COLCHESTER made a brave attempt to stave off relegation but couldn't avoid defeat and the drop to division four north east.

The reverse fixture in September had seen Westcliff notch a 40-point victory.

This was never likely to be repeated as Colchester simply refused to let the league leaders get the upper hand but lost out 22-10.

The visitors never gave up and at 15-10 down with 20 minutes to go and the wind in their favour an upset looked on the cards.

But with number eight Dowding in the sin bin Colchester started to tire, mistakes crept in and Westcliff were able to dominate possession.

Despite not conceding points in this period the effort told and Westcliff settled the match with a try five minutes from the end.