Diss spurn second-half lead during 10th defeat in London 1 North this season, with loss to Fullerians

Diss’ losing streak in London 1 North has now entered double figures after Saturday’s 39-19 home defeat at the hands of Fullerians.

And yet it could have been so different for the bottom-of-the-table Blues, who had their noses in front with just 20 minutes of the contest remaining at Mackenders.

Visiting Fullerians dominated the early exchanges in Norfolk, establishing a 10-point lead in as many minutes to put the hosts under immediate pressure.

However, Dave Smith’s men responded to the setback in positive fashion and hauled themselves level with two tries of their own.

The first came from an attacking five-metre lineout, which was safely secured, allowing Matt Richards and Jake Girdler to drive over the line, with the latter dotting down.

Chris Beaird stepped up to convert and a second try soon followed for Diss when Cutu Serruys stormed through.

Fullerians full-back Dan Evans went over late in the first to re-establish his team’s lead, but Diss were bright after the restart and got themselves ahead for the first time in the match when captain John Bergin went over and Beaird added the extras.

But, rather than build on their advantage, Diss were unable to stamp their authority on proceedings and instead it was Fullerians who took command.

An Owen Scully try – converted by Evans – wrestled the lead away from Diss and their hopes of recording a first win of the campaign were ended by a quickfire brace from the away team’s star player George Harvey.

The result means that Diss are 10 points from safety after 10 matches, having collected just two points so far this season.

Tomorrow they are away at seventh-placed Old Priorians (2.30pm) – a side that have won their last three matches in a row.