SOUTHEND Saxons’ survival hopes suffered a blow when they were beaten 32-14 by fellow strugglers Shelford at Warners Bridge this afternoon.

The defeat saw Southend slip to 14th in the 16 team National Two South table and it was also a bad day for Westcliff as they were seen off 40-14 at Gravesend in National Three London & SE to keep them in the final relegation position.

In London One North, Thurrock secured a vital 26-8 victory against Romford & Gidea Park while in London Two North East, high-flying Rochford Hundred got back to winning ways, beating Basildon 40-0.

However, South Woodham Ferrers were narrowly beaten 16-13 by league leaders Chelmsford.

In London Three North East, struggling Billericay lost 34-3 at home to Harlow and, in Essex One, Pegasus Palmerians edged past Canvey Island 17-16.