BANCROFT coach Steve Baker was left celebrating a magnificent 12 victorious games in a row as his team secured second spot in Essex One with a 16-0 win over rivals Ilford Wanderers.

After a cagey start, the Bs managed to break the deadlock when James Connor crashed over before Tom Farrow added a penalty ahead of half-time.

A number of mistakes characterised the second period, but Bancroft did add to their lead when Matt Henry found Matt Barrett for the second try. With the clock ticking down Farrow added another penalty.

The team are now guaranteed at least a play-off spot, with Campion almost out of sight in top spot.

Meanwhile, Woodford threw away a handsome lead in a disappointing second half as they were pipped at the post by a resilient Harpenden side in their London One North clash at the weekend.

Tim Saul had got the hosts off to a flyer when he scored an excellent try, with Ben Lloyd adding the extras.

A powerful drive yielded another five points and, when Lloyd converted a penalty, Woodford appeared to be streaking away with the points at 15-3.

That feeling was reinforced when Will Evans, recently promoted from the club’s colts, sprinted down the right to touch down over the line.

Rarely has the phrase ‘a game of two halves’ been more apt, as the visitors plundered two tries and two penalties to emerge with the points.

Elsewhere, Chingford endured a bad day at the office as they were beaten 10-3 at home by Stevenage Town.

There was better news for Eton Manor, who enjoyed a superb 34-7 victory over fifth-placed Ruislip, a result that nudges them ahead of rivals Woodford on points difference.

In London Three North East, Wanstead were 21-14 victors over Wisbech.

In Essex Two, Loughton were beaten in an entertaining contest with Burnham-on-Crouch, 31-24. In the division’s other match Ongar toiled to a 5-5 draw with May & Baker.