CANVEY Island sunk to the bottom of the London Three North East table after suffering a 34-5 defeat at home to Sudbury.

The Islanders have now lost their opening two matches of the new campaign.

But coach Steve Murphy is certain his team will soon turn things around.

“I was disappointed with Saturday’s performance but I know we can play better,” said Murphy.

“I am sure the boys will respond at training to put things right.”

Canvey’s big-hitting Charlie Clarke was forced off the field with a shoulder injury to add to the Islanders’ injury troubles.

Canvey then gave Sudbury’s fast running backs too much space and missed tackles enabled the visitors to race into a 24-0 lead at half-time.

Turning round, Canvey tried to up their game and, at times played some good rugby, which resulted in a try from prop Scott Flloyd.

Sudbury then had a player sin-binned after they were repeatedly penalised for killing the ball in rucks to stop Canvey’s momentum.

But, despite their improvements, Canvey could not stop Sudbury scoring two more converted tries to extend their advantage.

Canvey will now be hoping to bounce back when they travel to sixth-placed Beccles on Saturday