RUGBY: Worthing captain Jody Levett's weekly column (April 2)

Once again we started poorly, conceding early penalties, one of which was straight from the kick-off. This was to be a recurring theme throughout the game, where we conceded needless penalties on numerous occasions '“ four of which were for questioning decisions that were already made.

At this stage in the season, with so much at stake and with one point and points difference separating four teams, this is not something we can allow ourselves to become embroiled in.

It would be completely unfair to dismiss Ealing's part in all this. They played with speed, precision and power, which we struggled to contain throughout.

They are always a dangerous side who, if given space, will punish you as their current league position shows. We have always found it hard against them for some reason and, in what was my fifth match against them, we have yet to gain a win.

The first half was littered with mistakes and penalties, which resulted in us failing to gain any pressure or, indeed, continuity.

Although we defended well in parts, it was often on, or even behind, the gain line and eventually the large amount of both possession and territory took its toll and resulted in an Ealing score.

Unfortunately, we then picked up two injuries at almost the same time. This always causes some difficulties as it takes time for players to adjust to new positions and their perhaps different roles and responsibilities.

However, this is no excuse for the lapses in concentration before half-time, which resulted in two quick tries for Ealing.

It was nave and frustrating to concede so close to half-time and only reinforces the need for consistency and concentration for the whole match, not just in parts.

We have always been notoriously bad at this and, this season, it has cost us dearly in several games.

Half-time saw some other changes and a rejuvenated team. We were beginning to play with more confidence and control and now it was Ealing who were penalised. Our set piece of scrum and line-out began to function more effectively too, which enabled us to build pressure for longer periods.

Finally, we were able to break the deadlock of the second half with a well-worked try and conversion, to take us within two scores. Thoughts then moved to the possibility of a bonus point with only 10 minutes remaining. But we had left ourselves too much to do and, as is often the case, while pressing hard we conceded at the death, to take it beyond our reach.

We need to recognise that we cannot give teams a head start and then play catch up, especially against the quality of teams like Ealing.

This week sees a vital must-win match against Havant. Mathematically, a win for us would relegate Havant so we are under no illusions of just how tough the match will be.

They are fighting for their lives and for survival in the National Leagues. There will be a lot of pride at stake as it is a local derby, too. It promises to be a challenge, and one we must win.

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