A DEPLETED Westcliff side suffered a narrow 21-19 defeat at title rivals Wimbledon in London & SE Premier Division.

Westcliff, who were missing a number of key players, led 14-7 at the break.

But the hosts hit back to triumph in the second half, much to the frustration of Westcliff’s director of rugby Rick Compton.

“It was a big game and a big opportunity that slipped frustratingly from our grasp at the death,” said Compton.

“Nevertheless we are not displeased with the way we played or the contribution of the players as individuals and as a team.

“The effort and commitment were total and we played good rugby when we were able to and defended superbly when we had to.

“But the game was lost in a 10-minute spell when a few things went against us.

“Wimbledon capitalised on that opportunity well and should be applauded for that, but we know that it is a game we could and should have won.

“We can’t do anything about that now and attention will turn to our next game.

“But first we will embrace a very welcome week off to regroup and hopefully overcome a few lingering injury issues.”

Wimbledon’s win saw them climb above Westcliff into second place and the home team caught the visitors napping straight from the kick off to eventually score a converted try.

However, Westcliff hit back and some quality offloading and link up play released Jim Smith to score under the posts to level the scores after 13 minutes.

Wimbledon were then reduced to 14 men for 10 minutes following a deliberate knock on and Westcliff were quick to make the extra man pay with another try from Smith putting them 14-7 in front.

Smith scored again after the break to make it 19-7 but Westcliff suffered three setbacks in quick succession.

Hooker Billy Morrant and the influential Smith were both forced off before centre Rob Smith was shown a yellow card.

Wimbledon immediately replied with another try of their own before touching down again 10 minutes from time to secure victory.

Westcliff: Bannister, Marsh, Reynolds, R Smith, Merrick, Whiting, H Morrant, Brown, B Morrant, Lane, Scogings, Anderson-Brown, Binstead, Hatton, J Smith.

Replacements: Macintyre, Maloney, & Roskams