North Walsham have nothing to lose by throwing everything they have at league leaders Thurrock when they meet in Essex tomorrow.

Nick Greenhall will no doubt have the usual selection problems to sort out but must impress on his players, as one of his predecessors did, that 'defence wins games'.

All too often against the higher ranked sides the defence has shown signs of frailty although last week against fellow strugglers Rochford they kept their line intact but let themselves down by giving away silly penalties.

If they fall short on that front this weekend then they will be punished even more severely as Thurrock centre Mike Stanley, in addition to being the division's top try scorer with 20 to his name, has also proved relentless with his kicking, amassing 139 points.

Prop Stuart Loose, on the brink of his 400th appearance, is named in the squad but with the experienced Keith Fowles fit again might take a well earned rest. Hooker Mark McCall is another reaching a landmark as his tally reaches three figures. With Iain Beck still injured Leon Davies and Chris Kent are likely to form the second row, but continuing with his rotation policy Greenhall might put Andy Tibbattts on the bench as he was due to play for the RAF against Oxford University on Wednesday. With Henry Dewing unavailable Greenhall could move Shane van Vuuren to scrum half with Chris Borrett as his partner and there could be a recall for either Adam Dye or Nick Austin, who both impressed for the Raiders against UEA last week, on the wing.

• North Walsham product David Treglown has flown to Portugal with England Students for the first of three internationals tomorrow and is likely to start on the bench.

• Beccles will be aiming to make it two straight home wins when they entertain Woodford in London 2NE. Despite their previous success against Canvey Island being their only one of the season so far the Bulls retain hope of avoiding the drop – but really need to win tomorrow to stay in the hunt. They will be hoping for a favour from Lowestoft and Yarmouth, who are at away to second from bottom Old Streetonians.