Thetford 1st XV 17 : 17 Diss Saracens

The equivalent fixture last season produced a 25 all draw so indicating there is little between the two sides. But it was interesting to see the two teams' contrasting reactions at the final whistle - Thetford jumped for joy while there were no celebrations from Diss. On the day a draw was a fair result but Diss gave a below par, post Christmas performance while Thetford had more hunger.

The dry, still conditions were ideal for Diss' expansive game but it just didn't quite click. The Diss line out functioned well but their scrum creaked at times and there were a few soft turnovers in the pack. The dangerous Diss back line failed to fire as they have done for much of the season although debutante Paul Peacock gave a man of the match performance from full back. Scrum half Wilber van der Hemment also engaged well.

Thetford drew first blood as they were virtually gifted a try. Diss remained calm and after a searing break by Sooty Smith the lithe Tim Harrison touched down in the corner. Diss then took the lead as skipper Will Foote went over after a sublime run from deep. Thetford then scored a converted try to go into the interval with a 12-10 lead.

The second half was again tight and it was the predatory Chev Trede who broke the deadlock, pouncing on a fortunate kick by veteran Sebastian Goodge over the Thetford line, Tim Harrison converted. Diss tried to move up a gear and threatened to take control of the game but instead became frustrated and Thetford's never say die attitude enabled them to level the score with 10 minutes to play.