. Having built up a clear head of steam, Clapton Captain, and number eight, Mitchell Sinfield scored following a series of driving mauls. The second half ended with Diss on the front foot but hardy in complete control.

David Smith’s half time team talk certainly had the desired effect. Diss immediately lifted the tempo and pace of the game, placing the visitors under intense pressure. The fitness levels of the Diss pack now began to impact with the key ball carriers creating opportunities for the Diss three quarters. Following determined forays by Kemi Latu , John Laurie and Ali Abercrombie, inside centre, Jamie Burroughs broke through to score on fifty three minutes. McClure converted thus establishing complete control in the game. Now firmly in control of possession and territory, the home side began to go for the jugular.

The influence of Man of the Match, Warren Wilby, in midfield, was now impacting hugely. A Wilby break and clever chip kick along the clubhouse touchline was retrieved by Giles West, who raced over to score his second try of the day and secure a most vita bonus point . A further McClure penalty extended the lead and for all intents and purposes secured another comprehensive home win. A final foray into the Clapton Half allowed Alex Leader the opportunity to dummy and race over for a final Diss score. Diss now travel to South Woodham Ferrers next week for a season defining encounter that will go some way towards securing automatic promotion.