Wait for win goes on

Diss’ losing start to the new London League 1 North campaign continued on Saturday as they suffered a 69-7 defeat at the hands of high-flying Rochford Hundred.

It has been a tough opening few weeks for the Blues, who have now dropped to the foot of the table.

In contrast, the win has moved hosting Rochford to the top, one point clear of Colchester – another side that have managed to get the better of Diss this term.

It was a young visiting team that made the trip to Essex, with seven players aged 18 or younger included in Dave Smith’s selection.

And, despite the one-sided nature of the scoreline, there were many moments across the 80 minutes when the youngsters made a big impression.

Rochford were able initially to exert intense pressure at the scrummage and breakdown.

Their hooker, Tom Corbet, had a wonderful game, scoring three outstanding tries, all from well within his own half.

However, having conceded early in the half, Diss battered the Rochford line with the likes of Matt Richards, Jake Girdler, Matt Warren and Ally Brooks all going close.

Handling errors at crucial moments released the Diss pressure and opened up the midfield through which Rochford capitalised.

Nevertheless, at no stage throughout the game did Rochford spend any time in the Diss 22 for any sustained period.

The return of George Gooderham to the side proved a big plus for the away team.

Gooderham tested the Rochford defensive structures from the outset and was instrumental in setting up man-of-the match Nick Garnham for a well-worked forwards try just prior to the half-time whistle.

The home side scored points at regular intervals in the second half as the game broke up and more space became available.

The young half-back pairing of Will Tomson and George Jones stood up well to the driving onslaught of the Rochford back row, but ultimately it was the hosts that won through comfortably.

Diss will be hoping for better fortunes and their first win of the campaign tomorrow when they play host to Old Haberdashers (3pm).

The visitors head into the clash sitting fifth in the table with 16 points.