Diss RFC 26 Colchester RFC 22

For the second week running Diss proved that they can compete on an even keel with the top sides in the League. Victory over third placed Colchester highlighted the progress being made but also the desire and wholehearted attitude of the whole squad towards not only survival in the League but also a desire to play competitive and entertaining rugby.
Colchester opened proceedings with a try crafted by inter-play between backs and forwards alike. Having now adapted to the pace of the game at this level, Diss responded immediately with Chris Beaird and Fraser Hall both making telling breaks to finally release Harry Gooderham to open the home sides account. Barnaby Chenery sent his conversion sailing through the posts to bring the home back into the contest. Colchester returned to the Diss half to score a second converted try which proved as a catalyst to drive the whole Diss side forward in a truly competitive and unforgiving manner. Throughout the second quarter of the game Diss played with a control and authority that shook the opposition and established a winning formula. Barnaby Chenery instigated a flowing move that sent Harry Gooderham scything and weaving through the heart of the Colchester to release Isaiah Hooper. Hooper duly scored and Barnaby Chenery converted with a beautiful touchline conversion. Colchester replied with a penalty of their own to reduce the half time deficit to five points. Individuals were beginning to dominate proceedings. Captain, Fraser Hall was at the heart of everything positive, whilst the second row combination of John Bergin and Will Hudson left nothing on the field. Jo Seaman at scrum half delivered a very accurate and simple pass from the base of all phases whilst the entire Diss back row competed at a level indicating that as a side Diss were now more than able to compete with the pace of play set within the League.
Colchester attacked with fervour as the second half developed. The Diss defensive rear-guard stood firm with the whole team working as a complete unit across the whole field. Decisive moments were going to settle this match. When in possession Diss played with a growing continuity highlighting an ability to retain and control possession. A Stephen Hipwell yellow card proved decisive thus allowing Colchester to increase the pressure, ultimately resulting in a converted Colchester try leaving the home side to win the game within the last ten minutes. The return of Stephen Hipwell, and the growing ability and dynamism of Jon Trede and Jo Hegarty sent Diss deep into the Colchester half. Whilst under pressure in the tight, Stephen Hipwell was able to break from a wheeling scrum and rampage over the Colchester line close to the posts. With Kieran Pask converting, Diss now had to dig deep to hold off a Colchester fight back. Diss closed the game out with an authority and a skill set which indicates the progress being made by the Mackenders outfit. A total team performance of determination and honest endeavour allows Diss to enter the second phase of the season in a confident and positive mood.