WESTCLIFF fought back to record an impressive 29-20 victory at fellow high-flyers Guildford.

Second-placed Westcliff - whose 18 man squad was made up entirely of players who came through their youth system - trailed 13-10 at half-time.

But they were still able to record a sixth win in seven games, much to the delight of director of rugby Rick Compton.

“This was a great result for us,” said Compton.

“Any win on the road is a good win, especially a bonus point one, but with a much-changed team and after losing our way a little in the first half the way we controlled the second half was very pleasing.

“The lads showed not only their grit but also their quality, they have both in spades and are a credit to themselves, each other and the club.”

Westcliff were missing a third of their previous starting line-up through injuries and unavailability but were still able to start brightly with Ross Merrick scoring a try Jack Jones converted.

Despite the confident start, Westcliff began to get on the wrong side of the penalty count, allowing the hosts to build pressure and momentum. That led to Chris Marsh being yellow carded and, shortly after, Guildford kicked two penalties.

Westcliff soon replied with one of their own to lead 10-6 before Guildford bagged their first try to go in at half-time ahead.

Westcliff had been shown another yellow card just before the break, with Jones sent to the sin bin.

But Westcliff were still able to start the second half strongly with Greg Bannister scoring a try after good work from Rob Smith.

Less than 10 minutes later, Bannister was at it again to put Westcliff 24-13 ahead.

More pressure brought further reward and George Maloney was next to score, powering over from close range as the referee played the advantage.

Guildford hit back to score another try deep into stoppage time but by then Westcliff’s victory had already been secured.

Westcliff: Spivey, O Jones, Bannister, R Smith, Merrick, J Jones, H Morrant, Weston, B Morrant, Dellas, Dartnell, Edwards, Marsh, Hatton, J Smith

Replacements: Maloney, Reynolds & Ansell