MALDON Rugby Club's first match after Christmas resulted in a 28-15 loss at in-form Canvey Island, in Essex League division 1B.

Their hosts have gained some new squad players and boasted a considerably larger pack.

After the initial exchanges, Maldon appeared up for the challenge, though, and were first to put points on the board.

Canvey were penalised in front of goal and Sam Langston converted to put his side 3-0 ahead.

The first scrum of the game showed exactly where Canvey’s strengths were, though, pushing the visitors back, with their attacking back-line running through the back-pedalling Maldon backs.

Canvey continued to use their advantage in the scrum and continued to control the first half.

At half-time, Maldon were behind and frustrated coach Judd urged his side to show some fight and play with speed.

Maldon did just that in the second half.

Changes were made in the scrum and their play was more intelligent across the pitch.

The lineout remained an advantage for Maldon, with both Jack Judd and James Bennett being boosted in the line, while Maldon’s off the top and driving lines gave the side plenty of forward momentum.

Hez Crane and Dan Farrup, carrying the ball for the forwards, showed some fight as Maldon inched their way up the field and centre Jamie Farrup was utilised heavily to find a way through the hardy Canvey defence.

Multiple infringements within Canvey's 22 gave Maldon opportunities to test their defence again and again and a final breakthrough by centre Bradley White gave them a well-earned reward.

Maldon continued to appear aggressive through their quick phase plays, threatening the Canvey line throughout the second half.

Canvey’s defence was a tough nut to crack, though, and a final move off a lineout and out the back brought full-back Joshua Chadwick into the line to break through the gap and give Maldon a second towards the end.

Despite a dominant attacking display in the second half, Maldon’s slow and lacklustre start gave Canvey too big a lead to chase and a 28-15 loss leaves Maldon fourth and Canvey third.

Crane was nominated man-of-the-match.

On Saturday, Maldon are back at home for their next league fixture against Harwich and Dovercourt, kicking-off at 2pm at Drapers Farm.