With 10 minutes remaining in this hard fought and free flowing game, Diss found themselves in striking distance of the home side and would have at least expected a bonus point for their endeavours in London One North.
However, Colchester possess a very talented three quarter line and took advantage of a tiring Diss defence to score three decisive tries as the game came to its conclusion.
The Essex side hit the ground running scoring a converted try after only two minutes of play. Diss responded superbly to this threat and soon settled into a solid pattern of defence and resolution, beginning to drive the ball deeper into the Colchester half and establishing a foothold in the game.
Poor Diss tackling allowed Colchester a second converted try as the last 10 minutes of the half approached. The visitors then responded magnificently with a series of close quarter drives that sent John Laurie over the line to bring Diss back into the game.
Todd Wishart also had a try disallowed just before the break, Colchester seized possession and moved the ball swiftly through their back division to score on the half-time whistle and make it 19-7.
Colchester attacked from the restart and yet again Diss were forced to defend very much on the back foot. An admirable level of composure and leadership from the senior players thwarted the Colchester onslaught.
An interception from Kieran Pask at last allowed Diss to attack from within the Colchester half. Chris Beaird, moved to scrum-half, was instrumental in driving close to the Colchester line. Support from Laurie, Stephen Hipwell and Matt Richards eventually sent Wishart over the line. Pask converted to give Diss the opportunity to not only secure a bonus point but also challenge for victory.
The most defining difference between the sides was without doubt pace. Colchester were able in the last 10 minutes to release their back division who scored three absolutely outstanding tries to seal a deserved home win. Diss will have taken a huge amount from the game that will benefit the side for future battles.
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 The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.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