SOUTHEND Saxons edged closer towards the Regional Two Anglia title with a hard fought 17-10 win at second placed Harlow.

The victory kept Southend 10 points clear at the top with just three games to go.

And Saxons director of rugby Josh Ward was delighted with the determined display.

“I thought we were outstanding in very difficult conditions,” said Ward.

“Harlow are a really good side, they had won their last nine games and we had a real arm wrestle with them at our place back in November.

“We scored three tries in the opening 20 minutes and could have got more.”

But it was a different story after the break.

“In the second half the defence was superb,” said Ward.

“The boys defended like dogs to keep them out and get the win.”

Saxons now need just six more points to make sure of promotion.

However, Ward refuses to look too far ahead.

“The next game is Brentwood and that’s all we’re talking about,” said Ward.

“We have to make sure we prepare right for that one.”

Southend have now won 18 matches in succession