CANVEY Island secured a third win in a row on Saturday, beating Maldon 21-5.

The victory kept the Islanders fifth in the Essex One standings.

And coach Rob Edwards felt his side were worthy winners.

"We deserved the win and played some excellent rugby,” said Edwards.

“But we have got to stop nodding off and letting the opposition back in games"

Canvey opened the scoring with a try from full-back Charlie Downs which was converted by John Edwards to put the hosts 7-0 in front.

However, Maldon – who are just below the Islanders in the table – soon got back in to the game and scored two unconverted tries to lead 10-7 at the break.

After the interval, Canvey began to pile on the pressure and they went back in front when Downs scored his second try of the game which Edwards again converted.

Moments later, Islanders’ prop Billy Gorringe was sent to the sin bin and Maldon made the most of their extra man to score another unconverted try.

But, when back to 15 men, Canvey were able to break out of their own half in a move which resulted in winger Dan Gillett going over to score a try which Edwards again converted to seal his side’s victory.

Pegasus Palmerians were also celebrating in Essex One at the weekend as they secured a shock 55-5 win against Dagenham.