Two well-matched teams contested a well fought game, in increasingly difficult conditions, with Seaford narrowly coming out on top right at the death. The early exchanges saw Seaford being awarded three penalties, all of which were nullified as Lewes defended well.
Then Lewes counter-attacked and Harry Handley was put through to score the opening try, only for the referee to stop the game to give a Seaford player a yellow card.
Another Seaford player soon followed his colleague into the “sin-bin”, and Lewes took advantage this to put Dan Carr over in the corner after some slick passing in the backs. Then the Lewes forwards showed what they could do with a thrustful rolling maul that gave Harry Handley the opportunity to touch down and make the score 10-0.
An excellent turnover in midfield led to a good run down the left wing by Harry Handley, but he was well tackled. From the resultant loose play, Lewes managed to sustain a strong attack which gave Lewis Austin a well-taken try. None of the Lewes tries were converted, and this left the half time score at 15-0.
Seaford needed to get back into the game and they came back strongly as the second half began. They forced Lewes to touch down in goal, and when the 22 drop out was too hurriedly executed, Seaford were able to score their opening try which was easily converted.
Lewes were not helped in the second half by the conditions steadily worsening with torrential rain and fading light. They had used their backs well in the first half, but this now grew more difficult, while their hosts were able to use their strong pack to greater effect. Lewes were still very much in the game, though, and were able to mount some strong attacks.
However, the game turned after both sides had a man sent to the sin bin and Lewes’ influential scrum half, Owen Jones had to go off for treatment. Seaford were able to score a converted try that put them within a point of Lewes. As darkness descended, it was Seaford who attacked and gained a penalty on the Lewes 22, which they duly converted to squeeze in as winners by two points.
A disappointing outcome but Lewes captain, Elliot Moule, said “Can’t fault the heart and effort out there in shocking conditions. Thank you to everyone who pulled on a shirt … couldn’t be happier with the lads I’ve got around me.”

Match Squad:
Thomas Rourke, Peter Ford, Harry Hanley, Will Feltham, Lewis Austin, Jordan Whiting, Owen Jones; Rob Williams, Finn Spalding, Sam Wakeley; James Sale; Lewis Evans, Elliot Moule (captain), Joe Omar. Subs (all used): Olly Bowery, Owen Edmonds, Dan Carr.

On Saturday, Lewes 1sts entertain Hellingly, k.o. 2.30pm, preceded by a pre-match Lunch.

Lewes 2nds were at home to Uckfield, going down in atrocious conditions by
12 - 35. See action photos by Danny Simpson here>>