Brigade made the journey to 5th placed Houghton full of confidence after a strong turn out at training. Essex was rewarded with a starting spot at flanker after a strong showing from the bench last week with Maslen coming in at centre.

Brigade received the kick and started brightly, tackling with intent with Egglestone, Gorman and, Man of the Match, Hilton quick up in defence, forcing the sizeable home attack backwards.

A high tackle in front of the posts gave the home 10 the opening score, making no mistake from the penalty. A converted try was soon to follow for Houghton with Brigade struggling to cope with Houghton at the set piece. Houghton spread the ball wide at every opportunity, scoring a number of tries out wide. Paul Craggs scored Brigades first try after picking and going through a gap in the middle of a ruck from the homes 22. Brigades second came after good work from Arnell, keeping his forwards busy with crash balls before feeding Ryan Miles coming at speed to score.

Phil Gorman was yellow carded (again) for being 20 yards offside and another high tackle. Brigade rung the changes with Johnson coming off the bench for his Brigade debut and Price and Pickering continuing their rugby education coming on for the last 20.

Final score Houghton 79 Brigade 10. Credit to the lads for sticking in until the end. Training continues Thursday night 18:45 at the changing rooms. All new players welcome.