Basildon's classy comeback set up a mouthwatering Essex Cup Final against Rochford - but one of their star players could miss out after a punch left him with a badly-broken jaw.

In-form Craig McLelland was taken to hospital after the one sour moment for a Basildon side whose victory was, for once, based on forward power rather than exciting back-play.

Basildon spokesman Dai Griffiths said: "It doesn't look good for him in the next few weeks. He faces an operation."

The new towners fell behind to a fine Chigwell try early on, as the visitors - although fairly predictable - were virtually camped in Basildon's half for the opening 30 minutes.

However, despite Chigwell's splendid back-row, Basildon recovered from their spluttering fits and starts, producing one or two promising runs and soon taking charge of the lineouts through outstanding pair Matt Bryan and Phil Foster.

Man-of-the-match Chris Spellman, was possibly even more influential in the pack, while evergreen Huw Parsons was in typically-good form.

Basildon's storming start to the second period, amid yesterday's slippery conditions, was finally rewarded when continual pressure left Richard Dennis seemingly certain to score.

An infringement gave the new towners a penalty try, with Richard Pike's conversion putting them ahead.

Basildon soon forced their way up the pitch again, and this time Dennis did cross the line, courtesy of smart work from Bryan, Barry Eldred and Rob Martin.

The second-half injury sustained by McLelland left a bitter taste for Basildon, and added heat to the contest.

Two penalties from Pike took the match beyond Chigwell, who are struggling a division above Basildon, in London League Two.

The new towners, whose last Essex Cup Final was a defeat against Thurrock three decades ago, now face first-time finalists Rochford, who, like them, are in the London League Three top five and well-known for their entertaining rugby.

The game has been set by the sport's authorities for Ilford in a fortnight's time - on the day England go for the Grand Slam against Wales.

However it would make sense for two south Essex sides - keen for a big family day out - to play at a closer venue and on a day when they can take the limelight.

Basildon spokesman Dai Griffiths said: "We want it to be a great occasion. The two clubs are good friends. When we had our fire, they were the first people on to us."

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