Dagenham were edged out 38-31 by high-flying Eton Manor in their Regional Two Anglia clash at Central Park.
And they took some comfort from claiming two vital league bonus points, thanks to scoring four tries and finishing within seven of their rivals.
The visitors took an early lead with a converted try, before Dagenham hit back through full-back Jordan Calverley.
Manor retained possession to run in three quick tries and extend their lead to 26-5, but Ds had the last say of the half when Chris Warner crashed over and Tommy Cameron converted.
Unfortunately, the second half started poorly for the hosts, with a yellow card shown for a high tackle.
Manor capitalised on the advantage to add another try, going 33-12 up, but soon found themselves on the wrong side of the referee with a player of their own sent to the sin bin.
Dagenham began to ramp up the pressure, with powerful carrying from Chris Sery helping set the platform.
Eventually centre Lewis Pruce was able to break the defensive line to score, with Cameron again converting.
The visitors managed to again push ahead when needed, adding another converted try, but this proved their final score of the day.
Dagenham were chasing down the vital fourth try and secured it with Totti Simkus getting over.
The Ds continued to dominate possession and it wasn’t long before captain Nat Farrell ran in another try, with the conversion from Cameron making it 38-31 with five minutes left.
The pressure was beginning to show on the visitors, with another Manor player carded in defence.
And Dagenham ended the game attacking the Manor tryline, but unable to find another score.
Despite the final result, the coaching team were pleased with a gutsy display and two points, with Dagenham travelling to Harlow before hosting Brentwood in their final outing.
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