WESTCLIFF were left ruing a slow start after slumping to a 28-12 defeat at East Grinstead.

Westcliff had been hoping to build on their shock win against Westcombe Park on their return to National Three London & SE action.

But the hosts raced in to a 21-0 lead which Westcliff were unable to claw back.

Yet their first team manager Rick Compton was still pleased with the performance.

“We competed manfully throughout the game and although we left empty handed it was not a performance with which we can be displeased,” said Compton.

“Grinstead have an excellent set up with significant resources, a strong squad and coaching team and no little ambition.

“They looked to be a side getting into their stride and ready to push on.

“Good luck to them but I genuinely believe we have a group at Westcliff who are capable of competing and surviving at this level.

“It will be difficult but these lads are tough, brave and have quality too.

“The club has a lot of faith in them not to mention pride.”

Despite that, Grinstead opened the scoring with their number eight Adam Clayton touching down for a try which was converted.

That heralded a 20 minute purple patch for the hosts and for Clayton, in particular who scored two more tries which were both converted to make it 21-0 at the break.

The second half was a more even contest with Grinstead continuing to dominate territory and opportunity and Westcliff carrying occasional threat as they repelled the attacks.

But the visitors soon began to apply pressure of their own with prop forward Ewan Binneman finishing off after a series of short drives.

Greg Bannister added the conversion before replied with another try in the final 10 minutes to secure a try scoring bonus point.

However, Westcliff still had time to bag a late consolation with Tom Argentieri touching down.

But it proved to be too little too late for the 12th placed visitors.

Argentieri, O’brien, Parmenter, Mamea, Dudman, Bannister, B Jones, Skidmore, Hopkins, Binneman, Barnett, Dartnell, Scoggins, Anderson-Brown, Reynolds

Replacements: Dellas, Smith & Garstin