WANSTEAD’S runaway train hit a snag at the weekend as they were reeled back in to the scrap for promotion by fellow high-fliers Campion.

An off-colour Herons outfit surrendered a 6-0 half-time lead, thanks to the boot of Paul Casey, and allowed the visitors to gain a stranglehold on the match, helped by two fortuitous tries.

The team’s four-point lead at the top of Essex One has now been trimmed to just two points, with only two games remaining, including one do-or-die clash against local rivals Bancroft, who are the other side capable of overtaking them.

Indeed, Bancroft made the most of Wanstead’s slip-up as they battled to a 31-24 win over bogey side Old Brentwoods.

Pete Robinson’s early try got the ball rolling for the Bs, but they were soon pulled back. Alex Silk’s 30- yard dash restored the lead, with Tom Farrow adding the extras on both occasions.

However, two elementary errors saw the hosts go into the break with a five-point lead. Joe Warwick took it upon himself to swing the match in Bancroft’s favour, as he went over twice to regain the ascendancy.

The home side scored again to level, but a late score from Farrow, with Burrows converting, ensured the visitors came away with a vital two points.

Elsewhere, in London Two North, Chingford continued their impressive run-in to the season with a 24-10 win over Ruislip.

Dave Knight’s try got things going for the Waltham Wayers before Mark Lawson scampered over after a strong Ryan Pask break, while Luke Campbell scored a brace to wrap up the points.

Eton Manor earned two much-needed points with a thrilling 22-19 win over a strong Bury St Edmunds side. They travel to Civil Service next.

Woodford conceded ground to Chingford in the battle for local bragging rights as they were beaten 35-13 at Letchworth Garden City, while they will take on Bury in two weeks’ time.

Back in Essex One Upper Clapton were narrowly beaten by Thames, although they impressed with tries from Richard Jones, Adam Ayres and Lyndon Franklin.

Ilford went down at home to Maldon 10-20.