Beccles gave the London 3NE leaders a good run for their money before slipping to a narrow defeat.
Beccles suffered a setback when the influential Starks was taken off with a dislocated shoulder. In an even first half both sides scored tries with Hoffman going over for the visitors, converted by Wade.
In the second half the game was again even with South Woodham taking advantage of their opportunities and scoring a further two tries.
The result was not necessarily a fair reflection of the game and one Beccles will see as a missed opportunity.
The Beccles man of the match was Reece Ling. Beccles entertain Sudbury on Saturday.
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