After the high of recording their first win of the season last week, it was back to feeling low for Epping Upper Clapton after a 27-22 defeat to Saffron Walden.

Two tries from George Cook and a late consolation from Luke Neat were not enough for Clapton to make it two wins from two.

Walden took the lead early on after they were the first to adapt to the tricky conditions, but Clapton responded through Cook’s converted try before a George Douglass penalty had them further in front.

Cook then took a pass from Joe Mbu to cross under the posts again, with Des Griggs slotting in the conversion.

The visitors relaxed before the break though and Walden closed the gap to two points at the break with another try.

With just 10 minutes of the second half played, Walden went 20-17 in front with their fourth try, and they seemingly put themselves out of reach with a further seven-point score.

Neat responded with seconds remaining to make it 27-22, but it was too little too late.

Next up for Clapton is the visit of fourth-placed Wymondham this Saturday.