Chelmsford slump to defeat in London 2 North

CHELMSFORD played for long periods of this game in a stiff wind and drizzling rain, and were on the back foot.

Basildon, who are second in the league and seeking promotion, provided a well-organised outfit, being particularly good in the back row.

Playing with the wind in the first half, Chelmsford never really used the elements to their advantage.

Basildon went into the lead after 20 minutes following a scrum near the Chelmsford line.

The Basildon scrum half picked up the ball and danced around the Chelmsford defence without a hand being placed on him.

This has been a weakness in the Chelmsford game for several matches where the gap between the scrum or rack and the fly half has been utilised by the opposition to launch attacks.

Chelmsford came back into the game briefly and undoubtedly scored the best try of the match.

Sasu Wihapi made a break in the middle of the field and the ball was fed to Mike Mullings who scampered 30 yards up the touch line before giving it to Joe Touma who plunged over for an unconverted try.

The second half was always going to be difficult for Chelmsford and the critical period occurred 20 minutes in when Quinn was shown the yellow card.

During those ten minutes Basildon scored twice through a scrum pushover and a catch and drive lineout. Chelmsford to their credit came back at Basildon for a short period but it was no surprise when Basildon scored another try after fine work by their forwards.

Chelmsford are presently in mid table position and with five games to go will look towards the Essex Cup in future weeks to get something out of the season, which has been spoilt by the number of injuries.