ROCHFORD Hundred’s London Two North East promotion hopes were hit by a 38-10 defeat at Diss.

The setback pushed them eight points behind league leaders Chelmsford.

But first team manager Graham Pratt had no complaints about the result.

“With a winning margin of six tries to two there was no doubt that they were the better team on the day but we never gave up the challenge,” said Diss.

“The first half was a competitive affair and we gave as good as we got with only their more clinical finishing difference.

“There were not too many pluses to take out of the game apart from another good performance from Dan Needham at full back.

“And a great deal of hard graft will be done between now and Saturday’s game at South Woodham Ferrers to get us back on track.”

Rochford initially looked fairly solid against Diss and there was no score in the opening 20 minutes before the hosts took the lead with a converted try.

In reply, Rochford scrum half Brett Smith soon dived over the line to reduce the deficit but Diss soon added two more tries of their own to lead 19-5 at the break.

But, with a strong wind now in their favour, Rochford were still in the game and a good second half performance could have seen them make up the difference.

However, Diss increased the tempo of their game and a lack of cohesive play and fitness from Rochford left them well beaten.

Three more tries for the home-side, two of which were converted, secured victory for third placed Diss, despite a late try from Rochford winger Jon Baker.

Rochford Hundred: Mark,Chivers,Wiseman,Tape,Whight,Corbet,Bevan,Horsburgh,Smith,Ashton,Edwards,Stemp,Stewart,Jon Baker,Needham

Replacements: Bass,Knowles & Jack Baker