CAPTAIN Harry Branch felt Westcliff’s 10-7 win against Southend Saxons on Saturday was a massive step forward for the club.

Westcliff’s victory was their first against Southend since 1982.

And Branch, who was with Saxons before returning to the Gables, was delighted to play a part in the triumph.

“The game was unreal, the atmosphere was brilliant and it was a privilege to be part of the game,” said the scrum-half.

“I can’t explain how much energy was surging around the whole ground and it’s something I won’t ever forget.

“Getting the win was pretty priceless for myself, the boys and the club.

“It was a huge day for both clubs, bringing together so many people to watch the game and for us to win was a massive step forward for Westcliff Rugby Club.”

However, the opening exchanges were just as had been expected at the weekend with both sides looking to gain the upper hand.

But it was Westcliff - who came into the game in far greater form - who opened the scoring after 17 minutes when they moved to the open-side from a solid scrum base and created an overlap for Chris Dudman to outstrip the defence and score in the corner.

Westcliff wasted further opportunities to add to their lead as the conversion and two penalties were both missed before Southend were reduced to 14 men when winger Ben Murphy was yellow carded.

Westcliff were quick to take advantage and went further ahead when they again profited from creating space on the right hand side and Uta Tupuola touched down to make it 10-0.

The try again went unconverted and Westcliff’s lead stayed the same going into half-time.

The home-side also remained on top at the start of the second period with another penalty being missed by Jack Jones.

However, Westcliff continued to attack and, with Southend’s defence becoming increasingly stretched, the visitors had Ian Morrison yellow carded.

Despite their numerical disadvantage, Saxons hit back with skipper Marcus Bloomberg touching down and the fit again Brad Burr kicking the conversion to reduce the hosts’ lead to just three points.

But Westcliff were able to stay in front, much to the delight of their first team manager Rick Compton.

“To be honest the last few minutes were a bit uncomfortable mainly because we left too many points out there when we might have been another 10 to 15 points ahead,” said Compton.

“Credit Southend for cranking it up and putting a bit of a squeeze on at the end, which I for one could have done without!

“But also credit to the lads who protected our line. It completed a much deserved victory and prevented what would otherwise have been daylight robbery.”