The tone was set early when Harry Brunston read a loose Dartford Valley pass close to their line, stepping in sharply to intercept and touch down for the opening score. From the resulting kick-off, Deal struck again immediately. Max Vere gathered cleanly and surged into Dartford’s 22 before offloading to newcomer Isaac Yuen, who carried the move over the line for Deal’s second try, duly converted by Jonathan.

Dartford Valley responded with a sustained spell of pressure, pinning Deal back on their own line and eventually forcing their way over for their opening try. Any momentum gained was short-lived, however. Straight from the restart, Jonathan spotted space in behind and Seb Mugford reacted quickest, collecting the kick and powering over the line to restore Deal’s advantage.

Deal’s backs then clicked into gear. From the base of a scrum, a slick move created room out wide for Sam Kenicer, who finished confidently down the wing for Deal’s fourth try, converted by William Northcott.

Strong defence on Deal’s own line saw Max Vere turn the ball over and break clear through Dartford’s midfield. That pressure was quickly compounded when newcomer Nathan Obijiaku made an agile, powerful carry from the restart, gaining vital ground and creating the space for William Northcott to cross the line.

Deal weren’t done yet. Isaac Yuen struck again, smartly intercepting a Dartford Valley pass to find himself clear of the defence and racing in unchallenged, with Brandon adding the conversion.

At half-time, Deal held a commanding 41–5 lead.

Dartford Valley opened the second half with renewed intent, their pack applying consistent pressure and eventually crossing for their second try. Deal’s response was immediate and emphatic. Aston finished off a flowing attack to open his scoring, and straight from the restart he powered deep into Dartford’s 22, setting up Nathan Obijiaku to score his first try for Deal.

Moments later, Deal struck once more. Brandon caught the kick-off and ran the length of the pitch to cement his name on the scoresheet, with Kian Meade converting.

The final Deal try came through Jonathan, who polished off a well-worked team move to round out an impressive attacking display. Dartford Valley grabbed a late consolation shortly before the final whistle, but by then the result was beyond doubt.

Final score: Deal & Betteshanger 63 – Dartford Valley 17

Tries: Harry Brunston, Isaac Yuen (2), Seb Mugford, Max Vere, Sam Kenicer, William Northcott, Aston Armstrong, Nathan Obijiaku, Brandon Ashington, Jonathan Mattison

Conversions: Jonathan Mattison, William Northcott, Brandon Ashington, Kian Meade

Man of the match: Max Vere