PROUD coach Ryan Watkins says his Luctonians side carried out what they were asked despite falling to a 31-3 home defeat to league leaders Caldy.

A Louis Silver first half penalty was all the Mortimer Park side had to show for their efforts as Caldy continued their march to the National League 2 North crown with four tries.

"I'm pretty proud with how the boys played, we caused them problems and did enough to deserve a try," said Watkins.

"It's not just us they are putting those scores past at the moment and they are still to lose a game.

"We did some really good stuff and created some good chances which I think we deserve credit for.

"In and around the maul they used their weight and experience to get points and put the ball into the corners.

"We went toe to toe with them and carried out the things we have worked on in training.

"We didn't sit back and admire how good they were but had a good go at them.

"I'm really proud of the boys."

Luctonians are back in league action this weekend when they travel to fourth place Loughborough Students.

Watkins says that the Students, who narrowly beat Lucs 36-33 earlier in the season, have weaknesses his side can exploit.

He added: "It will be different to Caldy as Loughborough have areas of their game that we can take over from them.

"Against Caldy realistically we only matched them in certain areas.

"However, against Loughborough we have an opportunity at scrum time and I've got a few ideas.

"Looking at the table the bottom eight or nine are in it (the relegation battle) and things can change quite quickly."