SOUTHEND Saxons stormed back to winning ways with a 74-10 win at struggling Luton.

Southend had been beaten in their previous two London One North outings.

And director of rugby Josh Ward was particularly pleased with his side’s performance in the second half.

“It was a game of two halves,” said Ward.

“We were off it in the first 40 minutes, we fell victim to some interesting decisions and failed to adapt.

“The second half was a different story, we took control and we played some wonderful rugby, scoring some great team tries.

“We left a few out there but in general we are really pleased to come away from home and secure a bonus point victory.

“It should be a great day at the Bridge next Saturday with a double header against Eton Manor in front of a big crowd.”

Southend opened the scoring with a try from skipper Ian Morrison before their already relegated hosts hit back with a try of their own.

However, a try from Dan Forster-Knight soon put Southend 14-5 in front at half-time.

After the break, Southend extended their lead with a penalty before Luton replied with another unconverted try.

But, after that, Saxons stepped things up with Chris Vaughan and Tom Day scoring in quick succession.

Jac Sexton then also touched down before Fraser Banks scored twice to put Southend firmly in control.

However, Southend were not finished there as Day bagged his second try of the afternoon before Tom Ramsey and Morrison also scored tries to seal Saxons’ win.

Southend sit eighth in the standings with just one game left to go.

Southend Saxons: Sexton, O’Brien, Banks, Vaughan, Day, Hoult, Inwood, Smith, Grier, Armitage, Newton, Morrison, Forster-Knight, Cann, Wagstaff

Replacements: Bailey, Buckley & Ramsey

>THURROCK dug deep to win 32-29 at Cobham in London One South at the weekend to ensure they will finish the season in fifth.

In London Two North East, South Woodham Ferrers beat Wanstead 22-15 while rock bottom Basildon lost 66-7 at Woodford.

In London Three Essex, Canvey Island beat Barking 24-12.