Woodford beat fellow relegation rivals Tabard 26-22 on Saturday to claim their first home win of the season in London 1 North.

Despite Tabard getting on the score sheet first with a penalty, it was Woodford who started the brighter of the two sides and centre Alex Pollock went in under the posts for the first try of the game.

The returning Pete Hyett converted to give Woodford an early 7-3 lead.

Tabard responded well through their forwards and second row Sam Barrow touched down for a try to give Tabard a one-point advantage.

Both teams tried to play expansive rugby despite the difficult conditions and Woodford’s attacking intent was rewarded when Andy Murphy crossed the line.

However, Tabard responded instantly with a score of their own to take a three-point advantage into half-time.

Woodford restored their lead early on in the second period when Niall Moody powered over after strong work by the pack and Hyett added the extras to make it 19-15.

However soon after Tabard full back Elliot Hurrell capitalised on a misplaced pass to break clear and feed flanker Jermain Ijieh, who scored the try.

Woodford still had 20 minutes to regain the ascendancy and after piling the pressure on the Tabard line, the hosts were finally awarded a penalty try. The visitors’ hooker was also sin-binned for deliberately killing the ball.

Tabard went in search of a late score in the final moments of the game but Woodford’s defence held firm to secure an important victory in the battle for survival.

Woodford face a tough test at local rivals Chingford on Saturday.

Chingford's title aspirations took a knock as they were beaten 34-19 by Ruislip.

The defeat leaves Chingford fourth in the table, seven points behind league leaders Westcliff.

Eton Manor's game at Letchworth Garden City was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

Manor host Tabard on Saturday.