Epping Upper Clapton stormed to yet another victory in London 3 Essex with a commanding 47-7 victory over Chelmsford.

The away side were responsible for Clapton’s only loss of this season so far, so they could take nothing for granted in this game, but a young home side performed excellently to record a strong win.

It took until the 23rd minute, but the Chelmsford defence was eventually broken down when Reece Reed probed from a penalty and then, from a follow up scrum, he played in Dan Jones to go over.

Clapton added two further tries before the break to cement their lead, firstly through Cameron Furlong and then through George Douglas after a rapid burst up the touchline.

Reed converted both tries before Chelmsford got on the scoreboard themselves as their full-back completed a fine move to make the score 19-7 at half-time.

Clapton played against a slight wind in the second half, but it made no difference to them and within four minutes of the restart, Reed offloaded for James Hack to run in from halfway.

Three more tries followed for Clapton. Firstly, Adam Ayres finished several phases of attacking play, then Lucas Morretta was rewarded for his hard work at a ruck and, lastly, Douglas added his second of the day with a superb run to finish off the scoring at 47-7.

Five more games remain in the season and East London are now Clapton’s nearest pursuers in the league, 18 points off the top.

Next up is a trip to lowly Canvey Island on Saturday, March 2.