WESTCLIFF left it very late yet again before a last minute penalty by Tom Lemon secured a 13-13 draw at Eton Manor in London Two North.

Despite their low position in the league table, the home-side were not to be taken lightly and Westcliff struggled to establish control in the first 20 minutes.

Only some very strong tackling by their defence kept Manor from scoring more than they did.

As it was a try and a penalty took them into an 8-0 lead before Westcliff struck.

Scrum-half Gabriel Odediran sprinted clear of the cover and a clear overlap was established, enabling Rob Smith to go over.

Westcliff's run of injuries continued when skipper Sam Newbury went off with knee trouble and they found themselves under pressure against a strong pack.

With Dave Cosgrove keen to run, the backs moved the ball at every opportunity.

The cover was good but was beaten when a splendid passing move swept the ball upfield and it was Cosgrove that gave the scoring pass to Lemon for the try that put Westcliff into the lead for the first time at 8-10.

Manor launched another attack and Westcliff supporters thought a late tackle had been missed as the home side breached the defence for another try to retake the lead.

Stung by this Westcliff returned to Manor territory and Lemon landed the score-equalling penalty goal when the home side offended and thus ensured a point for his team.

“Like the curate’s egg, it was very good in parts,” said Westcliff press officer Geoff Sawyer. “There was some tremendous tackling and Eton Manor were desperate for a win but we showed the sort of toughness we have to come back hard.”