Two bonus points for Shelford in defeat to Colchester in London League 1N

Shelford started their time in London League 1N with a narrow 25-24 defeat at Colchester.

Alex Long got things off to an ideal start for Shelford with a try after five minutes, with Mike Gillick adding the conversion.

James Crozier’s penalty reduced the arrears for Colchester, but Shelford extended their lead to 12-3 through Charlie Baker’s try.

However, the hosts responded in style to give themselves a 20-12 half-time lead thanks to tries from Brett Cutbush, Crozier and Richie Kaisia, with one conversion from Crozier.

Long got his second try of the match five minutes after half time, but Harvey Skinner dotted down after 55 minutes for Colchester.

Shelford earned two bonus points - one for four tries and one for losing with seven - after Dwayne Iese touched down in the 79th minute and Gillick kicked the conversion.

Shelford are at home to North Walsham this Saturday (September 14).