Chelmsford had hoped to enter 2002 with better fortunes than last year and had one of the best opportunities when they took on Wymondham on Saturday at Coronation Park.

Both teams are struggling at the bottom of London NE3 and need every point they can get and although Wymondham won the away fixture, Chelmsford went out believing they could win.

This self-belief was evident from the start and Chelmsford seemed to have a much more positive attitude than the one they had when playing Bury at the tail-end of last year.

Chelmsford took the first points when Rob Foster comfortably slotted over a penalty.

There were no further scores until 35 minutes in when Wymondham broke down the Chelmsford defence to score a converted try leaving the half-time score at 7-3 to the visitors.

There was nothing spectacular about the second half.

Wymondham extended their lead with a converted try.

Chelmsford scored a consolation try in the last few minutes when Rob Foster made a darting run through the opposition defence to score and also converted his try.

This had come too late - Chelmsford still could not make up the four point deficit and this resulted in yet another defeat.

On Saturday Chelmsford take on Campion away in a friendly (kick off 2.15pm).

Published Wednesday January 16, 2002