SOUTH Woodham Ferrers moved to within five points of table-topping Diss with 34-7 win against Epping Upper Clapton.

The game was one of two second placed Woodham had in hand on the London Two North East league leaders.

And head coach Tony Woods was delighted to see his side get their promotion push back on track after a surprising defeat at Woodford.

“It was just the statement we wanted to make on Saturday,” said Woods.

“We absolutely dominated the first half but with the changes made at half time we become slightly disjointed. We defended well and would have kept a clean sheet had the referee seen the basketball bounce knock on.

“But we’re happy to win and win well and we want to do the same against Campion now.

“Saturday was a real one to 18 performance and it was pleasing to see.

“In the back line we moved four players around in the second half which showed our depth and versatility.

“Ryan Marshall had an excellent game across the park and I am sure he’s tackle count will be huge when the analysis comes through.”

Warren Duggan bagged two tries for Woodham while Jake Rawinsky, Joe Dukelow, Ryan Marshall and Ross Noakes also touched down.

And first team manager Jack Kershaw is keen to keep the pressure on Diss.

“We’re now five points behind Diss with a game in hand,” he said.

“By the time mid-February comes we could be joint top when we play one each other.”