Diss whitewash season goes on with away defeat

Diss Rugby Club fell to a 36-14 defeat at the hands of Old Priorians on the road in London 1 North last weekend, their 11th consecutive loss of the season.

It was a result that head coach Dave Smith did not feel reflected the game or efforts of his struggling side and boded well for this Saturday’s away derby with Sudbury (3pm).

“I thought we played really well, but we have been devastated by injuries and that’s really cost us in recent games,” he said.

“We’ve already used 47 players this season, which is close to the 53 in total that played for us last season and it’s not even Christmas.

“But I’m also really pleased with how some of the players have stepped up.

“Scrum-half Marco Mongia was fantastic; he’s a youngster that came into the side and just did so well.

“Andre Dunn really stood out for me too, so there’s lots of positives.

“That’s what you have to focus on when results aren’t going your way – the positives, and there’s plenty of them.”

Despite the final score, Diss dominated 60 per cent of the possession, as they played with a determination and spirit that allowed their three-quarter line to attack from all areas of the pitch.

But the Old Priorians’ defensive structures held firm as they countered well to Diss errors. And that was what led to the first scores, Priorians scoring two well taken converted tries within the first ten minutes.

Diss responded in positive fashion by dominating the forward exchanges, with Mike Jones and Matt Richards exerting huge pressure in the tight scrummage.

Mongia drove the Diss eight forward, eventually releasing Warren Wilby, who showed wonderful determination to score and give Diss the deserved reward for their efforts – with Chris Beaird converting.

Weak Diss defence allowed the Priorians to extend their lead and leave Diss on the back foot at the break.

Priorians started the second half with determination but passionate Diss defence thwarted the onslaught time and again. Ali Brooks, Nick Garnham, Cutu Serruys and George Easton all showed grit to keep the opposition out.

But, ultimately, the pressure told and, after a series of phases, scored two further tries to secure the win.

Diss rallied yet again, however, with Shaun Blyth almost breaking but called back for a foot in touch, before the introduction of Gary White and Ben Walker had the desired effect as Jake Girdler scored to give the visitors a deserved final try.