CHINGFORD produced a late rally to come from behind and sink Bury St Edmunds 24-14 at the weekend.
The Waltham Way side trailed for much of the contest on Saturday, but two late tries from Graeme Spencer and Robert Gash completed an impressive turnaround for the hosts.
Two penalties from the visitors gave them the early initiative but Chingford came back to lead with a penalty from Gash and a converted try from Lewis Padmore just before the break.
The lead was not to last long, however, as a try and another penalty from Bury saw them claim the ascendancy once more.
Having been stung by late scores on several occasions this season, Chingford would have been forgiven for thinking it was just not to be their day. But the team reversed the trend with five minutes to play, Spencer powering over the line for a one-point lead. Gash made no mistake with the resulting conversion and he then made sure of the win when he went over for the decisive third try.
Padmore, Luke Mullett and Kenton Simms excelled as they stepped up to the first team, while Donnagh Fitzgerald was also impressive at full-back. Chingford now have fourth place in London One North wrapped up and, although their position represents a solid season, the overwhelming feeling will be that of disappointment, as promotion looked a distinct possibility earlier in the campaign.
Their final game of the season is a home clash against Letchworth Garden City.
Meanwhile, Eton Manor stretched their winning run to three games with a 21-18 victory at Rochford Hundred.
The late revival means the New Wilderness men will now finish no lower than eighth this season, with home games against Bury St Edmunds and Stevenage Town to come.
Elsewhere, in London Three North East, Wanstead were the only other local side in action, as they were narrowly beaten at home to Upminster, 19-16 the final score.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here