SOUTHEND Saxons stormed to an 11th victory in succession, winning 34-19 at Holt.

The triumph saw Southend move nine points clear of second placed Woodford.

And Saxons director of rugby Josh Ward was delighted with the display and the final score-line.

"We're very pleased," said Ward.

"This is a tough place to come.

"The journey is one part of it and the weather wasn't great but I was really pleased with how we broke them down.

"They're a good side who played really well but when opportunities arose for us, especially in the second half we showed maturity and good game management to get over the line.

"We got a bonus point too so I'm pleased and it's been a good day."

Southend have still not been beaten since the opening day of the season and remain in a strong position to push for the Regional Two Anglia title.

However, Saxons still have one match left to play in 2023 - at home to Thurrock on Saturday.

And Ward is looking forward to facing the in-form T's.

"We've got momentum and so have they," said Ward.

"It's five or six on the bounce for them as well so it's all set up for a big Essex ding dong on Saturday."

Thurrock are currently fifth in the table, 14 points behind Southend, but have been in fine form in recent weeks.

The T's beat Saffron Walden 27-12 at home on Saturday and have now won five matches in succession.

Southend beat Thurrock 35-12 in the reverse fixture back in September but will be expecting a far tougher test this weekend at Warners Bridge.