Witham Rugby Club were left ruing a nervy start as they reflected on a defeat in a game that skipper Steve Johanson felt they could have won.

In spite of torrential overnight rain, Witham’s pitch was in perfect condition for the first home league match of the season.

However, the visiting Ravens had the bulk of possession for the first 20 minutes and finally turned the pressure into points to open up a 14-0 lead.

Witham rallied and managed to put together numerous phases as they made ground towards the Ravens line, with the backs moving the ball wide and man-of-the-match Adam Scott Mason forcing his way over the line to score.

With renewed confidence, Witham pressurised Ravens into mistakes ans when their pack won a scrum in the Ravens’ 22, fly-half Lee Higham powered through to score a try that he then converted.

It meant the half finished finely balanced at 14-12 to the Ravens.

Witham had to make changes at half-time, though, and in taking a few minutes to adjust allowed the visitors to take advantage as they used their quick wingers to open spaces from which they scored and converted.

Witham battled back and were awarded a penalty that Higham kicked comfortably to bring the score to 21-15.

Knowing a converted try would win it, the home side launched relentless attacks but the Ravens put their bodies on the line to stay ahead. Inevitably an error gave possession to the Ravens winger, who made an impressive run to score and seal the win with only a couple of minutes left.

Witham captain Johanson said: “We could have won this one.

“With experience, we will put away more of the chances we make, but I’m proud of the effort the lads put in.”