Already at the bare 15 due to illness and injury, they prepared for the match ahead. As if by chance a 'fly pass' by 2 veteran aircraft seemed like a mark of respect to the events yet to unfold on this day.

Within the fist few minutes Steve Trice had received the ball along with the first injury and was off the field. Heads down at the prospect of a near full game with only 14 men didn't last for long as Kirk Williamson sprung into action with great pace securing Deal's first Try. The Second was soon to follow, things were looking good. Canterbury's prop sustained an injury and with no replacement the game went to uncontested scrums. Points and injuries racked up with eventually 4 of our players off the field , James Campling with a hamstring , Matt Downes with a head injury and Arron Hammond who popped his shoulder. Discussions took place and Canterbury allowed 2 of their players to join Deal and Betteshanger for the game, one of which secured 2 trys!

It was a hard fought match with the first half lasting nearly an hour!! but D+B with their dogged determination and stoicism battled until the end. Paul Seaman, a guest player, was the final man to fall. At last the referee called time and the battle ceased.. With players helped off and a depleted medic bag sitting limp on the side lines there was nothing but respect and admiration from the crowd on both sides for the valiant effort from our boys. We lost the match but we won the game of spirit. The true spirit of Rugby.

Report by Pete and Vicky White