ROCHFORD Hundred dug deep to beat title rivals Colchester 27-10 in a hard-fought top of the table clash.

Both teams went into the game having not been beaten in London One North so far this season.

But it was Rochford who secured an eighth win in succession, much to the delight of their scrum-half Steve Jay.

“Looking at the results so far we knew we were in for a physical game at the weekend against Colchester so it was another good win for us,” said Jay, who was among Rochford’s try scorers.

“They were also unbeaten so far this season and there had been talk that we hadn’t played any of the top five so far, so we hadn’t been properly challenged.”

However, Rochford - who won London Two North East without losing last season - showed they mean business with another strong showing.

And Jay was quick to praise Hundred’s dominant pack and felt the team could actually have secured a more convincing victory.

“Our forwards fronted up as always and put in a great shift in defence and carrying,” said Jay.

“There is still plenty for us to work on.

“And if we’re honest, we probably left a few points out there on Saturday had we been more clinical.”

But two tries from Sam Fombo, plus others from Mark Ikhifa and Jay, secured the win.

And the scrum-half was happy to be among the scorers.

“It’s always great to score in the big games and I’m really enjoying playing behind a strong pack which makes being a nine so much easier,” said Jay.

“We are on a great winning streak at the moment and we are 100 per cent committed to continuing to improve week after week, to ensure we keep this record going.”

Hundred’s other points came from the reliable boot of fly-half Tom Ashton during an impressive team display which saw them move 12-0 in front before Colchester fought back to within two points.

But Rochford were able to step up a gear in the second half to secure another victory and they now sit five points clear at the top of the table.

However, Hundred face another stern test this weekend as North Walsham - who moved into second on Saturday following Colchester’s defeat - visit Magnolia Road.

Rochford Hundred: Billings, Ikhifa, Nash, Gay, Cleare, Ashton, Jay, Brunger, Ferrier, Guess, Douglas, Allen, Fombo, Hudson

Replacements: Corbet, Kellard & Stewart