SOUTHEND'S miserable start to their National Division Three South campaign continued as they crashed to a heavy defeat against visitors Dings Crusaders on Saturday.

The Seasiders have now lost their opening three league matches this season, leaving them second from bottom in the table, without a point.

Bristol side Dings - who only avoided relegation last term because of league restructuring, while Southend sat in mid-table comfort - in contrast have a 100 per cent record and are second in the standings.

But director of rugby at Warner's Bridge, Kevin Harman, tried to remain upbeat, despite his side's latest setback.

"We were physically intimidated during the first-half," he said.

"After the break we came out and matched them, but it was too late as the damage had already been done.

"When the game finished we sat down as a group and had a long, honest chat about what had happened.

"We have talented players at this club and we will remain patient, but we know we need to do better and improve things.

"This weekend we are without a game and we will use the opportunity to get back-to-basics on the training ground."

Other results: Barking 15, Redruth 15; Havant 15, North Walsham 24; Hertford 14, Tabard 20; Lydney 50, Haywards Heath 8; Old Patesians 31, Weston-Super-Mare 16; Westcombe Park 37, Reading 15.

THURROCK lost their first game of the season in London Two North, 20-16, at Twickenham after winning their previous two outings.