Clacton Rugby Club coach Matt Mahoney is trying to put a brave face on his side’s tough start to the new season.

The Seasiders have found it hard going in London League division three north-east, most recently losing 69-7 at home to Sudbury, on Saturday.

The previous week crippling unavailability issues meant they had to concede their fixture at Old Brentwoods.

It has made for a taxing beginning to the campaign and the situation in terms of key players being absent – either injured or missing for work and personal reasons – looks set to continue.

“There’s a chance this problem might carry on all season and it’s a real pity, after all the excitement of the last couple of years,” said Mahoney.

“We started out with such expectations. But I can’t field a consistent side and I can’t put the team out that got us promoted."