Old Dunstonian 38 Tunbridge Wells 31

Wells, dogged by the very real threat of relegation were made to look like world beaters as they scored three early tries as a lethargic D's XV milled about, unconcerned by anything so mundane as defending. The lethargy cleared toward half time and Bryant Halls try in addition to Jayden Dallalanas earlier score meant that OD's turned around only 6 points adrift at 15 - 21.

D's looked more focused in the second period, with Hall and Smith not shy of using the wind and their boots to establish territory, with Smart and especially Hawkins outstanding as they harried the Wells lineout and defence. This pair more than any bought to bear the pressure that allowed Smith to kick three second half penalties, more or less the eventual margin of victory. Hawkins sealed a man of the match performance with a second half try and a superb try saving tackle in the bottom corner late in the game. Josh Smith scored the fourth touchdown sealing yet another try bonus.

Outscored 5 tries to 4, the difference in the sides was the kicking of Josh Smith who contributed 18 points with the boot. The Wells report ( http://www.twrfc.com/seniors/1st-xv/match-report ) suggest the visitors were a riot of running rugby, whilst D's were prepared to slow it down and dogged out a fortuitous win. Not really how I saw it (this was the 11th time in 20 games D's have claimed the four try bonus point) though on this display Wells position deep in the mire looks a false one.

OD's remain 5th despite this bonus point win and will now have to secure unlikely bonus point wins from their last two fixtures, away at second placed Brighton and finally champions East Grinstead whilst hoping that other results go their way if they were to snare an surprise play off place. Whatever happens, its unlikely that the side will finish any lower than 5th and that'll represent their best ever league finish. Enjoy tour chaps.