Basildon's hopes of a thrilling come-from-behind win evaporated when the conversion attempt of their equalising try missed.
The last-minute effort would have capped a superb fightback from the new towners, who drew level at 17-17 with Stuart Adams' try.
Basildon had started well and had scored tries through Russell Faint and Matt Bryan.
They were also boosted by the debuts of youngsters George Baker (scrum-half) and Richie Roberts (flanker).
Published Tuesday October 29, 2002
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