SOUTHEND Saxons’ National Two South survival hopes suffered a blow with a 25-20 defeat at relegation rivals Lydney this afternoon.

Southend went in to the game on the back of three wins in a row but were unable to keep the good run going.

As a result, they now sit just one place and four points above Lydney who occupy the final relegation position.

There was better news for Westcliff in National Three London & SE though as they saw off Tring 18-12 at the Gables to move up to 10th in the table.

In London One North, Thurrock were also successful as they beat Brentwood 17-14 to remain 11th in the standings.

Fifth placed Rochford Hundred returned to action in London Two North East with a 58-0 win against Braintree but struggling Basildon were beaten 8-5 by Norwich while South Woodham Ferrers lost 19-7 at Diss.

In London Three North East, lowly Billericay lost 62-0 at Cantabrigian but, in Essex One, Canvey Island triumphed 22-0 at Millwall and Pegasus Palmerians beat Bancroft 29-12.

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