BASILDON secured a fourth win in five games, beating East London 22-19.

The victory saw Basildon move up to third in the London Three Essex standings, level on points with table-topping Millwall.

And first team manager Mark Farrell was happy to see his side grind out another triumph on the road.

“It was a real dogfight of a game won by the side that showed it wanted to win,” said Farrell.

“We showed raw power, controlled aggression and sheer determination.

“It was a great game to watch and even better to win.”

Basildon started the game strongly, with captain Jim Harman bagging the first of his three tries.

The visitors remained on top with their pack being well marshalled by scrum-half Dan Rowley and, through playmaker Sam Ridley, a very well executed move saw Lewis McGrath cut a great line and smash two covering East London forwards to score under the posts.

The resulting conversion made it 12-0 but East London soon replied with two quick tries of their own to lead 14-12 at half-time.

After the break, the game became more of a dogfight until Harman bagged his second try of the game, smashing his way over following a rolling maul.

But, within 45 seconds, one bad mistake and two missed tackles enabled East London to take a 19-17 lead.

However, Basildon were able to get themselves back on top and a spell of relentless pressure resulted in Harman touching down to secure another victory for his side.