SOUTHEND Saxons ended a run of two successive defeats by beating Old Elthamians 29-26 at Warners Bridge.

The victory moved Southend up to 11th in the National Two South standings and it was also a good day for Westcliff in National Three London & SE as they saw off third placed Westcombe Park 18-13 at the Gables to move up to 12th.

In London One North, Thurrock slipped to 11th after losing 28-10 at home to Colchester but Rochford Hundred continued their fine run of results in London Two North East with a 17-8 win at Old Cooperians.

They have now secured eight victories in nine games but they remain third in the standings while South Woodham Ferrers lost 27-7 at Saffron Walden and Basildon were seen off 52-10 at Holt.

In London Three North East, winless Billericay lost 33-10 at home to Stowmarket and, in Essex One, Canvey Island lost 52-0 at home to May & Baker.