LONDON ONE NORTH: South Woodham Ferrers suffered a second defeat in succession, losing 62-0 at Brentwood.

Woodham - who were promoted from London Two North East last term - were without several key players.

And skipper Warren Duggan felt that proved pivotal as a strong Brentwood side ran riot.

“We had a second lesson in London North survival at the weekend,” said Duggan.

“The lesson was simple and you simply can’t expect a weakened team to be competitive at this level.

"We were without several key players and Brentwood punished every mistake and missed tackle with some very clinical finishing.”

Despite the final scoreline, the game opened brightly for Woodham and the two teams were evenly matched in the opening 20 minutes.

Woodham’s forwards kept the ball tight before the home side opened the scoring midway through the first half with a converted try.

Further Brentwood pressure followed when Duggan was yellow carded and the hosts led 24-0 at half-time.

The second period began poorly for Woodham as the hosts scored their fifth try of the game before they touched down a further five times in an impressive half an hour spell.

But Duggan was boosted by his side’s work ethic.

“We never gave up and some fine work by the forwards in the final 10 minutes saw us deep in the Brentwood half,” said Duggan.

“It is a shame we could not find that final touch to get on the scoreboard to gain some reward for their endeavours.

"But the pack performed well and played with real heart and it was an outstanding performance given the score.

“The front row should be congratulated for their never say die attitude.”

Woodham will bid to bounce back against Old Haberdashers this weekend.