Hove 36 - 32 Beckenham

Hove had a strong performance against Beckenham but had the worst possible start after Ian Saunders received a yellow card in the 2nd minute. Beckenham raced to a 0-15 lead.

While up to a full complement, Hove were dangerous in attack and drew ahead 17-15 at half-time before Ian Saunders added another one shortly after the break for a 22-15 lead.

A second yellow card, this time for Rupert Phillips, allowed Beckenham to bring it back to 22-27. A Sam Whiting try fifteen minutes from the end edged Hove in front but they conceded a try from 80m out just two minutes later.

With Hove just three points behind, they launched attack after attack. Guy Patton was tackled just short of the line, but the resulting ruck led to a yellow card for Beckenham and a penalty from five. With just two minutes left, Martin MacDonald cut through a gap and got in under the posts to secure the win for Hove.

While the scoreline was close, Hove made it difficult for themselves, conceding the most while down to 14 players. Hove now have a top-of-the-table clash away at Dartfordians next week.