Match Report

Diss produced a determined and ultimately successful performance away from home for the first time this season. Opening the game on the front foot Diss asserted pressure on the Saffron Walden try line but struggled to convert their dominance with the loss of three crucial line outs close to the Saffron Walden defensive line.
After a period of defensive work Saffron Walden capitalised on continual infringements by Diss at the breakdown and off-side line. Nick Garnham was sent to the sin bin and Saffron Walden opened their account with a well struck penalty.

Diss now took control of the game with Hugo Barrett racing in to score from deep within his own half with the try being converted by Will Laverne. The Diss forwards now gained control with the front five dominating the breakdown, eventually sending Chris Kent over the line to establish a deserved nine point half time lead.

Dominating the opening exchanges of the second half allowed Ryan Gardner to score a third Diss try thus establishing a clear sixteen point lead. Saffron Walden rallied scoring an unconverted try that stirred the home side into a frenzy of attacking rugby. Diss should have scored but dropped the ball when over the line. Both teams found it difficult to please the referee at the breakdown with Diss suffering two further yellow cards.

Lacking confidence over the last few games Diss now buckled down to see the game out. Will Laverne controlled affairs from fly half and the entire team stood up to the mark defensively. Succumbing to a further Saffron Walden try following a series of infringements brought the game closer than it really should have been. Led by a determined defensive effort from the likes of Matt Richards, Nick Garnham, John Bergin and Jake Girdler gave the visitors the victory they fully deserved. The Diss three quarter line performed with greater authority this week with Archie Johnston, Fraser Barron and Chris Beaird all holding firm in defence, whilst offering more options in attack.