Gutsy Southend put up a brave fight before going down at league leaders Barking in their Essex derby clash on Saturday.

The Seasiders couldn't have asked for a better start as they stunned their high flying hosts after just three minutes.

Southend secured an early lineout and set up a driving maul which pushed Barking backwards and over the try line for hooker Brian McMahon to open the scoring.

Simon Hoult had his work cut out as he attempted to kick the conversion from within five metres of the touch line, but a lucky bounce off the far post went in his favour giving the visitors a seven point lead.

However, Barking demonstated just why they are top of National Division Three South to bounce back and win 27-14.

Southend slipped to ninth in the table.