Another crucial game for Diss

RUGBY: Diss have got another vital survival battle on Saturday, but will be buoyed after a much-improved performance last weekend.

This weekend's opponents are North Walsham. A large crowd is expected at Diss to witness another classic local derby – with survival and relegation very much in the balance.

Diss 21, Basingstoke 26

A large crowd gathered at Mackenders to watch the game between two sides at the bottom of the table.

The home side lost winger Aaron Bliss with a suspected broken ankle during the warm-p, and this gave Harry Gooderham his debut earlier than expected.

Harry had a number of good runs and was strong in defence, a player to watch for the future.

Basingstoke were led out by player/coach Junior Paramour, an ex-Samoan international.

Diss were soon up following a try by Charlie Precious duly converted by Chris Beaird.

But they received another injury blow, when after only five minutes Will Farrer caught a stray boot, split his head open, and was unable to continue.

The home pack was in the ascendancy with a number of good inter passing moves, unfortunately one pass too many led to an interception try for the left winger. 7-5 to Diss.

Basingstoke were awarded an easily kickable penalty and the lead changed. A second try for Basingstoke was unconverted.

For Diss, Pete Bray forced his way over supported by Abercrombie, Beaird converted. A second penalty for Basingstoke left the half-time score at 14-16.

In the second half Basingstoke scored a well-worked try through their forwards, converted,

Steve Hipwell, who made some impressive runs during the game, scored for Diss, Beaird converted.

Basingstoke were awarded a penalty, which made it 26-21 to them. Diss were awarded a penalty late in the second half and with only a try being of use went for the corner and the win.

Eventually, the clock ran down and Diss had to be content with a bonus point when five points were on the cards.