HARWICH and Dovercourt Rugby Club coach Shane Manning was delighted with a bonus-point victory after seeing his side beat Stowmarket 48-0.

Sitting second in Eastern Counties League division two, they knew another win was vital to keep the pressure on leaders Colchester thirds.

“I’m happy with a bonus-point win and it was a big improvement on our last game, against Sudbury,” said Manning.

“We scored eight tries through sticking to our structure and also kept Stowmarket score-less, which was just as pleasing.

“The wet conditions made the game closer because handling the ball was tricky.

“Stowmarket wanted to slow the game down but we kept on upping the tempo and trying to play rugby.”

Manning praised his more experienced players, in particular Paul Sewell.

“The senior players are really leading the side well, especially Paul,” said the Harwich coach.

“He really directs the lads well and is always composed when things are getting a bit tough.”

Harwich now have a week off, with the rugby world turning its attention to tomorrow’s World Cup final between New Zealand and Australia.

When they resume their league campaign in a fortnight, they will look to continue their winning ways when they play host to Ipswich YM.

“They are always tough and love confrontation, so we’ll have to match that and make sure we get on top up front,” added Manning.