TABLE-TOPPING Basildon edged closer to the London Three Essex title with a hard fought 26-13 win against Campion.

The victory saw Basildon go nine points clear of second placed Millwall.

But first team manager Mark Farrell was not too pleased with the display.

“It definitely wasn’t our best performance of this campaign,” said Farrell.

“Among some poor decision making we played outside our game plan, making it hard work against a very ordinary side.

“But, yet again, we showed good resolve and determination to win.

“Our ability to not give up and play to the 80th minute while refusing to lose has been our single biggest strength this season.”

Saturday’s clash was certainly not pretty to watch but it was second from bottom Campion who opened the scoring with an early penalty before their hosts began to get on top.

As a result, Basildon winger Levi Causton soon touched down before scrum half Dan Rowley - Basildon’s top try scorer this season - scored his 12th of the current campaign.

The home side then extended their lead with a try from second row forward Robin Groves before fly-half Sam Ridley followed up his own kick and chase to score another try in the corner.

Ridley also added three excellent conversions during another good performance, but it was 19-year-old Causton who was chosen as man of the match.

And Farrell is now keen for Basildon to build on their 11th successive win as they bid to secure the London Three Essex title and promotion into London Two North East.

“We have four games to go this season and need to win two and get points from the other two to take the title and promotion,” said Farrell.

“That’s obviously what we will be aiming to do and we’re pleased to have got another win despite having not really played as well as we would’ve liked.”

Basildon are back in action a week on Saturday, when they head to bottom of the table Mavericks.

>FIFTH placed Canvey Island saw off Maldon 33-22 in London Three Essex.

Jack Chandler and Alfie Justice bagged first half tries to put Canvey 12-3 in front at half-time.

Brett Smith touched down after the break before another try from Justice and a penalty try secured victory against sixth placed Maldon.