Basildon blew a chance to close the gap on leaders Shelford with a disappointing display on Brentwood's notorious slope.

Chingford did the new towners a favour by beating Shelford, but Basildon couldn't take advantage after a performance that failed to live up to their usual high standards.

Club officials pointed to a lack of discipline, a failure to make use of the elements and a disappointing team effort for the result.

Brentwood took a 12-5 half-time lead with nine of the opposition points coming from penalties after Basildon ill-discipline.

Basildon also insisted on running the ball out of defence with the wind when perhaps kicking would have been the better option.

Despite the disappointment, there were two moments of magic to lift the team's spirits.

The first was a superb opening try from flying winger Lloyd Williams, who cruised over after the ball was moved along the line following a ruck.

The second, in the opening minutes of the second half, also came from a set-piece. Second phase ball was moved out to Matt Bryan, who brushed aside the defence to score.

Published Tuesday, March 19, 2002