Diss RFC 34 Saffron Walden RFC 34

For the third home game in a row, Diss subjected their loyal support to another frantic, error ridden and thoroughly entertaining encounter. An inability to retain possession and defend consistently yet again proved crucial at vital moments. Saffron Walden full back, Tom Price opened the scoring following poor tackling within the Diss twenty two. Diss then responded with an attacking period of their own. Stephen Hipwell levelled the scores with a try from 10 meters thus allowing Chris Beaird to convert to re-establish authority. Diss attacked yet again only to see a loose and forced pass intercepted by Paul Marshall who raced the length of the field to score yet another converted try. On 30 minutes a well- executed Saffron Walden line out sent Adam Miles over to increase the visitors lead to a clear ten points. Diss lacked energy and struggled hugely to impose any authority on the game. Yet another promising move that frankly should have resulted in a try resulted in a second Saffron Walden interception that allowed Paul Marshall to increase the visitors lead to 22-7. A catalogue of inaccuracy and naivety had yet again put the Mackenders outfit on the back foot suggesting that for the remainder of the game Diss were going to have to play catch up. Diss however do show resilience when challenged as highlighted by two well struck penalties from Chris Beaird on the stroke of half time.
Diss responded positively following the break and following excellent inter play between Warren Wilby and Jo Brock, Freddie Precious was sent through to score a converted try that brought the scores level early into the half. Jon Trede and Warren Wilby both had outstanding games defensively, thwarting numerous Saffron Walden attacks at source. Poor discipline then impacted yet again with Jacob Page sent to the Sin bin as the game approached its final quarter. Diss attacked close to the Walden line only to give away a needless penalty that resulted in the talented Tom Price scoring at the Diss end of the pitch. As time slipped away Diss responded to the example being set by Stephen Hipwell by working the ball into the Walden twenty two. First phased possession and a well worked set move sent the ever present Chris Beaird under the post to yet again bring the scores level. For the first time in the game Diss now took control and following a superb touch kick from Jack Peacock the rampaging Stephen Hipwell crashed over to give the home side a seven point lead. For all intense and purposes the game should have been won. However, Diss do possess an Achilles heel and it reared its ugly head again as Saffron Walden retained possession to score a final converted try through Tom Pyke to seal a deserved draw. Although exciting this was a lacklustre and inept performance that should have resulted in a convincing home win.