WESTCLIFF skipper Rob Smith was pleased with his side’s composure after they saw off Colchester 24-12 in London One North.

Westcliff, who have now won their opening two fixtures of the season, had to remain patient in pursuit of victory.

But the way they kept their cool before taking control delighted Smith.

“We had to be patient this week but we were able to remain calm and composed and that was great to see, “said Smith.

“It was a tough day to play and we were knocking on the door for a while before we were able to get in front.

“But we’re a confident group and it’s good that our relegation last season hasn’t changed that.

“We want to do well for this club and we want to get back up, so we’re pleased with the start we’ve made but there’s a long way to go.”

Westcliff opened the scoring with a try from Olly Jones before Smith also went over for a try which Jack Jones converted.

Colchester reacted strongly to the setback and, after a period of pressure, they scored an unconverted try to cut West-cliff’s lead to 12-5.

Colchester then failed to kick a penalty and Westcliff took full advantage when Chris Marsh was sent away into the clear to score an unconverted try which extended his side’s lead.

Marsh soon added another try which Jack Jones converted but a spirited Colchester side bagged the final points of the game with a converted try.

But Westcliff were able to comfortably see out the closing stages and now sit top of the table as just one of two teams to have picked up maximum points in the division this season.

Westcliff will now be looking to make it three wins in a row when they take on Brentwood this weekend.