In appalling conditions Eastbourne 3rd X1 overcame a strong Hastings 3rd X1 and a heavy pitch to progress to semi-finals of Sussex Salver competition. Falling behind to an early Hastings try and conversion by Eastbourne old boy Robbie Simmons, Eastbourne inspired by Gavin Davidson and Jason Howell replied with a try from David Newman following a powerful run. Half time 7-5.

Spurred on by their travelling support and coach Ady Norwood, Eastbourne started 2nd half strongly and were rewarded when Newman burst through again to score, and with George South converting, for a 12-7 lead. Shortly afterwards, sub Richard Allen (known better as PGA Pro golfer) was put through with a neat pass by Jamie Bremer to score in the corner to make it 17-7. Hastings made several substitutions and pressed hard and scored a try to make it a hard and interesting finale. However Eastbourne held on, thanks mainly to

MOM Davidson for a well deserved win.

Team: Gee Hunt, Steve Martin, Richard Barron, Ian Newman, Ross Tippet, Simon Virgo, Jason Howell, Gavin Davidson, Danny Craven (capt), Jamie Bremer, Conor Melluish, David Newman, Peter Newman, George South, Scott Dunstar; sub Richard Allen, sub not used Matt Creasy.