Saffron Walden 33, Lowestoft & Yarmouth 32
Despite a host of changes L&Y almost came away with a deserved away win but in a frantic ending, it was the home side who edged home.
On the hottest day so far this year, unavailabilities pushed L&Y into selecting their heftiest side of the season and the firm Waldon pitch was always going to favour the lighter and quicker home team.
However, although L&Y had no option but to keep the play tight, their forwards played superbly. Carl Stephenson and Aaron Trindall were both drafted into performed admirably considering their lay-offs.
Steve Adams deservedly scored his first try of the season to break the early deadlock. Russ Chapman converted but Waldon hit back with an unconverted try and a penalty.
L&Y then constructed another neat score with good work from Chris Howe, Marc Thomas and Richard Bristo giving Scott Nelson the space to dummy and trot under the posts.
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Chapman converted and then Howe tapped a kickable penalty and found Thomas in support with Bristo and lock Russ Wilkinson was on hand to get the unconverted touchdown.
After the break Waldon scored a converted try and a penalty before Chapman replied with one for L&Y. Although L&Y were still four points ahead the momentum was turning to the home team, so it was a relief when Sutherland added another try.
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Nelson then tried a grubber in midfield but it went straight to a Waldon player and two passes later they were through and over the line. Another try soon followed.
L&Y were behind by three with minutes to play, so they thought they has clinched it with a fine try from captain Marc Thomas. But they conceded two penalties in kickable range and Waldon bagged the second to regain the lead.