MISTLEY director of rugby Stephen Betts felt his side missed an opportunity after slipping to defeat against Colchester thirds.

The Furze Hill side have made an indifferent start to the Eastern Counties League division two south season but were hoping to cause an upset against the league leaders, who had won five out of five prior to Saturday’s meeting.

Mistley produced an improved performance but were left to reflect on a 31-19 defeat.

Betts said: “I’m upbeat, despite the result, because in terms of performance it was an improvement from our recent encounters.

“It was a game we could and should have won, but I’m looking forward to the rest of the season because with more training and emphasis on fitness, I believe we can improve in all areas.”

Mistley started the game with some notable absences, due to injury and last-minute call-offs.

With the wind blowing hard on a dark and grey afternoon, Colchester were first to score and, despite Sam Everett’s missed chance on the Colchester try-line, Mistley found themselves 7-0 down.

Two penalties kicked by Matt Course then reduced the deficit to 7-6.

With some excellent forward play, Mistley were able to outscrum Colchester, allowing Moby Turner to score and give his side a 11-7 lead.

Some excellent tackling from Reece Kirkham and newcomer Sam Gallagher, who showed great promise, were try-saving moments but Colchester responded with some fast backs to go back in the lead at 12-11.

Course missed a very difficult penalty just before half-time.

Mistley knew that after their first-half performance, and with a superior scrum, the game was there for the taking and they were playing in their favourite half.

However, two further tries from Colchester, despite the Mistley pack dominating, saw the visitors edge ahead at 24-11.

Mistley did not let their heads drop and, with their scrum in full force, pushed over the line, allowing Adam Kinsmore-Ward to score and reduce the deficit to 24-19.

However, Colchester’s back line responded by scoring to increase their lead to 31-19.

Tomorrow, Mistley’s first team are away to Aldeburgh and Thorpeness, while their second team, the Marauders, are at home to Southwold twos.

Both kick-off at 2.30pm.