EASTERN COUNTIES 2 - Mistley 39 Haverhill 13

MISTLEY enjoyed a good victory against Haverhill.

Missing four first-team regulars, the hosts still had enough to show that they could well be contenders for promotion this season with a good performance that delighted the home fans.

Mistley took an early lead through second row, Mark Turner, but their lead was shortlived as a try and a penalty put Haverhill in the ascendancy, at 8-5 up.

Mistley hit back though when front-row lock Ryan Knapton powered through to make the score 10-8, before another try, from Stephen Betts, and a goal kick from Ed Barrie gave the hosts a nine-point half-time lead.

Mike Stephens grabbed Mistley’s first try of the second period and with veterans David Wood and Bertie Baxter excelling, dominated the rest of the game.

Newcomers Oliver King and Will Vine relished the attacking play and Stephens and Dam Butcher scoring further tries, Ed Barrie converting.

Haverhill never gave up and scored a final try before Barrie had the last word with a successful penalty kick.