A poor and under strength Hove side provided little resistance to the league champions, Eastbourne who scored with abandon in their final outing at this level. With promotion already secured and in conditions that suited the flowing game, the Blue & Golds managed to score a magnificent 13 tries, all of them from fast handling and speed of thought. Indeed, had it not been for a generous referee who brought the rout to an early conclusion, the score could have reached triple figures.

Every single player from 1 to 15 excelled on the day and skipper Steve Clark summed up the season at the end of the game as "his most enjoyable playing experience ever." The scoreboard moved at such a pace that at times it was bewildering; Ed Sinclair had scored twice within the first 10 minutes of the game and it was only when down 49-0 that Hove managed their only real attacking move of the game and avoided the whitewash. By half time Eastbourne had notched up a staggering 68 points and were hungry for more.

Momentum was maintained in the second half and the linkage between forwards and backs continued to delight spectators. Although an injury had removed Nick King from the field, there was no let up in pace and further scoring continued at regular intervals. By the final whistle there were some remarkable statistics; 13 tries scored; 11 of them converted; no points from penalty kicks.
So for next season, it will be London/SE League 3 and some tougher opposition. Head coach Russ Aitkenhead is determined to prepare the side for the challenges ahead. Fitness and skill will be tested but the evidence from this season would suggest that the club should be optimistic.

Eastbourne tries scored by Smith (3); Sinclair (2); Cousins (2); Pysden; Redman; McKay; Coulthard; Shuttlewoth; Clarke
Conversions Smith (7); Coulthard; McKay; Clarke; Sinclair

Eastbourne Barron, Shuttleworth; Keen; Mottram; Farley; Sinclair; Cousins; Redman; Pysden; McKay; King; Coulthard; Clarke; Smith; Cheater; Imich; Van Bentham; Bettles