CLACTON succumbed to a rare defeat at Basildon, in the Eastern League.

It brought to an end their 25-match winning run.

With Neil Coles and Dan Hunn stuck in traffic, the Seasiders faced a long match in a large pool, with only one substitute.

They still were confident of winning, but a young Basildon side played out of their skins to claim an unexpected 11-7 victory.

Depending on how other results go, the Seasiders will now need to beat Basildon in the return match in March if they are to retain their title.

Team (goals in brackets): Mick Eastman, Robert Eastman (5), Nick Westlake, Adrian Westlake (2), Ian Westlake, James Fry, Jeremy Cox, Mick Rodwell.

n On Friday, it was back to normal with Clacton facing Ipswich at the Royal Hospital School.

The result was never in doubt and the champions handed out a 22-6 thrashing, with a fine display of clinical finishing.

Team (goals in brackets): Mick Eastman, Robert Eastman (7), Nick Westlake (1), Adrian Westlake (8), Ian Westlake (4), James Fry, Jeremy Cox (1), Mick Rodwell (1).