JON Berry’s late try secured table-topping Basildon a hard-fought 28-22 win against East London.

The victory, which was Basildon’s 10th win in succession, put them nine points clear at the top of the London Three Essex standings.

But Berry was quick to play down his match-winning role.

“It wasn’t my try it was the team’s,” said Berry.

“It was a celebration for the whole team after 80 minutes and even though we were playing with 13 men at times we never let our heads drop.

“We battled until the end and got the win we wanted.”

However, Berry - who is currently enjoying his first season with Basildon after leaving the army - remains determined to build on the win.

“I think promotion is a must for us this season but to finish as champions would be best,” said the 27-year-old, who plays at hooker.

“With the amount that some of the lads have come on this year and the family environment the coaches have put in place I think it’s what the club deserves.

“But it won’t be easy and we saw that on Saturday.

“It was a hard battle up front against a well organised outfit but our preparation, skill set and will to win got us through in the end and that’s what we will need in the games coming up too.”

East London - who sit fourth in the table - went in front with an early try before Basildon replied with a try from Lee Amman who touched down for the fourth game in succession.

Sam Ridley’s conversion put Basildon 7-5 ahead but East London replied with another try to lead 10-7 at half-time.

After the break, Basildon’s second row forward Robin Groves scored his first try in four years before another try, which was also converted by Ridley, put the home-side 21-10 in front.

However, Amman was then yellow carded and East London took full advantage with two tries to lead 22-21.

But, two minutes from time, Berry bagged the game’s crucial try and Ridley again added the conversion to secure another win for Basildon, much to the delight of first team manager Mark Farrell.

“It was our sheer will to win mindset that saw us home,” said Farrell.

“It was a highly contested game and another good win.”