COLCHESTER Rugby Club produced a whole-hearted performance but lost 24-17 in their National League division three match at home to Guildford.

The visitors broke the deadlock with a converted try and then scored from a penalty to open a 10-0 lead.

Ollie White forced his way over the line to half the deficit and that was the way it stayed until half-time.

Colchester had lots of pressure after the break but were unable to make it count and they suffered a sucker-punch when Guildford scored two converted tries to move 24-5 ahead.

Still the hosts refused to wave the white flag and James Crozier put more points on the board, after great work from Joe Flexman and Tom Miller.

Jerone Awesu then scored another try – converted by Crozier – to set up a grandstand finish at Mill Road.

However, try as they might, Colchester were unable to add to their tally and the final score was 24-17.